Enchanting Edinburgh
Edinburgh the capital of Scotland, once called the Athens of the North for being one of the most beautiful cities on Earth or locally as ‘Auld Reekie’ due to it being very smoky as a result of having so many distilleries in the past, is renowned for such architectural beauty, history and of course the birthplace of Sean Connery!
From the Robert Adam designed new town to the historical and quaint old town which includes the famous castle and royal mile down to the palace of Holyroodhouse, (the queens official residence in scotland), arthurs seat, princes street gardens and its shopping mile, Edinburgh truly is a delight. Where else in the world can you shop on a famous thoroughfare, enjoy a centrally located park and have a splendid backdrop of a castle?
Edinburgh is located on the south side of the River Forth Estuary, in the county of Midlothian in central Scotland, also termed the Lothians or Lowland Scotland.
It is a vibrant place, absolutely packed with history. It is ideal for all visitors
In ancient times, Edinburgh was an important trading base, today it is mainly a tourism and financial hub with Standard Life Insurance and Royal Bank of Scotland Headquarters located there. Much regeneration is visible around the old Leith Docks, attracting the likes of a Michelin starred restaurant and up market hotel.
Edinburgh even has its own beach, located east at Portobello for sun worshippers, whenever the sun does arrive!
Things to do in Edinburgh:-
Experience the fantastic array of shops and hotels on Princes Street. All sorts available there. Take in Harvey Nicholls, House of Fraser and the Balmoral & Caledonian Hotels
Take a walk to the castle, enjoy the views and check out the castle gun, called Mons Meg or take guided tour of the old town and explore all the ghostly passageways. Visiting Edinburgh during the last three weeks in August each year for the International Festival is high recommended. There is simply so much to offer in terms of cultural enjoyment, with fabulous art and theatre and of course the world famous Military tattoo.
Walk the shopping streets and enjoy the gastronomic and drinking delights of Edinburgh. Pubs are everywhere! Most of the streets are wide and safe. Local specialties include Whisky (what else?), local beer (Caledonian Brewery), and the local ice cream parlours and fish and chips.
Getting to Edinburgh:-
Easiest way is to fly to Edinburgh airport, which is regularly serviced by most main budget airlines and hiring a car — see prices at Car Hire Edinburgh