How to Celebrate Burns Night in 2021

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Burns night celebrates the life and works of Robert Burns, Scotland’s National Bard. Burns suppers, held across the country on 25th January, are fun evenings full of traditions, delicious food, whisky, poetry, and music. Read on if you would like to learn more about Scotland’s National Poet, Burns Supper and how to celebrate Burns Night in 2021.

Robert Burns

Robert, or Rabbie, Burns, lived in the 2nd half of the 18th century and is the most famous Scottish poet who wrote in the Scots language (as well as English). His iconic works, that focus on the themes of nature, love and family, made a lasting mark on Scottish literature and culture in general. A BBC article explains that Burns’ work remains popular today due to  “the themes and language of everyday life that he used. His poems were humorous and he used small subjects to express big ideas.”[1] The legacy continues to live on as we celebrate the birthday of Scotland’s national poet by hosting Burns suppers.

[1] https://www.bbc.co.uk/teach/why-is-robert-burns-work-still-so-popular-today/zky747h 

Burns Supper 

Burns supper can be held as a larger event, as well as a more intimate version for family and friends at your home. There are some key elements that are always followed. The traditional meal would consist of a cock-a-leekie soup, haggis, neeps and tatties, and a cranachan for a dessert. The evening starts off by piping in the guests (at large gatherings) but if you do not have a piper at hand, some traditional music will do. The host welcomes all the guests, and a prayer (The Selkirk Grace) is said so that the meal can begin. The attention then turns to the most important part of the meal, the HAGGIS. At larger events, the haggis is piped in as it is brought to the table, but at home the focus is on the address to the haggis performed by the host (full poem ‘Address to a Haggis’ can be found here), who then invites everyone to raise their glass and toast to the haggis. The evening then continues with a couple of rounds of recitals of some of Burns’ most famous works, all the while enjoying our national drink, Scotch whisky. It is also common to sing Auld Lang Syne at the end while standing up and holding hands.

Burns Night in 2021

Even though the situation does not allow for in-person gatherings this year, there are many digital initiatives taking place over the coming weekend and Monday that will help you celebrate the occasion in style:

  • Burns & Beyond, a festival that celebrates the life and works of Robert Burns by showcasing the best of Scotland’s art and culture.
  • A Virtual Burns Night, a performance organized by Historic Environment Scotland and hosted by Edinburgh Castle, will stream on both Facebook and YouTube.
  • Burns Big Night In, a full programme organized by the National Trust for Scotland, will take place on Sat 23rd Jan (7 pm). You can expect appearances from many great artists, musicians, and leading experts that will provide an insight into the life and works of Robert Burns.
  • Burns Night with the Scotch Whisky Experience – will be live on Facebook and you have an evening full of tales, stories and a special ‘Rabbie Burns’ cocktail to look forward to.

Let us know if you will be celebrating Burns night at home this year, and if you plan to join in one of the digital events – we would love to hear about it in the comments!

St Andrew’s Day 2020: history and traditions of Scotland

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Today is St Andrew’s Day, the National day of Scotland!

But do you really know who is the patron saint of Scotland?

Also known as ‘Là Naomh Anndrais’ in Scottish Gaelic, St Andrew was a fisherman and one of the 12 apostles of Jesus. According to the legend, in the 18th century, after his relics were brought over to Kinrymont in Fife, the town became a major destination for medieval pilgrims and was later re-named St Andrews. It is said he was crucified in 60 AD on an X-shaped cross, rather than the “T” shaped cross of Jesus as he didn’t see himself as worthy enough to die as Jesus did.

This is why the Scottish flag’s symbol is an X. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

The Scottish Parliament made St Andrew’s Day an official bank holiday in Scotland in 2007.

 

Nowadays the traditional celebrations involve ceilidh dancing, eating haggis neeps and tatties, and enjoying Scottish music and culture. More recently it has also meant supporting our local Scottish communities on the day, whether through acts of kindness or by finding new local businesses to enjoy.

