Historic Sites in Forth

"Swing by the Scottish Parliament and see a, how shall I say this diplomatically (I made another lame funny!), rather interesting building. Yeah, the design is super offbeat and modern so you will either love it or place a curse upon the man that conceived of the building."

"However, if you visit when they’re not debating, you’re welcome to photograph the debating chamber. As you would expect, this is a popular selfie spot in Edinburgh!. Visit the official Scottish Parliament website for more information and the debating times."

"From Monday to Saturday, you can visit and learn about Scottish Parliament from within its headquarters. Better yet, it’s free!. For opening times, tours and what you can do while visiting, check out the Scottish Parliament website."

"Visiting Dean Village is like taking a step back into time to old Edinburgh. In recent years, this little neighborhood has become a huge draw to photographers and tourists because of just how Instagrammable it is. For the best shot of the beautiful architecture and river, walk over the stone bridge and down besides the river."

"Also in New Town, Dean Village is a former millers village built on the banks of the Water of Leith River. You can go there on foot from the city centre in about 15-20 minutes. You will see, it’s a very surprising place, contrasting greatly with the rest of Edinburgh."

"Find this picturesque view at the bottom of Hawthornbank Lane if you don’t mind climbing down to the edge of the river!"

"Address: 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SRVisitor guide:John Knox House. John Knox’s house in the middle of The Royal Mile is a historic building that was reputedly lived in by the Protestant reformer in the 16th-century. Although Knox only lived in the house for a short time it’s his association with the building that prevented it from being demolished in 1840 when many other derelict buildings were being torn down."

"A stylish contemporary building appended to the 15th-century home of Protestant reformer John Knox, housing materials relating to Scotland’s rich oral culture.43–45 High Street, 556 9579, scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk. Mon–Sat 10am–6pm (also Sun noon–6pm during Aug only). Free entry to SSC; John Knox House £4.25 (£3.75; children £1; under 7s free)."

"Getting to John Knox House : Located on the Royal Mile, the museum is a 6 minute walk from St Christopher’s Inns Edinburgh. Photo credit: David Ross. John Knox (1514-1572) was a Scottish minister, founder of the Scottish Presbyterian Church and leader of the Scottish Reformation."

"To the base of Edinburgh Castle, the flat historic market area and event space is known as Grassmarket and is actually located below the water table. Although in the past, this Edinburgh district was used for executions, today the Grassmarket is Filled with unique and quirky pubs. This spot of the city is perfect if you want to grab a bite to eat, catch up with friends, or simply want to snap some street shots."

"Surrounded by tourist attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum, Greyfriar’s Bobby, Elephant House and being only minutes away from the Royal Mile, this market consists of over 20 stalls offering locally grown and seasonal produce, freshly baked breads, delightful sweets and craftwork made by local craftmakers."

"The site of a cattle market from the 15th century until the start of the 20th century, the Grassmarket has always been a focal point of the Old Town. It was once the city's main place of execution, and over 100..."

"This palace is the royal family's official residence in Scotland but is more famous as the 16th-century home of the ill-fated Mary, Queen of Scots. The highlight of the tour is Mary's Bedchamber, home to the unfortunate queen from 1561 to 1567. It was here that her jealous second husband, Lord Darnley, restrained the pregnant queen while his henchmen murdered her secretary – and favourite – David Rizzio. A plaque in the neighbouring room marks the spot where Rizzio bled to death."

"Onetime haunt of Mary, Queen of Scots, with a long history of gruesome murder, destructive fire, and power-hungry personalities, the…"

"Transport yourself to the Outlander set at Callendar Park & House. Callendar Park & House was used for one of the most well-known Outlander scenes as the Duke of Sandringham’s home."

"Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, New Lanark was home to a social experiment at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. Robert Owen…"

"The plans to construct an iconic city hall in Edinburgh were sparked in 1896 by Andrew Usher, renowned whisky distiller, who promised to fund the project. In 1914, Usher Hall was built by architects Stockdale Harrison and Howard H Thomson, a magnificent and classical beaux-arts-style concert hall which stood in defiance against the Victorian Gothic architecture so commonly found within the city of Edinburgh. Situated on Lothian Road in the west of the capital, Usher Hall is instantly recognizable with its curved walls, geometric precision and intriguing exterior design, featuring famous Scots such as Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns."

