Learn Important Scottish Slang

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

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

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

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

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.

 

Coming to Edinburgh and not sure what do?

Why not check out the . Located only a a few metres from the Castle Esplanade, this is definitely one of Edinburgh’s most underrated tourist attraction. Lots of visual trickery + a great view of Edinburgh from the top!

If you are looking for a weekend break – we have availability throughout November and December. Book direct and receive best price guaranteed and free gift on arrival!

Royal Mile Light Show Held Over Festive Period

Throughout the Festive Period, The Royal Mile in Edinburgh will be transformed into a spectacular light show that will utilise 60,000 lights.

The show which will run from the 30th November – 24th December is sponsored by Virgin Money and Scotland’s Winter Festivals. The event will show twice daily at 6.30pm and 8.30pm. For more information click on this link Royal Mile Light Show

Things to do in Edinburgh

Coming to Edinburgh but not sure what to do? I’d recommend you check out this article: https://ow.ly/RgUXf . Washing your face with the dew from Arthur’s Seat is a must!

Edinburgh as original inspiration for Game of Thrones

Who would have thought Edinburgh was the original inspiration for Game of Thrones. For those of you that have yet to visit Edinburgh this interactive map will give you a perspective of where the various landmarks are situated. Simply click on the link below:

Game of Thrones Edinburgh

Edinburgh Hogmanay Packages Now on Sale!

Our sister group Destination Edinburgh is now selling packages for this year’s Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party. There is a variety of hotels on offer as part of these packages so why not browse through our selection by clicking on the link below

Destination Edinburgh Hogmanay Packages