This year the traditional activities will not go ahead but the communities across Scotland are being encouraged to celebrate the 30th November in different ways. Here below you can find a couple of this year’s initiatives:

  • One Million Word of Kindness: #OneKindAct campaign is asking people to send king messages to their friends, family and neighbors in order to spread the kindness and connection across the country
  • Get Yer Kilt On: it’s a tourism initiative organised by the Fife Tourism Partnership. You can support it by wearing your kilt or something pattern tartan and then share your pictures on social media using the #GetYerKiltOn hashtag. To find out who the winner will be and for more information on the prize check out the Welcome to Fife social media’s page.

St Andrew’s Day is the right opportunity for everyone to wear their kilt and share the kindness which is part of what makes us who we are as a country.

#StAndrewsDay #ScotlandNationalDay #GetYerKiltOn #WeAreScotland

 

Top Activities in Edinburgh this December

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Edinburgh is starting to feel very festive! Here are our tips on the activities you and your family can enjoy this December. Tune in to a festive story as part of the Edinburgh’s Christmas digital programme from the comfort of our centrally located York Place apartments, explore one of the festive activities at the popular Edinburgh Zoo and Botanic Garden, or simply get to know Edinburgh a little more with Edinburgh Bus Tours.

Edinburgh’s Christmas

Edinburgh’s Christmas programme comes in a new revised form this year. Although moving digital, it aims to lift our spirits up and bring a much-needed festive cheer to our homes.  

As part of Santa’s Advent Stories, Santa Claus will read a story before bedtime every day of the Advent directly on the Edinburgh’s Christmas website. Writers of all ages are encouraged to submit their entries with festive stories and a winning one will be selected by Santa himself! 

Edinburgh’s Christmas Neighbourhood Market is an online initiative to showcase a variety of local businesses and support their activities during these challenging times. We can all support the independent businesses of Edinburgh by buying our Christmas gifts locally. 

To find our more visit the official website here.

Edinburgh Zoo’s Christmas Nights  

Edinburgh Zoo is a great place to visit for adults and children alike but this Christmas you are in for a special treat. Edinburgh Zoo’s Christmas Nights are back from 20th November to 3rd January with availability on selected nights only. Embark on an enchanted light trail around the zoo all the way to the North Pole and visit Santa’s workshop. Feel the festive spirit and enjoy the luminous projections and fairy lights! 

Edinburgh Zoo is a short drive away (3.5 miles) from our York Place apartments, or alternatively there is a direct public transport link (number 26) with a bus stop directly on York Place. 

For further information and to buy tickets visit the official website here.

Christmas At The Botanics 

The Royal Botanic Garden is a favourite spot of many locals and visitors and their popular Christmas At The Botanics event is returning this season – running on selected evenings between 2nd December and 3rd January. They have prepared a festive trail of light that will cheer up the whole family. Experience the tunnel of light, the laser garden, watch mesmerizing light projections displayed on the historic Inverleith House and wander along giant luminescent sculptures and much more! 

The Botanic Garden is within walking distance of our York Place apartments – about 1 mile away and can be a part of a nice day out combined with a walk via the Water of Leith walkway, Inverleith Park and Stockbridge. 

For further information and to buy tickets visit the official website here.

Edinburgh Bus Tours 

Are you looking for a family fun day out? Look no further, Edinburgh Bus Tours allow you and your family to see the main visitor attractions at your own pace – you can hop-on and off as you like and explore your preferred sights. The tours leave from St. Andrew’s Square, which is a short walk away from our York Place apartments. A great way to learn something new about Edinburgh and as a bonus you will be able to enjoy some great panoramic views from the top deck as the tour makes its way through the city. 

More information on the tours can be found here.

If you are staying at our apartments during December and have any questions about your stay or Edinburgh in general, please contact us on enquiries@destinationedinburghapartments.co.uk or give our team a call on 0131 556 3840 and we would be happy to help. 

