Mentioned by Lonely Planet Top Choices
Top things to do in Scotland
"Address: City Observatory, 38 Calton Hill, Edinburgh, EH7 5AAWebsite:Collective. Calton Hill is a large hilltop located close to the hustle and bustle of Princes Street where a collection of Edinburgh’s most famous landmarks are situated within a few hundred feet of each other. The hill is included in the UNESCO World Heritage status that’s been awarded to the city which is hardly surprising considering the amount of history you will find there."
"Calton hill is situated beyond the east end of Princes Street and included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Scottish Government’s headquarter base is at St. Andrew’s House on the steep southern slope of the hill. The Scottish Parliament building and many other notable buildings are located at the hill."
"Princes Street Gardens is located in the middle of Edinburgh, right beneath the castle. They used to be the site of the Nor Loch – the North Loch which was drained when the New Town was built in the 1760s. The gardens have a wonderful view of the castle, and it is a great place to stroll or stop for a picnic."
"The gardens serve as a large public park that runs parallel to Princes Street, divided into east and west by the castle’s mound. Before it was the garden grounds, it was the Nor Loch defensive lake. The Nor Loch sat before the castle until the 18th century."
"If weather is good you should take a moment to relax in the green corner of Princes Street Gardens. These beautiful gardens are perfect to take a pic nic or read a book. The people of Edinburgh often visit here to meet friends and take time out."
"Situated in Newhaven, this sloped, Victorian garden overlooks the Firth of Forth into Fife. This spot is perfect for relaxing under the cherry blossoms in the Spring and enjoying the delights of the lovingly maintained park throughout the year. Ray, our Merchandising Assistant, and Laura, our Finance Manager, favour this park for a spot of quietness with a picnic of foodie indulgence."
"Söderberg Bakery Shop, Queensferry St|© stock.tookapic.com/Pexels. Brought to you by the same brainchildren behind the ever so popular Peter’s Yard, Söderberg is yet another Swedish bakery and hip stomping ground. Expect the usual suspects from fantastic crispbread variations and sourdough, but prepare for the odd surprise here and there."
"Mimi's motto is "it's all about the cake", but this delightfully retro cafe also boasts one of the most luxuriant breakfast menus in the capital. The "Belly busting" breakfast menu incorporates local treats such as delicious Crombie's sausages, award-winning Stornoway black pudding and Ramsay of Carluke's bacon, as well as truly delectable homemade bread and deliciously warming porridge with nuts and honey. The pink and black burlesque wall paper complements the decadence of the menu and even after a generously proportioned breakfast you will find it hard to resist their cakes and pastries."
"Mimi’s is one of the most popular spots for a coffee and cake in Edinburgh, and being the Scottish Baker of the Year for 4 years running, it’s understandable. While their breakfast, brunch and lunch menu is hearty and delicious, it’s really the cakes put this warm and welcoming family-run bakery on the list. Find Mimi’s main cafe right by the river in the heart of Leith, or Mimi’s Little Bakehouse in two locations in the Old Town."
"Village Hotel Edinburgh is located just 8 miles and 15 minutes drive time from Edinburgh Airport. It is just 2 miles from Edinburgh city centre and Haymarket railway and 3 miles from Edinburgh Waverley train station. Nearby attractions include Edinburgh Castle - Royal Yacht Britannia and Princes Street - a shopaholics dream location."
"Zen Lifestyle began with a small salon in Bruntsfield, and now operates from three locations in the city including the flagship salon in Hanover Street. Twice awarded the UK Salon of the Year at the British Beauty and Spa Awards this prodigious salon offers over one hundred treatments for men and women. Zen Lifestyle is one of Scotland's most advanced cosmetic medical clinics and has a full range of beauty treatments such as waxing, manicures and pedicures."
"If you’ve visited the National Museum of Scotland, you may be aware of its prestigious Tower Restaurant. It’s the ideal location if you’re looking for somewhere special or romantic to dine and enjoy the best of Scottish seasonal produce. Furthermore, the restaurant has become a popular destination for visiting winemakers."
"Nothing says romance like staring into each others eyes over a hearty steak. Settle into plush leather seating, surrounded by marble accents and dark wood interiors as you sip on stunning wines and indulge in a gorgeous meal at the internationally-renowned Guacho."