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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.  

Brighten up those Dark Winter Nights in St. Andrew’s Square

Running from 5th February – 28th March 2016, The KEYFRAMES located within St. Andrew Square will be sure to brighten up those dark winter nights. The Lighting show is on every evening from Sunset till approximately Midnight. It is comprised of numerous “stick men” which illuminate in tune with music. They can be seen dancing and even climbing trees – great for families. For more info on this event please see this article from Edinburgh Council.

If you are coming to Edinburgh over this period we strongly recommend you visit St. Andrews at night to experience this event at least once.

York Place Apartments: Perfect accommodation for a wedding

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If you’re planning to have your wedding in Edinburgh, our York Place Apartments provide a brilliant central location to explore the city. Also, the high ceilings and wide rooms give enough space for pre-wedding preparations and socialising. If you are interested in booking an apartment with us for your wedding or on behalf of someone else please let us know. We can add the finishing touches to make your stay that bit special.

Commemorate The 144th Open at St Andrews with some Golf Memorabilia!

 

Tankard

Golf tankards and hipflasks are an ideal way to commemorate your time at The 144th Open at St Andrews this July. Choose from a variety of golf themed tankards, including the pewter golf handle (pictured above) or the St Andrews – The Old Course – for an added element of nostalgia. Personalise your tankard or hipflask with engraving or why not gift one to your golf buddy in a stylish presentation.

http://buyatankard.com/1-pint-st-andrews-golf-course-picture-tankard

http://buyahipflask.com/6oz-classic-pewter-pocket-flask-with-crossed-golf-clubs-design

 

 

 

 

tankard 2

For an even bigger nod to the infamous tournament, the Pewter Claret Jug is just the ticket. At 8” tall, it’s the perfect miniature replica of The Golf Champion Trophy.

http://buyatankard.com/8-inch-claret-jug

Not a UK resident? Don’t worry, delivery is worldwide so your souvenir can be waiting for you when you return back home.

Are you a true Scotsman?

At buyakilt.com you’ll find a range of good quality traditional Scottish attire at affordable prices. So why not get into the Scottish Spirit and purchase one today and make your stay in Edinburgh that bit more authentic.

http://buyakilt.com/

 

New dedicated Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo website

“We are proud to be an Official Travel Trade partner for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and over 10,000 clients have been with us to this wonderful event and breathtaking City! Always a sell-out event, book your package now to avoid disappointment!”

Massed_Pipes_and_Drums

Glory Days Ltd have just launched our new dedicated Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Travel Packages website.

Homecoming Scotland 2014

Homecoming Scotland 2014 will add to an already impressive holiday and stay-cation location that is Edinburgh (and the rest of Scotland!).
Huge amount of events planned with some fantastic highlights including the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and Bannockburn Live as part of Stirling’s big weekend.

The Visit Scotland article will help you plan a great Scottish trip!

http://www.visitscotland.com/see-do/homecoming-scotland-2014/

Where will you be coming home from this year?

hc_homecoming_scotland

Lonely Planet names Scotland 3rd best country to visit

Lonely Planet has named Scotland the third best country to visit just behind Brazil and Antarctica. There is so much to see and do and Edinburgh is one of the worlds most beautiful cities

What are your experiences of Scotland as a tourist destination?