Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Standburn

"Edinburgh's Camera Obscura (meaning "dark room") is a fascinating and delightful way to take advantage of the wonderful views of the city from Castle Hill. Located immediately beside Edinburgh Castle, this intriguing attraction is housed in a Victorian rooftop chamber at the apex of the Outlook Tower. Inside this mysterious room you can see moving images of Edinburgh's panorama projected onto the walls by the giant periscope."

"A fascinating must-visit place for kids and elders which uses science optical principles into play is Camera Obscura and World of Illusions. Located on the Royal Mile next to the Edinburgh Castle, is a perfect stop for fun. Camera Obscura originates from a Latin word meaning ‘dark room’."

"Boasting gorgeous views, Calton Hill’s central location makes it a popular spot for those wishing to take in the entire city in all its beauty. On top of the hill you’ll find the Nelson Monument and the National Monument, an unfinished acropolis that is better known under its local nickname ‘Edinburgh’s disgrace.’ It may be seen as a failure in architectural endeavours, but it is still a popular place to get some fantastic photos."

"Situated at the east end of Princes Street sits Calton Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For sweeping city views from practically any spot, this is your place. Consider this sanctuary the perfect Kodak moment location for stunning views — and free of charge."

"If you are not ready for the summit of Arthur’seat you could see Calton hill. It’s a perfect place to take photos of Edinburgh. On top of the hill you can also visit Nelson's monument and the National monument."

"If you don’t want to venture too far out of the city, kids can also play in Prince’s Street Gardens in the shadow of the Scott monument – which you can climb, although at 287 often narrow and twisty steps, you might want to stick to the views from the Camera Obscura instead. At Christmas, the gardens turn into a Winter Wonderland including Christmas market, ice rink and ferris wheel, dubbed the Edinburgh Eye."

"Nestled below the castle is this charming, flora-filled park, which features walking paths as well as the Scott Monument and the Ross Fountain. The Ross Bandstand plays home to assorted concerts and special events, including during Edinburgh’s legendary hogmanay, or New Year’s Eve, celebrations as well as a Christmas Market and ‘winter wonderland’ in the lead-up to Christmas."

"These beautiful gardens lie in a valley that was once occupied by the Nor’ Loch (North Loch), a boggy depression that was drained in the early 19th century. At the gate beside The Mound is the Floral Clock, a working clock laid out in flowers; it was first created in 1903 and the design changes every year."

"Beautiful rose gardens and a children’s farm are just some of the highlights of Tollcross Park. Located in the Tollcross neighbourhood of Glasgow, this city retreat is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Amenities include picnic benches, toilets, and a children’s play area (kids 12 and under)."

"Another great pick if you have kids, this park has a farm with goats and sheep. If they get close enough, your kids can feed and pet them. The park also has an official nature walk, where you might be lucky enough to spot bats and foxes."

"Cramond Island: This pretty tidal island is located an hour or so from Edinburgh’s Waverly Bridge by bus. Purchase some picnic essentials, grab a book and hop on a bus on a sunny day to make the most of this short day trip from Edinburgh. Nearby, there are coastal paths to follow and history to uncover; the most important Roman statue ever found in Scotland, the Cramond Lioness was uncovered in the estuary near Cramond Island!"

"The lunch menu at Bell’s Diner has barely changed in 40 years, but why change a winning formula?. This cute little diner on the corner of St Stephen Street has been serving up gourmet burgers long before the likes of Byron got in on the act. Its steaks are also excellent and come with a choice of five sauces (go for the garlic butter), while the large hot fudge sundae pancakes are legendary in these parts."

"Hollywood Bowl Glasgow Coatbridge, Showcase Leisure Park, Barrbridge Rd, Coatbridge, Glasgow, G69 7TZ. Things to do at Hollywood Bowl Glasgow Coatbridge review. Grab the family and go bowling at Hollywood Bowl Glasgow Coatbridge."

"Well, if you’re in need of sustenance to quell your rumbling tummy, then check out Hotel du Vin and Bistro. They serve a fabulous Sunday Brunch between 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm, where you can partake in some amazing soup, as well as a saliva-inducing, fresh market table where you can help yourself to an assortment of delectable brunch items (if you’re not here on a Sunday, they serve lunch between 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm. I ordered the French style pizza with roasted Mediterranean vegetables. Yum)."

"The Pop Up Geeks offers a different theme every three months|© SJS Photography. If you’ve ever wanted to step into a scene from Game of Thrones, Stranger Things or The Walking Dead, visit The Pop Up Geeks. Every three months, this micro-bar in the arches of Waverley Station reinvents itself around a different pop-culture theme – complete with a food menu and cocktails to match."

"A post shared by The Pop up Geeks (@thepopupgeeks) on Jul 31, 2020 at 12:44pm PDT. Passionate about all things geeky, the Pop Up Geeks have become one of Edinburgh's hippest night spots. They create unique and immersive experiences based on popular films and TV shows."

"One of two places on this list that I haven’t made it to yet, but it’s worthy of a mention!. Now a permanent fixture along from Waverley train station, Pop Up Geeks changes its theme every few months. At the moment, it’s on a Star Wars theme until March!"

"If you don’t want to venture too far out of the city, kids can also play in Prince’s Street Gardens in the shadow of the Scott monument – which you can climb, although at 287 often narrow and twisty steps, you might want to stick to the views from the Camera Obscura instead. At Christmas, the gardens turn into a Winter Wonderland including Christmas market, ice rink and ferris wheel, dubbed the Edinburgh Eye."

"Nestled below the castle is this charming, flora-filled park, which features walking paths as well as the Scott Monument and the Ross Fountain. The Ross Bandstand plays home to assorted concerts and special events, including during Edinburgh’s legendary hogmanay, or New Year’s Eve, celebrations as well as a Christmas Market and ‘winter wonderland’ in the lead-up to Christmas."

"These beautiful gardens lie in a valley that was once occupied by the Nor’ Loch (North Loch), a boggy depression that was drained in the early 19th century. At the gate beside The Mound is the Floral Clock, a working clock laid out in flowers; it was first created in 1903 and the design changes every year."

"I suggest a late lunch after you explore the charming, cobbled streets of this historic area and experience some street performers, Canongate Kirkyard (Adam Smith is buried here), Dunbar Close, St. Giles Cathedral, and eventually Edinburgh Castle itself, all the way at the top of the Royal Mile (Be sure to book your Edinburgh Castle skip the line tickets in advance). The charm and beauty of Edinburgh, Scotland never cease to amaze me."