Discover Edinburgh

Edinburgh is easily remembered and never forgotten; a city of rich cultural and historical significance. From the imposing castle that dominates the vista, to the winding period streets soaked in a heritage of a unique people, the city is the jewel in the Scottish crown. Steeped in the arts and surrounded by lush green hills that roll to the horizon, Edinburgh is suitable for people of all persuasions.

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and has played an important historical role in the region and country. The city has been a settlement for millennia, with archaeological evidence dating back thousands of years. Since the Middle Ages the importance of Edinburgh as a political and cultural hub has intensified, and today the city is a key player in the arts with several important festivals. Outside of London, Edinburgh is the most visited tourist destination in the UK, and this easily accessible city has many attractions befitting its status.

About Edinburgh	Map

When first visiting Edinburgh, all eyes will be drawn to Edinburgh Castle, which straddles the castle rock and covers the skyline. It is a befitting testament to the rich architectural significance within the city, with both the old and new town being listed as World Heritage Sites. With such a dominating presence it is no surprise that the castle is a major draw in the tourism sector, enjoying its place at the top of the list of most visited attractions in Scotland.

Some of the highlights of a visit to Edinburgh Castle include the chance to see the Stone of Destiny, where historically, Scottish monarchs have been crowned. Scotland's very own crown jewels are on display, while the resplendent St Margaret's Chapel is a stark reminder of days past, and is the oldest building in the whole city.

The castle is a perfect place to join the bustle and activity of the Royal Mile; this grey washed cobbled street is a hub of shops and tourism, and links Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Abbey. The Royal Mile serves as a perfect chance to soak up the local culture and feel a kinship with a populous of intriguing people. Eateries and pubs adorn the streets giving the visitor a real sense of community, despite the tourist backdrop. With a range of food and drink served to cater to all gastronomic tastes and budgets, the Royal Mile is delightful whether wasting a sunny afternoon hour, or quenching a thirst during a long night.

After a trip to the castle and down the Royal mile, Holyrood Palace serves as an ideal bookend to a day. This nine hundred year old ruin was founded by King David I of Scotland as an abbey, which was later further developed into an adjoining residence. Holyrood Palace has since become the official Scottish residence of Queen Elizabeth the Second.

After a busy day of sightseeing, a spot of retail therapy could be just what is needed, and the modern and dynamic Edinburgh can suit the needs of the shopper. Princes Street is where the buyers congregate among the vast array of shops, boutiques, and stalls. Souvenir shops are abundant and give tourists the chance to take a memory of their visit home, while high street brands are available in numbers. For even the most high class shoppers, designer brands are in evidence on Princes Street, adding further to the cosmopolitan nature of Edinburgh.

Edinburgh is perhaps most famous for its festivals, and the city becomes a cultural haven of arts during these months, and if you are lucky enough to visit during one of these great experiences then you will be in for a treat.

The most popular of the numerous yearly festivals in the city is the Edinburgh Fringe, which is the largest arts festival in the world. All facets of the arts are on show during the Fringe; however comedy has become a major part, although theatre, dance, poetry, and music feature heavily. The month long festival is a treat for lovers of the arts, although it is also a perfect backdrop for those looking to enjoy a city while it is at its most vibrant and effervescent self. In fact during the Fringe Festival the city's population doubles in size as throngs of people soak up the atmosphere of goodwill and cheer.

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival offers numerous opportunities to see some of the world's best performing artists, with a staggering 2,500 different shows available, 600 of which are free. With such an array of choice it is easy to lose yourself in the winding streets of theatres and bars, although, with a new gem around every corner, one feels ecstatic to get lost in Edinburgh.

With the Edinburgh International Festival offering an alternative to the Fringe, fans of the arts are well covered. The International Festival offers a more musically orientated selection, and its invitation only policy sees some of the world's best musicians in attendance.

Travelling to Edinburgh in the summer gives the visitor the opportunity to see the majestic and awe inspiring Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. This grand display of military bands is an international affair as bands from across the globe attend, and even those not associated can get swept away as they look on in awe.

After all the tradition of the festivals, and the history of a unique city, it is sometimes nice to get back to basics. And Edinburgh offers tourist attractions of the highest quality, including Edinburgh Zoo. The zoo was built in 1913 and offers amazing views across the city from its position atop Corstorphine Hill, while the sheer number of species on display will please even the biggest nature fans.

Visit Edinburgh and be part of a city proud of its roots but willing to step confidently into a rich future. With so much historical power and cultural magnificence, Edinburgh is a city to fall in love with, while the breadth of choice will keep families or individuals happy. Be welcomed by the city's warm people and join the fun of festivals or mingle with the shoppers on the cosmopolitan streets. Edinburgh really does fit that old cliché of so much to see and do, so be prepared to never forget your visit to the jewel of the north.