Mentioned by If you only have a day
If you only have a day
"This wacky world of illusions is definitely a fun one – and not something you’d expect to be visiting when you think of “attractions in Edinburgh”. Nonetheless, it’s a great way to entertain the kids – and the adults, too!. The interactive exhibits allow you to fully engage, and the introductory session is a great way to learn a little bit about the science of light and images!"
"On Castle Hill, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions offers five floors of interactive hands-on optical illusions, tricks and fun things to do including vortex tunnel, mirror maze and shrinking room. Tickets are £12.15 for children and £15.75 for adults."
"Swap noses and heads, walk through a tunnel of never-ending stars and capture your own shadow on camera. Free rooftop telescopes. Enter a world of illusions where seeing is definitely not believing!"
"Originally known as Caltoun or Caldoun Hill, Calton Hill offers one of the best and most iconic views of the city of Edinburgh. Granted to the people of Edinburgh by James II in 1456, the hill is now home to a bewildering number of buildings and monuments including the National Monument (an unfinished folly resembling the front of the Parthenon which is dedicated to those who died in the Napoleonic wars), Nelson's Monument (housing a time-ball mechanism by which ships used to set their chronometers), the Dugald Stewart Monument (a beautiful circular temple of nine columns dedicated to the Scottish philosopher), the Political Martyrs Monument, and the City Observatory (to name only a few). Recommended for Parks because: Calton Hill is home to some of the most famous Edinburgh monuments and offers some of the best views of the city."
"If Arthur’s Seat wasn’t enough altitude and you fancy another panoramic view of the city, Calton Hill is a lovely walk with excellent views – and much easier on the legs and lungs. It’s located quite close to the downtown area and it’s home to some of the best sunsets in Edinburgh – if you can catch it on a clear enough night, granted."
"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."
"Henry's Cellar Bar is perhaps best associated with jazz and blues but is actually home to a much wider variety of musical styles. It is one of the capital's lower-cost venues and only has a small stage and fairly basic décor so it is less likely to host the big-name acts you would find at other venues. However, this fact is easily balanced by the intimate friendly atmosphere, the reasonable cost of drinks and the much more eclectic range of acts that perform here."
"Joseph Pearce's Bar and Kitchen on Leith Walk has been open since 1898.Today it is a welcoming cosy spot described as a "family haven". They serve Swedish-inspired brunch, lunch and dinner and is ideal for casual dining, a refreshing drink stop, or coffee and cake with the youngsters. The elevated section of the bar is child-friendly during the day and they also have an outside terrace where you can sit on a warm day."
"A breath of Scandinavia in Edinburgh, Joseph Pearce’s is relaxed, cozy, stylish, and intimate. White walls and cream-colored wrought iron frame space, which is split between two levels and bordered by comfy booths with cheerful throw pillows. The bar serves your usual draught beer, of course, but there’s also a unique selection of Swedish ciders and aquavit cocktails—both of which you should make your priority here."
"Take one traditional nicotine-stained boozer much patronised by the middle-aged-gent-afternoon-drinking sector. Give it a fresh lick of paint, some quirky fittings and a Scandinavian-style bar menu. Provide a welcoming space for children during the day."
"After the redevelopment of the National Museum, two new collection buildings have also been added to the storage and conservation centre at Granton. From vintage motorbikes to whale and dinosaur bones – it’s all there.242 West Granton Road, 247 4770, nms.ac.uk. Visits by appointment only or with occasional tours."
"Frizzante is a multi-award winning restaurant that’s steeped in local culinary history. Run by the son of famed Italian chef and restaurateur Don Pasquale, Frizzante aims to continue the success of its forebears by providing locals with authentic Italian dishes, a friendly and charming atmosphere, fantastic service and value for money. It’s been a long-standing family motto that the real stars are the regular customers who come and eat time and time again."
"Frizzante is the most recent venture of the charismatic and accomplished Don Pasquale and his son jonathan. Don Pasquale has been serving delicious Italian food to Edinburgh patrons for many years, and his son has clearly inherited his enthusiasm and charm. Frizzante specialises in Neapolitan and Mediterranean food."
"An Edinburgh ice cream list wouldn't be complete without Scoopz in the capital's Southside, located conveniently next to the Pear Tree pub. They have on offer everything your sweet tooth could desire- from Creme Egg ice cream to waffles smothered in Nutella or a milkshake made with your favourite chocolate. It's Edinburgh's answer to Willy Wonka's chocolate factory and no matter your age you will probably find yourself getting carried away by the sheer number of sweeties on offer."
"When seeking the best food around, they say to follow the locals. So when that hankering for sweetness sets in, S.Lucas is the spot to head. A true taste of Italy, with a hefty sprinkling of Scottish influence, this renowned ice cream parlour and café has digs in Morningside and Musselburgh."
"Explore Edinburgh’s history while you peruse historic rooms and iconic objects. The Museum also has a fun interactive Learning Space for children, with activities and replica objects, as well as online quizzes and games for after you visit. A must for any family, but in particular the ones with small children."
"Highlights include the bowl and collar worn by Greyfriar’s Bobby!. The Museum of Edinburgh is located in a 16th century building on the Royal Mile. If you want to learn about the history of Edinburgh, this is the place to go!"
"Explore free museums such as The Museum on the Mound, the Writer’s Museum and the Museum of Edinburgh. These museums are smaller in size and will not take long to explore."
"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)."
"The stripped-down, low-fi, traditional art of storytelling has had something of a resurgence in Britain over the last decade or so, and…"