Mentioned by Lonely Planet Top Choices
Top things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland
"Don’t miss the Camera Obscura show on the top floor. PRO TIP: The presentation also gives you a nice overview of Edinburgh and its history, which is great if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Plan to spend about an hour here (or more, depending on your interests)."
"View the world in a new way at the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions|© lindsay smith / Alamy Stock Photo"
"Calton Hill is another fantastic place for kids to let off steam and as a bonus you’ll get some of the ultimate best views of the city!. When you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views to the Firth of Forth, Arthurs Seat, the port of Leith, the Pentland hills and of course right down Princes street towards the castle. Calton Hill is also home to several unusual monuments including the national monument which looks like it was built by the Romans."
"If you head for the Balmoral Hotel (large clock tower in New Town) head Northeast and you’ll find your way up Calton Hill. There’s plenty to see up there – from Nelson Monument (see below) to just soaking up in the breathtaking views of Edinburgh!"
"Calton Hill is one of the most recognisable hills in Edinburgh, located close to Princes Street, and offers one of the best views of the city."
"Rhubarb Restaurant is set in a 17th-century manor house|© Neil Setchfield / Alamy Stock Photo. A restaurant with a story, Rhubarb operates out of the esteemed 17th-century manor hotel Prestonfield House. This romantic pick comes with all the bells and whistles, from the dramatic decor to the ultra-gourmet dishes."
"Rhubarb Restaurant is set in a 17th-century manor house|© Neil Setchfield / Alamy Stock Photo. This stylish and oh-so-glamorous restaurant is set in a 17th-century manor house in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat. Its name alludes to the fact that Prestonfield was the first estate in Scotland to grow rhubarb."
"Rhubarb is the decadent and romantic restaurant of the Prestonfield House Hotel. Nestling in the shadow of Arthur's seat, Prestonfield House is a beautiful seventeenth-century building. The restaurant is formed from two opulent oval rooms in the heart of the house, decorated with plush rich fabrics."
"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."
"Situated at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, this gallery is one of 15 in the UK that houses the Royal Collection, the largest private art collection in the world. This is a fascinating record of the personal tastes of kings and queens over the past 500 years, comprising decorative arts, drawings, watercolours, paintings and photographs. Those that have made contributions to the collection over the years include Frederick Prince of Wales, George IV, Queen Victoria and Queen Mary."
"The Queen's Gallery, located in the Palace of Holyroodhouse, was opened by Her Majesty The Queen in November 2002 as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations. Now, it hosts a programme of changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection. A worthwhile stop on a visit to the Royal Mile."
"The Palace of Holyroodhouse and The Queens Gallery lie at the east end of The Royal Mile, opposite the Scottish Parliament. The visit is best achieved by taxi, local bus service from Waverley Bridge or tour bus. Walking takes around 15 minutes from Waverley Station."
"Address: 7 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, EH2 4DRWebsite: The Georgian House. To the west end of George Street you’ll find Charlotte Square, a large area of private gardens that mirror St. Andrews Square to the east, and it’s within the surrounding buildings where you’ll find the Georgian House. This 18th-century townhouse was built to accommodate the wealthy Edinburgh residents who could afford to escape the dilapidated Old Town, and over the course of 170 years, 5 families called 7 Charlotte Square their home."
"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Hchc2009 used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Explore the intricate beauty and collections of a luxurious townhouse, from back in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, with a visit to the Georgian House. This beautiful structure, built by Robert Adam, a renowned architect in those days, is a real testament to the country’s impressive architectural art in the Georgian era."
"A great example of the virtues of simplicity, this bright self-catering flat has plenty of original Georgian features decorated with skilled, stylish restraint. It’s in an elegant area close to the city centre, but with great neighbourhood amenities. All the comforts of home in a classy package."
"Aimed at children under five, this play cafe offers a fun, stimulating environment for little ones and friendly, relaxed atmosphere for parents. The cafe is the brainchild of a busy mum who knows all too well how stressful a simple cup of coffee can be when you have a lively youngster!. The large, bright play area space and fantastic selection of traditional toys will leave you safe in the knowledge your child is happy, so you can truly relax with free wifi and coffee on tap."
"A real cosy hideaway in Canonmills, The Bluebird Café is a local favourite. Their breakfast's are like a big warm hug that will brighten up a cold and misty Edinburgh morning. The pancakes with syrup and bacon are particularly delicious and they serve some of the best scones in Edinburgh."