Edinburgh, Scotland has been the Scottish Capital since the 15th century. Here you’ll find two distinct UNESCO Heritage sites, Old Town which includes Edinburgh Castle and New Town, whose neoclassical style dates back to the 18th century and whose infrastructure had an influence on European urban planning.
When coming into Edinburgh you’ll find Edinburgh Castle hard to miss; its massive structure stands on Castle Rock and overlooks Old Town. The fortress was home to Queen Margaret in 1093, who later gained sainthood, then to King Charles I and many other Dukes, Kings, and Queens throughout the centuries. Within the walls you’ll see Edinburgh’s oldest structure, St. Margaret’s Chapel, built in the 12th century in honor of Queen Margaret by her son King David I.
Throughout the centuries many buildings and structures were added as the castle changed hands and survived many sieges—26 to be exact—making it the most besieged place in Great Britain and one of the most attacked in the world. Today it is the headquarters to the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards. It also houses the oldest Crown Jewels of Scotland, including the crown, scepter, and sword of state; in the same room you will also find the Stone of Destiny, an ancient symbol of Scotland’s monarchy, that was seized by King Edward I in 1296 and brought to England. There, it was built into a new throne at Westminster Abbey, and from then on it was used by the monarchy for coronation ceremonies in England and Great Britain. It was returned home to Scotland in 1996 and remains in the Crown Jewel Room, only to be removed for coronations at Westminster Abbey.
When coming up to the castle you will be on the Royal Mile—this was and is the main thoroughfare to enter the castle. Here you will find many stores and restaurants located in buildings preserved throughout the centuries. One of the restaurants, The Witchery, is located right beside the spot where witches were burned at the stake in the 16th to 18th centuries. The Royal Mile runs from the castle to the Scottish Parliament and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where the King has his Scottish residence.
New Town borders Old Town and was built between 1767 and 1850. This part of Edinburgh retains its old-world charm and is the main shopping area, which includes Princess Street and hosts upscale shops, restaurants, chain stores, bars, cocktail lounges, and a spectacular view of Edinburgh Castle.
Events to Plan Around
Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, held in August at the entrance to Edinburgh Castle. This event hosts the best military and Scottish bagpipe bands from around the European Nation. It is a battle of the bands, so to speak, and is accompanied by a magnificent light show and ends with fireworks nightly. The stands only hold 8,800 so it is important to pre-book your tickets.
Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Throughout the month of August, Edinburgh hosts performers from around the globe who are on the “fringe” of breaking through; performances are held in bars, alleys, theaters, down the Royal Mile…anywhere they can find a spot. Many performances are free (pass the hat at the end) while others charge a very minimal fee. It is worth the experience—no need to pre book as flyers and booklets are plentiful around New and Old Town.
Things to Do
Arthur’s Seat, located in Holyrood Park, is an ancient volcano and main peak to the group of hills in Edinburgh; take a hike up Arthur’s Seat and get a spectacular view of the palace and city.
Johnnie Walker Flagship Store, located on Princess Street. This eight-floor store is a dream come true for whiskey lovers; from the customized Whiskey Experience to explore the flavors of Scotland to the dining, bars, and retail store, they have it all.
Take a tour of Edinburgh Castle to learn more about the history, sieges, buildings, and gruesome past that many endured during medieval times.
Are you a beer lover? There are many Scottish pubs located in and around the city. Take a self-guided tour and visit many of the oldest pubs in the U.K.. Be sure to try Sheep Heid Inn, the oldest licensed public house, dating back to 1360—the Ye Olde Golf Tavern dates back to 1456, and the White Hart Inn dates back to 1516.