Top Tips for a Day Out in Edinburgh

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Now that we have had some warm and sunny days here in Edinburgh, we would like to share our top tips on how to spend a relaxing day outdoors whilst staying at our apartments in Edinburgh. In this blog you will find out more about:

  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
  • Water of Leith & Dean Village
  • Starbank Park Newhaven

Day Out at Royal Botanic Garden & Picnic at Inverleith Park

The Royal Botanic Garden celebrates 350 years since it first opened its doors. On a total area of 70 acres you will discover a diverse range of plant and tree collections, enjoy a stunning view of Edinburgh’s skyline and you might even spot a squirrel, or two, who also inhabit this peaceful oasis.  You can continue across to the Inverleith Park, located next to the Garden’s West Gate, and stop for a picnic by another great view of the iconic Edinburgh skyline just above the Inverleith Pond. On the way back to the city centre, wander around the streets of Stockbridge and discover shops, cafes and charity shops typical for this part of town. Finally, if you happen to be in Stockbridge on a Sunday, pay a visit to the Stockbridge Market!

 

Walk along the Water of Leith & Dean Village

Another beautiful area to discover is the walkway along the Water of Leith. Just a few minutes away from the city centre, you can join the walkway and enjoy the gems as you follow along. You will come across St Bernard’s Well hidden in an iconic structure dating back over 200 years and dominated by a statute of the Greek Goddess of Health, Hygeia. Back in the day when the well was first discovered, the locals believed the spring water to have healing affects. Moving further away from the city centre, you will pass under the impressive Dean Bridge and in no time, you will reach the Dean Village – a picturesque area that will take you back in time.

Starbank Park & Traditional Seafood in Newhaven

If you feel like venturing a little further out, this beautiful park is in Newhaven, around 2.5 miles from the city centre. The Starbank Park has been restored into its current state by a community-led action group, the Friends of Starbank Park and they have turned it into a favourite spot for local residents. The park has an eye-catching garden full of flowers, plants and even cherry blossom trees. With its unbeatable location, almost at the water-front, it boasts amazing views over the Firth of Forth. To make it a perfect place for a family visit, there is a children’s nature trail and a little library to entertain the little ones. The park is only a couple of minutes’ walk from the Newhaven harbour – you can enjoy the atmosphere of an old fishing harbour and grab a bite to eat.

 

Before your visit, have a quick look online and check if the places you plan to visit require you to book a ticket, or reserve a table, in advance. This way you will be ready to enjoy what the city has got to offer!

Things you might not know about Scotland

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Scotland is a country full to the brim of surprises and culture.

In light of this, we’ve created a list of things you may not know about the nation, give yourself a point of each answer and let us know below how many you knew.

 

  • Scotland’s national animal is a unicorn and has been for over 2,500 years.

 

 

  • 13% of the Scottish popular are ginger – making it the highest proportion of any country in the world.

 

  • Scotland is considered the home & inventor of Golf, with the first recorded game happening in St. Andrews.

 

  •  Edinburgh was the first city to have an organised fire brigade. Look out for monument commemorating this achievement.

 

 

  • Scotland has 790 islands, and each are beautiful. However, only 1/4th of them are inhabited.

 

  • Chicken Tikka Masala was originated in 1971 in Glasgow, Scotland. The dish was created by a Pakistani chef after a customer complained his original curry tasted dry.

 

  • There are more folk with Scottish heritage living in the US than there is in Scotland itself.

 

 

  • Scotland’s wee town of Bonnybridge is the considered the UFO capital of the world with more than 300 sightings reported annually!

 

  • Scotland boasts the world’s tallest hedge, standing at 1,700 ft in length.

 

 

  • The importation of haggis to the USA has been illegal since the 1970’s – so you’ll just have to come here to enjoy it.
Thank you for reading.
Don’t forget to let us know how many you knew.

Learn Important Scottish Slang

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This is a very informative blog. It shall be ‘pure’ helpful to use during your trip to Edinburgh.

Let us know if you have learnt anything new in these terms, there’s plenty where that came from.

We’ll look forward to hearing your best Scottish accents at check-in!

 

Haud yer wheesht

Meaning: Be quiet

Example: ‘Oi haud yer wheesht, will ya?’

Translation: ‘Hello, can you please be quiet’

 

Auld

Meaning: Old

Example: ‘Happy Birthday, Yer getting auld noo’

Translation: ‘Happy Birthday, You are getting old now’

 

Bairn/We’an

Meaning: Baby, Small child

Example: ‘Aw, look et the bonnie wee bairn’

Translation: ‘Aw, look at the beautiful little baby’

 

Oot

Meaning: Out

Example: ‘Am gawn oot the night, you keen?’

