Mentioned by Where Goes Rose?
32 Fun Free Things To Do in Edinburgh For A First Visit
"You won’t have any trouble finding this wee gem of a museum, as the highly photo-worthy yellow façade is difficult to miss. The museum sits in the heart of the Old Town, in a 16th century building called Huntly House, complete with creaky floorboards and classic wooden roof beams. The array of exhibits brings together the many stories which shape and define Edinburgh’s unique history and character, with tales of Greyfriars Bobby, the Flodden Wall, “Gardy Loo”, and Sir Walter Scott."
"Housed in the historic Cannongate Tolbooth, the People's Story Museum tells the story of the people of Edinburgh from the late 18th century to the present day. The three galleries explore life in an Edinburgh tenement during the eighteenth century and recount the stories of Edinburgh citizens during the twentieth century using waxworks, recorded oral histories and written sources. The museum also houses an impressive number of early reform flags and banners in support of political reform, trade unions and the anti-apartheid movement."
"The People’s Story offers a look at a different side of Edinburgh’s history, focussing on the lives of the everyday citizens."
"Dating back to 1726—although arguably operating since 1505—Edinburgh University’s medical school is the oldest in Britain, and one of the oldest in the Western world. The Surgeons' Hall Museums offer a particularly fascinating, if macabre, slice of the city's history. Particular oddities include a pocketbook made from the skin of William Burke, one half of the infamous Burke and Hare duo who, in the early 19th century, murdered some 16 people in order to reap the monetary rewards of delivering a cadaver to Edinburgh University for dissection."
"The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh was founded in 1505 and the city has been an important location for medical research ever since. The museum here was originally designed as a teaching museum for students, but it first opened to the public in 1832. There's a history of surgery, a dental collection, and a fascinating collection of pathological anatomy."
"Surgeon’s Hall Museum Geared towards adults, older kids, and anyone with an interest in the medical field, this is a fascinating look into what can go wrong inside of our bodies. The Wohl Pathology Museum is home to one of the largest collections of pathological specimens in the world. It’s a bit gruesome, but for some that may be the appeal."
"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."
"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."
"The John Knox House dates back to 1470 and it is associated with the Scottish Reformation. Even though the name-giver John Knox only lived in the house for a brief period in the 16th century, his association with the house stuck throughout the…"
"The 15th century buildings are tucked away in the east corner of the city, on the edge of Auchinlea Park. A category A-listed building probably isn't what you'd expect from the neighbourhood, and it's a pleasant, and beautiful surprise."
"The Physicians' Gallery is a free public exhibition space which is part of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh. Our exhibitions are based on the wealth of historical medical material which the College has collected over the last 300 years. ‘Moonstruck: 500 years of mental health’ is our new free exhibition– opening on 14 June 2019 and running until Spring 2020"
"Set within the walls of historic Edinburgh Castle the National War Museum explores the history of Scotland at war. During the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, the Scottish Highlander was viewed with suspicion and fear by the British state and even by many lowland Scots. In time the image of the Highland soldier became a central icon of Scottish identity, and Scots enlisted in the Armed forces in huge numbers."
"The National War Museum of Scotland explores 400 years of military actions and the country at war. This museum is very interesting thanks to its location."
"Wimbledon champion Andy Murray is returning to his roots with a new luxury hotel venture near his home town in Perthshire, Scotland. The hotel, on an expansive Scottish woodland estate, is currently undergoing refurbishment and will reopen on 1st April 2014 in time for the nearby Ryder Cup in September 2014. A five-star facility with ten spacious bedrooms and five suites, the hotel will also include a private chapel, several function rooms, restaurant run by Albert Roux OBE, KFO and, of course, a tennis court and practice wall."
"If you don’t know the story of the best wee dug in Scotland, then ask while you’re getting your round in this traditional Celtic pub. It’s one of the most historic and best Edinburgh pubs and an excellent stop on any stag night. Greyfriars specialises in cask ales, gins, and whiskies, but also offers hearty pub food."
"Snap a photo of Greyfriars Bobby. This dog became known in the 19th century for spending 14 years guarding the grave of his owner until he passed away himself in 1872."
"Highlights of the Ting Thai menu (and there are many) include succulent marinated chicken dish gai cha plu and the nam tok nua, a fresh, spicy take on the traditional Thai beef salad. Although it’s the same menu throughout the day, prices and portions go up slightly at night, so expect to pay anything from £4 to £9 as the day progresses."
"Now with two restaurants in Edinburgh, the Thai inspired eatery has been running both delivery and collection services during lockdown. With a host of asian dishes on offer from light bites to curries, the most popular unsurprisingly is the 'Pad Thai', according to Deliveroo."
"This lively, unpretentious place started as a pop-up and retains its no-frills vibe with no bookings and cash-only payments. The food, served in steaming cardboard boxes at crammed communal tables, is exceptional... Scottish in Old Town"
"We love taking fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and turning them into delicious dishes, offering a modern or traditional take on Scottish cuisine. Our seafood comes from the west coast of Scotland and we use local…"
"Covid-19 alert: Currently closed and focussing on cookies and cake to order. Opening a new café in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic was always going to be a risky gambit, but the folks behind Grams seemed to have pulled it off with their latest venture: Plant Bae. With Grams now moving to Stockbridge, Plant Bae has settled into its big brother’s old digs opposite Haymarket Station."
"What:Monteiths is another restaurant nestled away down the backstreets of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Head down a tunnel made of twigs and decorated with fairy lights to find the restaurant’s small courtyard area. Here you can tuck into hearty Scottish dishes including hand dived scallops and a venison Scotch egg while sitting under the stars – the ideal setting for a romantic meal out.Where: 61 High Street, EH1 1SR"
"Tucked away down one of the Royal Mile’s atmospheric closes lies Monteiths – a boutique cocktail bar & restaurant. We’re sure you’ll be drawn in by their intriguing archway of twigs and twinkly lights, which add to the cosy and intimate setting of the restaurant. A favourite of locals and visitors alike, Monteiths is a must for relaxed dining and innovative cocktails."