Holyroodhouse Castle at night

Too little time, and so much to see

Edinburgh, Midlothian__Edinburghshire, Scotland Central & Stirling

Recommendation added: 06/11/2006 19:47
By: velvet202 (YSUK rating +191)

velvet202 has been thanked 5 times for this contribution

"'There's no one bad bone in the Scottish' so the saying goes, and once you pass the Scottish border, you may well think that it's true. Not only do they seem happy and merry at all times – despite the 300 days or so a year of rainy, cold weather, they also show a great amount of friendliness towards foreigners.

Edinburgh is a typical Scottish city with typical Scottish people – including the well-known Scottish laid-back atmosphere and willingness to make any traveler feel at home. Divided in two halves, the Southern and oldest part of Edinburgh is based around a hill and the Edinburgh Castle. From this end, the Royal Mile stretches to the Northern side of the city, which is built around Holyroodhouse Castle. This part of the city is relatively new with beautiful Georgian style mansions and the classical terraces built around squares, crescents and circuses. Most hotels and B&Bs are located within easy access of the Town Centre, and the prices are fairly low for the excellent standard of the rooms, which usually includes continental breakfast, tea and coffee facilities in the rooms and ensuite bathroom. You will find that most of the owners are older ladies who will all too gladly share one or two stories about the city and its history with you. I was even offered a free sightseeing tour around the city.

In this part of the city, the nearest sight would probably be Holyroodhouse Castle and its gardens around Princess Street. The inner part of the castle is built like a vast upwards spiral and leads to the Royal Apartments and the well-guarded Royal Jewels, also known as the Honours, and the famous Stone of Destiny, which is said to predict your future in your dreams the same night you cast your eyes upon it.

For culturally interested visitors, the National Museum in the Old Town offers excellent exhibitions of Scottish clan culture and one of the greatest collections of Celtic artifacts in Europe. The notorious Mary King's Close can be found within five minutes walk from the museum and can seem quite spooky at night. Set under the ground and built as a vault, it has been the centre of many a haunting story and ghost sighting. For a small fee, visitors can go on a guided tour to learn more about its mysterious history and the misfortune it brings over its inhabitants.

From here it is only a short walk to Carlton Hill and the Edinburgh Observatory as well as Scotland's National Monument, the Acropolis. On one side, the hill offers an impressive view of the city's fantastic skyline. On the other side, you will be able to see across the docks, and on a sunny day you can see as far as Inchkeith, the famous island on Firth, a breathtaking view, which will linger forever in your mind.

Shopping is best done on Cockburn Street, right next to the university, where you will find great bargains and excellent value for money on designer clothes, books, antiques and gifts of all kinds.

Edinburgh is well known for its culinary diversity and Celtic atmosphere. Pubs and restaurants can be found at literally every corner. The probably most worth mentioning one is Dirty Dicks as it offers great live music and excellent fish at very reasonable prices. But this is just one of many. Once you arrive, you will be spoilt for choice.

All in all, Edinburgh is a very diverse city with much to see and to do. The best months to visit is May to September, when the weather is more stable and you can make the most of this beautiful and culturally interesting city."