Translation: ‘I’m going out tonight, would you like to join me?’

 

Banter

Meaning: Thrilling conversation, witty repartee or wisecracks.

Example: ‘You have braw banter, pure good chat.’

Translation: ‘You are really funny, not boring to talk too’

 

Aye

Meaning: Yes

Example: ‘ Aye, geez us twa pints o bitter’

Translation: ‘Yes, can I please have two pints of Pale Ale’

 

Isnae

Meaning: Isn’t

Example: ‘That isnae right, I dinnae kin why’

Translation: ‘That isn’t right, I don’t know why’

 

Braw

Meaning: Good

Example: ‘That’s pure braw haggis, neeps and tatties’

Translation: ‘That is very good haggis, turnip and potatoes’

 

Bosie

Meaning: To hug or embrace someone

Example: ‘C’mere, do you need a wee boise?’

Translation: ‘Come over, would you like a hug?

 

Ken

Meaning: To know

Example: ‘Dae you ken wit am sayin?’

Translation: ‘Do you know what I mean?’

 

Mawkit/Clerty

Meaning: Dirty

Example: ‘Yer troosers are pure mawkit’

Translation: ‘Your trousers are very dirty’

 

Loon/Laddie

Meaning: A young man

Example: ‘Fit a braw laddie, affy peely-wall though’

Translation: ‘What a great gentleman, very pale though’

 

Quine/Lassie

Meaning: A young woman

Example: ‘She’s a bonnie lookin’ quine’

Translation: ‘She’s a beautiful young woman’

 

Dogs Dinner

Meaning: Messy

Example: ‘Ma hair is a dogs dinner, its blowing a hoolie ootside’

Translation: ‘My hair is very messy after that wind outside’

 

Yaldi

Meaning: Excitement or joy

Example: ‘It’s Friday, lets gan yaldi!’

Translation: ‘It’s Friday, let’s go wild!’

 

Scran

Meaning: Food/Snacks

Example: ‘I’m awa for the messages, I’m pure hank marvin for some scran’

Translation: ‘I’m away to the supermarket, I’m very hungry for food’

 

Steamin’/Off Yer face

Meaning: Drunk/Tipsy

Example: ‘I’m barry steamin, tae much whisky’

Translation: ‘I’m very drunk, I’ve had too much whisky’

 

Dinnae Kin

Meaning: Don’t know

Example: ‘I dinnae kin, ma heid’s mince’

Translation: ‘I don’t know, I’m a little mixed up’

 

Baltic

Meaning: Cold temperatures

Example ‘It’s barry baltic, geez us yer tammy’

Translation: ‘It’s very cold, can I borrow your hat?’

 

Ye make a better door than a windae

Meaning: I can’t see past you

Example: ‘Oi loon, ya make a better door than a windae’

Translation: ‘Excuse me sir, I cannot see past you, would you mind moving

 

If you know any useful slang, don’t forget to share them in the comments below!

Our Favourite Attractions in Edinburgh

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There’s so many things to do in the city, from secret bars to spooky ghost tours, Edinburgh has it all. So to make things a bit easier we’ve put together a list of our must-do’s! Comment below if you think we’ve missed anything critical. Sharing is Caring!

STEEP YOURSELF IN HISTORY AT EDINBURGH CASTLE

Why not get ahead of the crowds and start your day at Edinburgh Castle when it opens at 9.30am. The Castle is set in the heart of the city and the escapade offers a fantastic view. It’s home to the National War Museum and you can see the real Scottish Crown Jewels and Stone of Destiny! If you’re still wandering around in the early afternoon, you can see (and of course) hear the famous One O’clock Gun! Afterwards, enjoy exploring the Royal Mile, visiting the various pubs, restaurants, shops and historically significant closes to find the hidden gems.

 

BE FASCINATED BY SURGEONS’ HALL MUSEUM

Take a pit stop halfway down the royal mile and grab some lunch on South Bridge. Make sure you’ve eaten before visiting our next suggestion! Surgeon’s Hall Museum is a real treasure trove of historical surgical tools, mind-boggling paintings and – yes –  an assortment of real body parts, displayed in jars. You may not know but Edinburgh’s dark history of  body snatching allowed for the evolution of medical surgeries. Find out about how many great Scottish minds discovered several medical breakthroughs we still use today.

