Historic Sites in Strathaird

"The unconventional design has long been a topic of much debate and discussion. Some people think it's the best place to house our government, others think it's quite frankly ridiculous and would prefer a more traditional looking government building. The design has won awards in the past, but we don't think we're wide of the mark in saying it's something of a marmite structure, having featured in many lists of this nature in years gone by."

"Right over the road from Holyrood Palace is the Scottish Parliament building, a relatively new addition to the city, from where the governing of Scotland takes place. It’s possible to visit the Scottish Parliament, either as part of a guided tour, or you can pop in yourself and see government at work. It’s free to visit, both on a guided tour or self-guided, although you need a ticket (free) if you want to watch a debate in the chamber."

"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."

"Speaking of villages, if you make it to Circus Lane, you should definitely head a little further out of the city centre to Dean Village. This is a wonderfully picturesque oasis that sits in a valley formed by the “Water of Leith”, Edinburgh’s main river. There’s plenty to photograph down here, but certainly the highlights include the colourful houses and the river, as well as the huge 19th century bridge that spans the valley above, transporting traffic across and away, and leaving Dean Village as a place that time seems to have almost forgotten."

"You can’t spend a weekend in Edinburgh and miss out on its prettiest attraction, that of Dean Village. Picturesque and hidden away, Dean Village is well worth a visit on any trip to Edinburgh, even a short one!. First constructed to house mill workers, by the 20th-century, most of the mills of Edinburgh had closed down. Today the village is a quiet slice of the city and a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of busy city life."

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

"Located on the Royal Mile a short distance from the castle, the John Knox House & Scottish Storytelling Centre attraction is a treat for anyone interested in Scotland's rich cultural heritage. It was built in 1470 and is said to be the one time home of the protestant reformer after which it's named. A highlight of a visit is exploring the exhibits and displays related to the Scottish Reformation, a pivotal moment in the country's history."

"The John Knox House dates back to 1470, making it one of the oldest buildings in Edinburgh, as well as the oldest on the Royal Mile. Today, it’s a beautifully maintained museum that showcases the house and those who lived here, with special attention paid to the Scottish Reformation. Although it’s not on every tourist’s trail, those who do their research will be well rewarded with a fascinating trip back through time."

"John Knox House is a fascinating mediaeval building constructed in 1470. It is named after the famous Protestant reformer John Knox, although he actually only lived there for a short period in his life. The house was also home to James Mosman, an ardent supporter of Mary Queen of Scots who was one of the "Queen's Men" who seized Edinburgh Castle in a failed attempt to have her reinstated."

"After all, the picturesque streets and quintessentially Scottish pubs located in the Grassmarket make it a must-see attraction on any Scottish adventure. There, you’ll find vibrant streets matched only by an ever-lively nightlife. This is where locals come to hang out, and where you’ll want to grab dinner, or simply head for some after exploring drinks. Nearby, you’ll also find plenty of historical buildings, including the once famous Magdalen Chapel."

"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."

"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."

"Dean Cemetery was inaugurated in 1846 and belongs to a beautiful hamlet located very near the city centre called Dean Village. It is one of the most remarkable cemeteries in Edinburgh and if it weren’t for the gravestones it could pass as a tranquil park full of trees."

"In the city centre, seek out the Heart of Midlothian for a uniquely Scottish piece of history. The Heart of Midlothian is set in the pavement on the Royal Mile, constructed from coloured granite blocks that form the shape of a heart and cross. This landmark records the position of the 15th century ‘heart’ of the town, the Old Tolbooth."

"Amidst the Tony award-winning musicals, famous shows, high calibre ballets, and musical prodigies are some of the major comedy kingpins. The Edinburgh Playhouse has been host to the likes of Amy Schumer, Louis CK, Jack Whitehall, Jimmy Carr, and Catherine Tate, to name just a few. This former cinema, which was built in the style of The Roxy cinema in New York, has been around since 1929 and makes for the most brilliant of comedy venues due to its sheer size and acoustics."

"EdinburghThe Edinburgh Playhouse has some great shows throughout the year including a great Panto. There are also childrens events in the school holidays and youth drama activities"

"Typically, The Traverse is thought of for its meaty plays and explorative theatre. Within such performances sit an array of expertly produced acts containing some of the best comedic relief in town. From satire and farce to slapstick and dark, sick, and twisted humour, this theatre is a fail-safe spot for getting your well-deserved laughing fix."

"Indian food can be such a delight, and Mumbai Mansion is an excellent place for your BFF date; with its exquisite décor and unique selection of curries it will not disappoint. This is the ideal restaurant, as they  have the traditional Indian cuisine and additionally this place serves yummy cocktails, so you and your BFF can ponder over the selection. So, get ready to post your order on Instagram and make others jealous."

"Tucked away in Edinburgh’s Old Town, the Urbane Art Gallery is one of the most cutting edge spaces in the city. It covers a range of artists and mediums, but the majority of work has a hint of urban delight about it. Visit the gallery’s website."

"The grounds of 17th-century Bonnington House, 10 miles west of Edinburgh, have been lovingly converted by owners and art patrons Robert and Nicky Wilson into a gorgeous, landscaped sculpture park. Meadows and woodland showcase works – many of them specially commissioned – by a clutch of Britain's leading artists, including Antony Gormley, Anish Kapoor, Cornelia Parker and Nathan Coley, anchored by the the vast landscape sculpture Cells of Life by Charles Jencks. A varied events program includes tours every Wednesday at 10.30am."

"The beautiful grounds of a Jacobean manor house have been transformed by an art-loving couple, Robert and Nicky Wilson, into an impressive…"