"Usher Hall is Edinburgh’s premier concert venue and a must-visit for fans of entertainment and culture. The hall was built in 1914 and features beautiful architecture, including a curved exterior decorated with panels of famous figures such as Sir Walter Scott and Mozart. The hall has historically been used for a variety of events, including concerts, political events, and sporting events."

"At first glance Purslane appears to be a contradiction, offering casual and rustic fine dining. Yet scores of happy customers and a rapidly growing reputation confirm that this commitment to excellent cuisine without the stuffy formality sometimes associated with fine dining is very popular. This delightful Stockbridge restaurant has a laid back and welcoming ambience and no dress code."

"Whether its weekend breakfast, lunch, dinner or just enjoying a delicious glass of champagne, wine or cocktail, the Ship on the Shore's outdoor terrace offers informal, understated excellence, all while enjoying the buzz of Leith. Phone to make a reservation. The Ship on the Shore24-26 Shore, Edinburgh, EH6 6QN. Tel: 0131 555 0409."

"Smart, understated decor sets the scene for the thoughtfully prepared and well-presented seafood dishes on the menu here. You'll find a wide range of fresh seafood and an extensive list of wine and champagne. The reasonable prices and generous portions served from the lunch menu are popular among diners."

"Smart, understated decor sets the scene for the thoughtfully prepared and well-presented seafood dishes on the menu here. You'll find a wide range of fresh seafood and an extensive champagne and wine list. The reasonable prices and generous portions served from the lunch menu are popular among diners."

"This cosy café in Edinburgh’s Southside boasts a wealth of vegan-friendly hot drinks and treats. In fact, most of the menu is vegan, apart from the odd bake here and there, and they do still offer cow’s milk as an option for your tea or coffee. Walk in the door and you will be greeted with a huge display of vegan cakes such as fudge cake, apple tarts, cinnamon rolls, bakewell bakes and much more."

"Found in the ever-popular Grassmarket area of Edinburgh, Pirlous is a Mediterranean eatery and coffee house which serves a mean shakshuka. You can also get avocado on sourdough (with smoked salmon or Greek feta), Scottish oats with a variety of toppings, and a bacon focaccia sandwich - all washed down with local coffee. Photo: Jacob Campbell for Pirlous"

"Once better known as the Caledonian, the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh underwent an extensive renovation to bring it into the Waldorf a few years ago. These upgrades resulted in the hotel winning awards like the Luxury Hotel of the Year and the Spa of the Year, among others, for 2014. Whether you opt for a classic room or a luxury suite with a view of Edinburgh Castle, expect sumptuous linens and muted colours that signify class and elegance."

"The exterior of grande dame Waldorf Astoria - the Caledonian. (Waldorf Astoria - the Caledonian). This historic railway grand dame was first built in 1903 before being swallowed by the Hilton empire, but don’t let that put you off."

"One Spa is part of the luxurious Sheraton Grand Hotel located just off Lothian Road in the center of Edinburgh. As well as a delightful rooftop hydro pool, nineteen meter infinity swimming pool, rainforest showers, and rock and bio saunas, the Spa includes a unique thermal suite which features treatments inspired by the ancient Celts and Romans – such as the Laconium (dry heat treatment room) and Tepidarium (warm room) and the deliciously scented Aroma Grotto. They have a well-equipped gym with a selection of classes including Yoga, Zumba, Boxing, LiveStrong Cycling and high intensity circuit training."

"One Spa is part of the luxurious Sheraton Grand Hotel located just off Lothian Road on Festival Square. Escape the busy city life, throw your worries and cares aside for the day to contrate purely on yourself, and enjoy Scotland’s most renowned urban thermal spa experience. Their facilities are second to none and have everything you need to re-energise your body and soul."

"Unwind in a stylish and modern setting with the Sheraton Hotel’s One Spa. There are 5 different steam rooms, a 19m swimming pool as well as the Ultimate hydro rooftop pool offering the most luxurious hotel spa experience in the heart of Edinburgh. There's also an amazing selection of sauna and thermal rooms, all stimulating the senses with scent, sight, heat and steam."