 

TRAVEL TO THE BEGINNING OF TIME AT DYNAMIC EARTH

Now you’ve experienced some of exciting human history, perhaps it’s time to launch into outer space and see the creation of time itself. Dynamic Earth is a fantastic attraction, suitable for all ages to learn and enjoy. This immersive and interactive adventure takes you on a journey through space and time to learn how the forces of the natural world worked to shape Earth to what we know it to be today. Finish your afternoon off (and rest those feet) watching a short film in their 360-degree cinema dome, its included in your tour price.

 

 

SPEND YOUR TIME, NOT MONEY (IT’S FREE) AT NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SCOTLAND

We also suggest a visit to the National Museum of Scotland, its easily one of the best indoor attractions in Edinburgh. Even better, it’s free! With over 20,000 unique artifacts to see, you can learn about the story of Scotland and see fascinating exhibits on the natural world, world cultures, science, design and history. Some museum highlights would be the animal exhibit, the fashion & style gallery and watching the millennium clock chime in the hour with its unique musical display.

 

GETTING HUNGRY FOR DINNER INSPIRATION? CHECK OUT OUR SISTER BLOG ‘BEST PLACES TO EAT IN EDINBURGH’ FOR OUR TOP FOODIE FAVORITES.  

 

HAVE A DRAM AT THE SCOTCH WHISKY EXPERIENCE

Head towards the castle from the Royal Mile where you’ll find the Scotch Whisky Experience.  You can honour Scotland’s national (and regularly enjoyed) drink. Whisk around on the barrel ride where you’ll learn all about the whisky making process and behold the world’s largest collection of Scotch whisky. Then don’t forget to finish off your tour with a sample of the good stuff!

 

THE ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA, ITS FIT FOR A QUEEN

Start your day from Princes Street in the city centre, it’s a short ride on the number 22 or 11 to The Royal Yacht Britannia. which according to votes on TripAdvisor , it is one of the UK’s best attractions. We recommend buying a day-ticket for the bus, its only £4.50 this will set you up on as many buses as you would like throughout the day however, alternatively a single is £1.80. Once you arrive at Ocean terminal you can step on board The Queen’s floating Royal residence. On a tour around the yacht you’ll see the engine room, a Rolls Royce and state apartments across the five decks. After the tour, we would recommend taking some time to exploring terminal’s shops, bars and attractions and of course- the Shore of Leith, one of the most fashionable areas to live in Edinburgh.

 

SMELLS THE ROSES AT THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS

If you find yourself at the Leith Shore, then you can hop on the number 36 bus and head down Edinburgh’s haven of peace and tranquility. The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh offers visitors 72 acres of stunning scenery and is one of the finest botanic gardens in the world, dating back over 300 years.  Wonder around its wonderful exhibitions, exotic glasshouses and be surrounded by a host of colourful plants, trees and shrubs. Once you’ve soaked up the fresh air, either wander back to the centre through the sophisticated Stockbridge area of New Town or catch the number 27 and 23 bus will drop you back off at Princes Street.

 

IF THERE ARE ANY ATTRACTION WHICH TAKES YOUR FANCY, DON’T HESITATE TO GIVE US A CALL ON 0131 556 3840. WE WOULD BE HAPPY TO ARRANGE TICKETS AND/OR MAKE RESERVATIONS TO SECURE YOUR PLACE AND SAVE QUEUING TIME.  

What’s on for Burns Night? – Edinburgh

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Are you joining us in Edinburgh to mark the anniversary of Robert Burns’ birth on 25 January?

Burns Night is a wild annual tradition in Scotland.

Up and down the country there shall be gallons of Irn Bru, Drams o’ Whisky & Haggis, enjoyed by all.

 

Why do we hold a Burns Supper?

 

The tradition of a Burns supper originates back to 1801 where 9 of Robert Burns closest pals held a supper in his honour, marking 5 years of his death. During the supper they enjoyed a tasty dinner of haggis and read renditions of some of his best work. The night was such a resounding success they decided to hold the supper as an annual gathering, thus beginning the tradition we still enjoy to this day.

