Fun Activities for The Scottish Capital

Did you know that Edinburgh is the most popular city to visit in Britain after London? Located in eastern Scotland on the Firth of Forth, it is the Scottish capital, center of finance, education and law in the north, as well as a major tourist draw. It’s not the largest city in Scotland, but there are lots of things to see and do – you could spend weeks here and not do it all! Here are our top picks you should see or do while there:

1. Walk The Royal Mile

Walk the Royal Mile (or at least a wee bit of it). It’s busy but exciting. Watch for the Museum of Edinburgh where you can experience fascinating tidbits of Edinburgh history – including the fictional history depicted in the popular series “Outlander” (scenes were filmed at the museum).

For a trip down memory lane, visit the Museum of Childhood. It is free of charge but requires a side trip from the Royal Mile.

Like to shop? If you walked only part of the Royal Mile, you would have numerous opportunities to shop for crafts, woolens and whisky*. There is the Stockbridge Markets on Sundays, but during the week there are small boutiques, galleries, jewelers and cafes to check out. There are many other outdoor markets other than the Sunday one as well. For high end and designer goods, it has to be the Multrees Walk.

*Whisky in Scotland and Canada; whiskey in the USA.

The Royal Mile with busy pedestrians

2. A Faithful Dog and a Castle

After you have seen Greyfriars Bobby’s drinking bowl at the Museum of Edinburgh, you must see the monument to this faithful companion. It is near the George IV bridge. Your best bet to see scattered monuments and sights is a private tour with a driver. Then if you wish to return later to explore an interesting spot in depth or pop off and rejoin the tour later, you can. You’ll receive entertaining details and learn everything about these gems.

You won’t want to miss Edinburgh Castle . It dominates the city’s skyline. On your tour of the castle, you will see where Queen Mary lowered her baby in a basket, peer over the walls at the pets’ graveyard, and perhaps experience an afternoon tea. You can spend hours at the castle!

Edinburgh Castle from below

3. Gardens and Ghosts

If you love gardens, you are in luck! take your pick. Princes Street Gardens, located in the valley below Edinburgh Castle, provides a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of the city. You can stroll along the paths, admire the statues and plants – including a floral clock – or relax on a bench or at an outdoor café.
If you prefer smaller gardens, visit Dunbar’s Close Garden, located off the Royal Mile. This garden features a formal layout in 17th century style.

When the sun goes down on all this beautiful greenery,  embark on a ghost walk of the old city. There are various walks to choose from but if you are looking fora truly eerie experience, make sure your tour includes the subterranean vaults.

A small section of Princes Street Gardens

4. Lunch (Hearty Meal)

Haggis (pudding of a sheep’s vital organs mixed with oatmeal, onions, suet and spices traditionally cooked in a sheep’s stomach) is a dish you should consider trying but if your interest in historical cuisine won’t take you that far (seriously, it is delicious),  pop into a pub or cafe for a Scottish meal of neeps and tatties (mashed turnips and potatoes), cullen skink (smoked haddock chowder), or bangers and mash (sausages and mashed potato) and wash it down with a glass or two of whisky or local beer or ale.

For “extra” fun, lunch at the Elephant House where it is rumored many of the early Harry Potter books were written.

A tradition – Haggis, neeps, tatties and whisky

5. Events Galore

No matter what time of year you wish to visit, there is sure to be a festival. The more well-known ones are the Fringe Festival, and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo , held at the Castle grounds in August each year. Checking up on what special events are happening in the city long before you are to visit is a wise move, especially for events such as the tattoo which sell out months in advance.

Also, searching the events held at the Palace of Holyrood House is an option, especially if you are traveling with children.

The Tattoo at the Castle

Images courtesy of Adobe Stock, Bigstock and Pixabay. Originally published at April Powers Travel.