Our Insider Guide to a Weekend in Edinburgh
Easy to reach and easy to explore on foot, make Edinburgh your next weekend escape
Stroll the cobbled streets of the medieval Old Town, wander down the Royal Mile, marvel at the historic Dean Village, the former milling village and quiet oasis on the Water of Leith, and enjoy a bracing walk on Portobello Beach. Culture vultures should make sure the Dean Gallery and the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art, the National Galleries of Scotland and City Art Centre are on their to-do list, alongside a peek inside the iconic castle and Holyrood Palace of course. Get into the spirit with a two-hour evening Ghost Tour with Whisky, and get a taste of Scotland with a Secret Food Tour through Edinburgh’s Old Town. Edinburgh’s highest point, Arthur’s Seat, offers wide-reaching views across the city and Firth of Forth but it’s well worth the climb and there are various routes up depending on your level of fitness.
Where to Eat
Close to Holyrood Park and the path up to Arthur’s Seat, Conduit is an intimate, Michelin-star restaurant with just six tables where they serve a surprise menu concept with plenty of playful elements. Find fabulous seafood at Lyla where the tasting menu puts Scottish produce front and centre, and Skua is a cosy restaurant tucked away below street level serving small plates perfect for sharing. If you like a late breakfast after a late night then The Edinburgh Larder on Blackfriars Street (with another outpost in Morningside) is known for its cosy atmosphere and delicious all-day menu. Hula in the historic Grassmarket is an Instagrammer’s heaven, as is the popular, pink-fronted Laila in the Old Town serving brunch all day long.
Where to Stay
Tucked beneath the castle, The Witchery is hidden in a collection of historic buildings dating back to 1595. Voted the UK’s most romantic hotel, it’s famous for its quirky interiors, fine dining and award-winning wine list. Book the Inner Sanctum, a romantic suite with four-poster bed, roll-top bath, separate sitting room and views of the Royal Mile. On Cowgate The House of Gods is a decadent, boutique hotel with an iconic cocktail bar and just 22 luxury rooms. Upgrade your stay here with a VIP ‘Treat Me Like I’m Famous’ package to include chocolates, cocktails, a midnight feast and breakfast in bed. If people watching is more your thing then book into Gleneagles Townhouse overlooking St Andrew Square. This smaller sister to the famous Perthshire hotel is a super-smart destination with a stunning rooftop bar perfect for late night cocktails.