 

Why should you take part?

 

Great Food (tick), Great music (tick) and Great Company (tick). Plus there’s nothing quite like ending the night – surrounded by old friends & new, crossing their arms and joining hands singing Auld Lang Syne. Although alternatively some people opt to end the festivities dancing to Runrig’s Loch Lomond, the commonly accepted peoples’ national anthem.

 

Let’s set the scene…

 

Visit Scotland have kindly created a fantastic Scottish Spotify playlist, full to the brim of Scottish classics & amazing bands.  Listen to it here while you work your way through our suggestions.

 

What’s on in Edinburgh for Burns Night?

 

  • Celebrate Burns Night

17th– 26th January at the Ghillie Dhu, Edinburgh

See details & get your tickets here.

Immerse yourself in a celebration fit for Rabbie himself. Choose between joining friends for an informal 3 course burns meal in jovial Ghillie Dhu’s main bar or enjoy live traditional Scottish music during a delicious dinner. Then top it off with a reeling ceilidh where you can learn and perfect all the best Scotch social dances throughout the night.

 

  • The Burns and Beyond Festival

21st January – 9th February in Edinburgh

See festival highlights & tickets here. 

Steep yourself in rich Scottish culture and traditions at the Burns & Beyond Festival. Highlights include a family friendly ceilidh with the undisputed ‘king of the ceilidh’ Fergie Macdonald and a rich night of comedy and live music at the ‘Not So Traditional’ Burns Supper.

 

  • Enjoy a Brunch with Burns

24th & 25th January at The Scottish Story Telling Centre, Edinburgh

Get your tickets for the show here.

Perhaps you fancy a spot of theatre this burns day. The Scottish Story Telling Centre presents a Fringe-favourite, ‘Burns from Brunch’. Enjoy the company of Robert Burns as he wakes up in 2019 to share his poetry, songs and thoughts of a contemporary Scotland. This show is suitable for ages 14+ and is sure to brew some laughs.

 

  • Board the Yacht for a Burns to Remember

24th & 25th January at The Royal Yacht Britannia Burns Supper, Edinburgh

Book your place for the supper here.

If you fancy a spot of luxury- You can spend your Burns celebrations on the gorgeous Royal Yacht Britannia. Enjoy a red carpet welcome, drinks and canapé reception. Alongside a delicious 4-course meal, live traditional music, a whisky tasting and tour of The Royal Yacht Britannia.

 

Too excited to wait?

If you’re looking for something to fill the void while you wait for Burns Night, we’ve got you covered, find plenty suggestions of things to do on our social media & printed in your apartment!

 

Whatever you get up to this Burns Night, lets raise o’ dram for Rabbie!

 

If you have any questions do not hesitate to email or call, we would be happy to discuss suggestions and things to do with you.

Travel from Edinburgh Airport to your Apartment

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Fresh off your flight and eager to explore, it’s time to check into your apartment.

There are a few options to get you from the airport.

Read on to find what works best for you.

 

We can come and pick you up!

Our lovely driver Karl can pick you up at the arrivals gate with a personalised sign so he’ll be easy to spot!

He’ll then bring you back to your apartment and check you straight in.

It couldn’t get much smoother than that. Only £40 for up to 4 passengers.

This is the best option for a late night check in, as you can check in straight away.

Contact Karl Wendland on +44 7973 882 259 or info@aysedinburgh.com for more details.

 

Hop on a tram

If you fancy the tram it’s a very pleasant journey. The trams operate from the airport to the city centre fairly regularly between 6am and 11pm. We would recommend you get a return ticket for the best value as the return journey is open-ended meaning you can leave after your stay on the same ticket.

Return tram tickets cost £8.50 for adults and £4.50 for children.

Hop off at the York Place stop for the York Place apartments and the Rodney Place Apartments.

Have a look at tram times and get more information here.

 

Catch a bus

The Airlink bus is fast and frequent into the City Centre. This bus service operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with buses every 10 minutes during the day. The journey time into the city  is approximately 30 minutes.

Look at bus times here.

