The highest point in Holyrood Park at 251 meters (823.4 feet), Arthur's Seat is a historic volcano that overlooks the city of Edinburgh from its soaring perch. It is occupied by a historic hill fort and is inhabited by a smattering of animal species, thus deeming it a Site of Special Scientific Interest. On a clear day, one can see for kilometers from the mound across the city, along the coast to East Lothian and out to the Forth to Fife. The volcano, which has been extinct for over 350 million years, is said to derive its name from the legendary King Arthur of Camelot, the 6th-century Arthur of Strathclyde, or be a derivative of the Gaelic ard-na-said, meaning the height of arms.
Steeped in unbridled antiquity, the charming Old Town is that part of Edinburgh where history yet lives in all its glory. The town is home to an arsenal of significant buildings like the St. Gile's Cathedral, the National Museum of Scotland and the Old College; however, its nerve center is the Royal Mile, which cuts through the ancient landscape of the town, straddling many historic monuments on its way. Pervaded by a certain kind of old-world charm, Old Town is where quaint alleys like Cockburn Street overflow with shops full of tie-dye and joss sticks, piercings and indie style, while the St. Mary's area boasts tiny independent designer boutiques. Old Town, together with New Town is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical significance as the oldest part of the Scottish capital.
Next door to the Royal Museum, the stunning Museum of Scotland details the history of the Scottish people. From the beginning of time through the present day, the history of Scotland is explained through galleries and displays in a wonderful, informative exhibition. Wander through the halls and wonder at the fossils, the ancient jewelry and artifacts. Travel back in time to the industrial revolution and the Scottish position in the British Empire. Marvel at the technological advances that have taken Scotland to modernity.
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.
The core of Edinburgh's historic Old Town, the Royal Mile begins at Edinburgh Castle, making its way down the volcanic hill to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along the way are numerous historic icons and modern-day attractions, hidden gems tucked away down narrow closes interlinked with stairways that lead to an underground maze of wonders. From the mysteries of the Real Mary King Close and the panoramic views afforded by the Camera Obscura to the Scottish Whiskey Experience and the Parliament Buildings, both old and new, the Royal Mile encompasses the heritage of Scotland in a single Scots mile. The Royal Mile is actually made up of four successive streets, namely, Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street and Cannongate, lined with restaurants and boutiques that offer regional specialties. Other attractions include the People's Story Museum, St. Giles Cathedral and the Museum of Childhood. A visit to Edinburgh is simply incomplete without a walk down the Royal Mile.
The Scottish National Gallery is home to an extensive collection of paintings, sculpture and artwork that chronicles the history of art, right from the Renaissance to the early years 20th Century. The gallery's collection of Scottish artwork is especially extensive and well-curated. Featured alongside are several notable pieces created by masters like Monet, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Edgar Degas and Rembrandt, as well as several other noteworthy international artists. The neoclassical museum building is a work of art in itself. Admission is usually free, however a fee may apply for access to special exhibitions. As the home of the Scottish national collection of fine art, the Scottish National Gallery grants access to one of the world's foremost fine art collections.
The Kinneil House dates back to the 15th Century and is located within a public park. The tower, from the earlier construction, was remodelled and the existing east wing of the house was built by James Hamilton, 2nd Earl of Arran. After the house was abandoned in 1936, 16th Century paintings were discovered in some of the rooms, These fascinating paintings have now been restored and the house is open to public on certain free days only. For the rest of the year only the exterior of the house can be viewed.
Innis & Gunn Comedy Attic, a comedy club is a hidden gem nestled in the attic of the pub, The Beehive Inn. The club hosts a great line up of stand up comedy by some really talented artists. Visit the venue and you are sure to get into a laughter riot among the regular boisterous crowd. Order some of the finest blends of spirits from their in-house pub and enjoy the night away with some good dose of laughter.
Built in the later half of the 20th Century, Dr. Neils Secret Garden is a result of the hard work of two doctors, namely Dr. Andrew and Dr. Nancy Neil. Located near the Duddingston Kirk, this garden stands on a ground which was considered to be a waste ground with no vehicular access. Due to the passion and efforts of the two doctors, this waste land was converted into a beautiful botanical garden housing various plants and colorful flowers. You can buy the beautiful flowering plants at Dr. Neils Secret Garden while the entry for the same remains is free. Check their website to know more about their tours and bookings.
The highest point in Holyrood Park at 251 meters (823.4 feet), Arthur's Seat is a historic volcano that overlooks the city of Edinburgh from its soaring perch. It is occupied by a historic hill fort and is inhabited by a smattering of animal species, thus deeming it a Site of Special Scientific Interest. On a clear day, one can see for kilometers from the mound across the city, along the coast to East Lothian and out to the Forth to Fife. The volcano, which has been extinct for over 350 million years, is said to derive its name from the legendary King Arthur of Camelot, the 6th-century Arthur of Strathclyde, or be a derivative of the Gaelic ard-na-said, meaning the height of arms.
The so-called new "Scottish boys" of the painting world are favorites of this gallery; artists whose work epitomizes a contemporary and challenging approach to "fine art" using paint as their chosen medium. Set in an area where galleries face stiff competition from one another, this one draws work from a wide range of established and new names. Most work on sale is reasonably priced and sometimes it's possible to pick up a real bargain. Solo and group exhibitions are hosted here and they occasionally feature work from recent graduates. This is always worth a look, or ring for details of current shows.
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.