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.
Perched at the craggy edge of Castle Rock, the world-renowned Edinburgh Castle, with its brooding grey fortification, was once the military centerpiece of the British army in Scotland. Along with fulfilling its duties as a wartime fortress, it was also the residence of King Malcolm Canmore and Queen Margaret in the 11th Century. Within its dark grey walls and even beyond them, the Edinburgh Castle is home to some of the most marvelous relics of Scottish history, meriting it one of the most popular paid-attractions in the world. The oldest monument atop the volcanic Castle Rock promontory is St Margaret's Chapel, beside which Mons Meg, a colossal siege gun dating back to the 15th Century stands in historic pride. At the heart of the castle's main complex, one can almost hear the deafening silence of the Great Hall, the erstwhile site for several royal ceremonies and the place of congregation for the Scottish Parliament. A little further toward the east, the Royal Palace proudly displays the sparkling crown jewels and the Stone of Destiny. Together with its remarkable past and beautifully preserved elements of history, both Castle Rock and the Edinburgh Castle form solid units of Scotland's royal and political heritage.
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.
Conspiracies, plots and other dramatic turns in Scottish history were the scenes played out at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Established as the monarchical residence for the kings and queens of Scots more than six centuries ago, it is now the Queen's formal residence in Scotland. Built on the ruins of a medieval abbey, this elegant, quadrangular complex was built in the 16th Century with added extensions in the following century. Intriguing stories abound in its state apartments that give a glimpse into the life of its famous residents like Mary, Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie and George IV. The Great Gallery displays fascinating exhibitions from the Royal Collection, while the expansive, beautiful gardens add further charm to this regal castle.
Tales of ghosts and unexplained happenings make this underground Close a popular tourist attraction. Shrouded in tales of murder, plague, and ghosts, the 17th-century Close is now commercially operated with guided tours. Informative tours of the Close are given by 17th-century characters such as The Merchant, The Maid, The Poet, and more. The dark corridors and underground alleyways immerse visitors in an authentic, frightening atmosphere as they learn the secrets of the infamous Mary King's Close.
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.
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.
Belmond Royal Scotsman is a luxury train service that runs from Edinburgh. Started in 1985, the train has a royal setting and is equipped with state of the art facilities. It is equipped with a spa and a restaurant which serves delectable regional cuisine. You can make your own itinerary and chose the routes you wish to travel through. The train goes through highlands and stops at major cities and landmarks. You can witness the notable architecture of London's castles through this ride.
Take a pleasant cruise from South Queensferry or Aberdour to this unspoiled island, situated in the middle of the estuary north of Edinburgh. The Augustinian abbey was built by Alexander I in the 12th Century and is one of the best-preserved monastic structures in Scotland. You are guaranteed to see seals on the trip, as well as seabirds such as cormorants and puffins. If you fancy spicing up the journey, specialty cruises are available, including a jazz night and a traditional Scottish folk evening trip. Sailings are on most days from Easter to October.
Consecrated in 1718, the Old Calton Cemetery, as called the Old Calton Burial Ground, is a final resting place of many prominent citizens. Located on Calton Hill, about 4.2 miles (6.75 kilometers) from downtown Edinburgh, it is managed by the Municipal Council. A somber, peaceful and beautiful site, it features many monuments, mausoleums and family vaults built to commemorate great individuals like David Hume, Charles Mackay and Sir John Steell.
North Berwick Lifeboat station can be found close to the harbor on the lively Victoria Road. Originally constructed in the year 1860, North Berwick Lifeboat Station served as a prominent attraction on the scenic seafront, owing to its arresting white and blue exteriors. In its entire life, this lifeboat station has been home to eleven lifeboats apart from being put to use as a cafe. Presently, North Berwick Lifeboat Station features Evelyn M, christened after Evelyn Murdoch. Murdoch's charitable trust commissioned the lifeboat vessel's construction. It also houses IB1 inshore lifeboat and D-758. The boat house remains open for public visits on Sundays and Wednesdays, at 10.30a and 6.30p respectively.
Established in 2004, Stewart Brewing is renowned for producing premium Scottish beer, which is hand-crafted. The brewery offers visitors a tour in which they gain insight into the award-winning craft beers. One of the unique facilities provided by this brewery is the brew-it-yourself Craft Beer Kitchen. Moreover, Stewart Brewing also has facilities for BBQ and private events.