 

Train it into town

You can also get a train from ‘Edinburgh Gateway’, a short walk from the airport, to ‘Edinburgh Waverley’ for only £3.50. The train only takes between 13 and 15 minutes, so its certainly a good option for anyone in a hurry. Waverley Station is very central to Edinburgh, making getting to any of the apartments easy.

Check out train times and prices from Edinburgh Gateway into town here.

 

If you have any questions about getting to the apartments or to let us know your arrival time,

call us on 0131 556 3840 or email using enquiries@destinationedinburghapartments.co.uk

We’ll look forward to seeing you soon!

Top 10 Tips for Your Stay in Edinburgh

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No one knows Edinburgh quite like the locals do, so take it from us, we’ve got the best tips for making the most of your stay in the capital.

 

Go high for the best views

Whilst the view of Edinburgh from the castle is great, a view with the castle in it is even better.  For the more energetic among you, a climb up Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park will undoubtedly give you spectacular views.  Alternatively a climb up Calton Hill will give you brilliant views of the castle along Princes Street.  If you’re not feeling quite so energetic then make your way to the National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street and head to the rooftop garden where you can almost reach out and touch the castle!

 

Breathe in the fresh air in one of the many city centre parks and gardens

Edinburgh is the UK’s greenest city so make the most of the wonderful parks on offer.  Not to be missed are the Princes Street Gardens.  Sitting in the old moat of the castle, the gardens offer an escape from busy Princes Street as well as a spectacular view of the castle.  The gardens even feature their own bear!

@destinationedinburgh

Watch out for the One O’Clock Gun

Keep your wits about you if you’re anywhere near the castle at 1pm Monday to Saturday.  In a tradition spanning over 150 years, a canon is fired to mark 1pm, frightening many unsuspecting tourists.  Originally fired to alert docked ships in Leith and on the Firth of Forth of the time, it’s now just a lovely attraction to the castle.

 

Planning in advance is key

To make the most of your time in the city, our best advice is to plan ahead.  If checking off the top tourist attractions is your priority then buying a Royal Edinburgh ticket in advance is a must.  Included in the ticket is entry to the Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Yacht Britannia, Palace of Holyrood House and Edinburgh Bus Tours.  We can sort one out for you, just let our team know and we’ll have the tickets ready for you on arrival.

 

Be prepared for glorious sunshine, thunderous rain and then more sunshine …

Scotland is typically known for its weather, not exactly the warmest of places but it is known for surprising its residents with all seasons in one day.  So be prepared and follow our advice: bring your rain jacket or buy yourself a poncho!

 

Go off the beaten track

Some of the best places and sights in Edinburgh are further away from the hustle and bustle of Princes Street and the old town.  We’d recommend a walk along the Water of Leith, where you can take photos of Dean Village, then wander along to Stockbridge Market for lunch, or continue further down to Leith for a fantastic selection of award-winning restaurants including The Kitchin.

 

Get your bearings and map it out

Edinburgh is a very pedestrian friendly city but it can be easy to get lost.  Make yourself familiar with where your apartment is and the bus routes nearby so that you will always find your way home.  All out apartments have maps available for guests so make sure to take one with you when you go exploring.

 

Jump on a Lothian bus

Edinburgh has a fantastic bus network spanning the city so definitely make use of them when exploring the capital.  It’s just £1.70 for an adult flat fayre and £4 for a day ticket which gives you unlimited access all day.  Keep in mind that the buses don’t give change, and if you’re staying for longer it might be worthwhile downloading the app (the minimum top up for the app is £10).  Check out timetables and routes here

 

Do as the locals do and eat brunch

There is no shortage of delightful places to have brunch in the city, take advantage of Southpour, next door to our Southside apartments and receive 20% off when you show your apartment key or a Destination Edinburgh Apartments business card.

 

Stay with Destination Edinburgh Apartments

If you weren’t convinced already, then get booked in with us to explore Edinburgh, see the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and stay in our sister apartments with Destination Edinburgh Apartments in either our Rodney Street, Southside or York Place apartments.  All are self-catering apartments, they give you the freedom to make your stay your own.  Our Rodney Street apartments come with a free parking space and the views from our York Place apartments are not to be missed.  AND if you book directly with us then you’ll receive a free gift!  We look forward to welcoming you soon.