Formerly the Birds of Prey Center, Falconry Scotland continues to introduce the public to the power, agility and beauty of these awesome predators. Get face to face with eagles, kestrels and owls - there are 30 different species of bird to view and aerial displays daily. If you get hooked by these talon-ed raptors, there is the chance to handle the birds yourself, enjoy a quick introduction, go on a Hawk Walk and then take the plunge into the art of falconry. Once you have mastered the falconer's knot, some basic handling and the essential flying techniques, the sky is the limit. The center also organizes falconry holidays. Demonstrations and handling sessions are available on a pre-booked basis only, please telephone the center to discuss your needs and their current rates.
Founded in 1670 as a medicinal garden, Edinburgh's Royal Botanic Garden today sprawls across acres and acres and is both, beautiful and educational. This iridescent garden houses an evocative display of cycads (plants from the dinosaur era) and Britain's tallest Palm house, and in the rock garden, there are marsh orchids, campanulas and lilies. The Pringle Chinese Collection houses an unrivaled assembly of wild-origin Chinese plants that grow in a wild water ravine, while the teeming herbarium is where hundreds of thousands of preserved botanic specimens reside in complete harmony. Strewn across the garden's expanse are gorgeous alpine flowers, a beautiful lawn of azaleas, peat walls, a fernery, delightful tropical houses, the lovely, glass-topped Palm House and the 18th-century Inverleith House sheltering myriad exhibits and artworks. A sprawling green oasis speckled with tufts and tinges of vibrant colors, the Royal Botanic Garden is a striking nexus of education, conservation and unabashed natural beauty.
After 44 years of loyal service, this yacht now bobs in serene retirement in Leith. Christened by Her Majesty the Queen in the year of her coronation, it was the last in a series of ships used by monarchs on trips abroad. You will receive a warm welcome at Britannia's Visitor Centre. Here you will discover Britannia's past through exhibits, and photographs before collecting your audio handset and stepping on board. The self-led audio tour will enable you to enjoy the Yacht's five decks. Starting at the Bridge and finishing at the Engine Room, you can discover the reality behind life and work onboard. Highlights include the State Dining Room, the Queen's Bedroom and Crew's Quarters.
All the old favorites are here: Asiatic lions, South American monkeys, zebras, funky little marmosets and tamarins - this is a sure-fire hit for children and adults alike. The jewel in Edinburgh Zoo's crown has to be the penguins, who make a regular parade outside their enclosure when weather permits. Or they can be viewed swimming underwater in the world's biggest penguin pool. You can also arrange to handle the smaller animals (such as snails, rats and snakes) or to take a safari ride in an open-sided trailer. Take the opportunity to meet some of the keepers and learn about the more exotic and endangered inhabitants here. There's a great little gift shop with lots of affordable goodies, and a handy coffee shop/restaurant.
Mercat Tours specialize in Gothic walks around the Old Town - let your imagination run wild as you explore the historical underground city and medieval winds. Tour guides are university-trained historians with a flair for dramatic presentation, and you should be prepared for the unexpected. Tours include the highly spooky Hidden Underground Vaults, Royal Mile Walk and Ghosts & Ghouls. All tours start from the Mercat Cross on the Royal Mile next to St Giles Cathedral.
This child-friendly attraction is billed as "a breath of the countryside in the heart of the city." There is a pet lodge and loads of friendly farm animals for you to meet including goats, ponies, poultry, rabbits, sheep and tortoises. Children can enjoy the play areas and the educational Discovery Center. There is also the chance to have a go at woodworking, spinning, weaving and pottery in the workshops at Gorgie City Farm. There are even vegetable, herb and wildlife gardens to explore too!
Brilliance of education shines bright at the Edinburgh College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine. This illustrious college is affiliated to the University of Edinburgh. Touted to be the one of the most meritorious medical colleges of the world, the institute is also respected for its contribution to the arena of medical research. The alumni and faculty members have been associated with the Nobel Prize with the institute boasting of 6 Nobel Prize winners. This meritorious medical school has produced many Prime Ministerial candidates and senators. Check website to know about admissions and schedules.
Formerly St Andrew's Church, this temple also serves as a general community center for Hindus; Diwali and all other Hindu festivals are celebrated here, and it is hoped that a permanent center of arts and culture will be established on the premises in the years to come. Meanwhile, other arts activities, such as traditional dancing, are already held here.
Formerly the Birds of Prey Center, Falconry Scotland continues to introduce the public to the power, agility and beauty of these awesome predators. Get face to face with eagles, kestrels and owls - there are 30 different species of bird to view and aerial displays daily. If you get hooked by these talon-ed raptors, there is the chance to handle the birds yourself, enjoy a quick introduction, go on a Hawk Walk and then take the plunge into the art of falconry. Once you have mastered the falconer's knot, some basic handling and the essential flying techniques, the sky is the limit. The center also organizes falconry holidays. Demonstrations and handling sessions are available on a pre-booked basis only, please telephone the center to discuss your needs and their current rates.
Known to be one of the largest burgh churches in Scotland, the St Michael's Parish Church is awe inspiring in its architecture. The church is also known to be one of the oldest establishments in the city, constructed in the year 1424. The place is dedicated to the patron saint of the city, Saint Michael. It holds regular prayer services and conducts events and concerts with the aim of promoting the name of God. The church is open to public only on select days, so check the website before you plan a visit.
Scottish Poetry Library has been operating since 1984 and is nestled in the award-winning premises. It is intended to promote the presence of Scottish poetry and also the reading and writing of poetry in the country, part from bringing poetry lovers together. It houses over 40,000 poetry, literary journals, CDs, videos and Braille collection. You can indulge in this poetic affair with the free borrower's card. Do check the website for more.
Religious aura shines bright at the Crichton Collegiate Church. This 14th century church is located in the Crichton hamlet of Midlothian in Scotland. Built originally in the Gothic style of architecture with borrowed elements from the Romanesque style, the church was reconstructed in the 16th century. The renovation work continued till the 19th century post which the church was fully functional. The stonework building is beautified with stained glass windows and flanked with a green churchyard. Check website for more information.