Mentioned by Fodor's Choice
Sights in Edinburgh and the Lothians
"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!"
"View the world in a new way at the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions|© lindsay smith / Alamy Stock Photo"
"The unfinished acropolis is completely unmistakable - referred to historically as “Edinburgh’s shame”, but any notion of that is wholly absent should you take the journey up the stairs and experience the joy to be found at the summit. Panoramic views of the city, the undulating buildings contoured to the cities foundations. Rugged and beautiful, and uniquely Edinburgh."
"If you’re in the market for a picture-perfect proposal spot, look no further than Calton Hill It boasts sights of the city and looks absolutely magical at dawn and dusk. As an added plus, it comes with built-in engagement photo backdrops - the Nelson Monument and National Monument."
"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."
"Behind Usher Hall lies 4042 – a fun, late-night alternative to clubbing named after its address (40-42 Grindlay Street). Here, you can play games of ping-pong until 3am, with beer and cocktails to fuel your serve. The walls are stripped back to their old tile work with metal beams on show, giving it an industrial feel."
"From the ashes of the Citrus Club a new late-night bar, club and ping pong hall has arisen. That's right, ping pong hall. This odd, but strangely appealing, combination is called 4042 after its address (40-42 Grindlay Street)."
"Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by 4042 Edinburgh (@4042edinburgh)"
"Located at the foot of Edinburgh Castle, St Cuthbert’s Parish Church is the spire you can see poking through the Edinburgh skyline whenever you see panoramic pictures of Edinburgh Castle itself. Expect to hear the Church’s ten bells on Sunday mornings and see beautiful wall paintings, stained glass windows and an organ built in 1899. Child friendly: yes, but no particular activities are available for them on a regular basis Address: St Cuthbert’s Parish Church, 5 Lothian Road, Edinburgh EH1 2EP Opening hours for visitors: Tue to Thu 10am – 3pm More information here."
"Situated at the foot of the Castle and nestled amidst its churchyard and an abundance of greenery is St Cuthbert’s. It is widely believed that a church has been standing in this spot since 850 AD, making it technically Edinburgh’s oldest building. The architecture and decoration of the church is particularly ornate, which made it a source of some controversy when it was first designed."
"Cafe Andaluz is a culinary playground where tapas and sangria reign supreme. Although the inside is utterly charming, the outdoor section is just as lovely—and is a prime people-watching spot, as well. Menu highlights include sharing platters; paella; and an enticing range of meat, veggie and seafood tapas."
"Situated in the heart of George Street, this exceedingly popular Spanish tapas restaurant has an extensive range of tapas. A firm favourite is the Pollo Rebozado, succulent chicken fillets in a crisp batter coated with light grain mustard and honey."
"Borough has open its doors for the first time in the foodie neighbourhood of Leith. A modern European menu of bold, precise flavours is spearheaded by Head Chef Darren Murray, formerly of award-winning restaurant, Norn. Dishes include appetisers, such as charcuterie, and a selection of savoury and sweet plates such as Courgette Tart with Nasturtium and Mackerel Tartare with Green Strawberry and Elderflower."
"This modern bistro, which has chef Darren Murray at the helm, places a focus on sustainable and environmentally responsible food. This, coupled with Borough’s chilled-out atmosphere and expertly sourced local produce, makes the four-course set menu all the more special. Expect dishes like cured Borders lamb and roast North Sea hake, plus a fantastic selection of wines."
"If you’re a sucker for low-lighting and gorgeous interiors then The Stockbridge Restaurant is your date night go-to. Here, you’ll find a roaring fireplace for snug winter meals, white table clothes and statement artworks by Scottish Colourists. There’s no wonder this charming little spot was named as one of the top 100 restaurants in 2014, especially with a menu brimming with moreish delights such as spiced pigeon breast and grilled halibut."
"The Stockbridge Restaurant is a sophisticated affair in the stylish suburb of Stockbridge, and a local favourite. Beautifully fresh fish dishes change daily based on the local catch, and hearty game dishes are consistently good. The wine list is strong, and the candlelit dining room, where huge artworks decorate the dark walls, has a decidedly Gothic feel, perfect for a languorous evening."
": Cocktails flow and romance blossoms at Monteiths, a gorgeous cocktail bar nestled near the historic Royal Mile. Low-lit interiors and a comfy-chic setting makes Monteith the perfect pick for a relaxed date night. Dig into seasonal picks such as oysters, lobsters, and steaks, pairing them with genius aphrodisiacal cocktails."
"Edinburgh may be one of the world’s most popular cities, but at Le Monde Hotel you can experience life on different continents!. Each of the 18 rooms are styled to reflect the traditions and cultures of global destinations, from the urban chic of New York to the carnival soul of Rio, while the cocktail creations in the champagne bar are infused with the finest flavours from around the world. Every bedroom benefits from a 42” plasma television, air conditioning, rainfall shower, safe, complimentary refreshments, and WiFi."
"Whether you are looking for fine dining in Edinburgh or the latest pop-up restaurants and the coolest bars, you will find something to suit your style in our comprehensive directory of Edinburgh restaurants. Scotland's Capital and the country's second biggest city is home to some of the most fantastic restaurants - if you are looking for cheap eats and fantastic food on a budget then the Old Town's array on small independant eateries will suit you. Or for some style and sophistication, Leith offers gourmet dining at its best."
"Originally opened as a Fringe pop-up, Checkpoint is now a permanent and popular restaurant (Photo: Checkpoint). Checkpoint’s daytime menu offers a range of delicious dishes for less than a tenner, with options like the crispy halloumi burger, mac and three cheese toastie, and fish bouillabaisse stew on offer. The evening menu is slightly pricier (with most mains around £15), but the relaxed restaurant still offers affordable dining without compromising on taste or portion size."
"A post shared by Checkpoint (@checkpointedi) on May 12, 2018 at 9:34am PDT. The Checkpoint is a classy restaurant with a sense of humor - just check out their website and social media posts for a sample of their subtle, self-effacing personality. The restaurant is basically Edinburgh in a mini form."