Always atmospheric, steeped in history and stunning to look at, Edinburgh was our destination for a short Easter break. Visitors to the Scottish capital really are spoilt for choice with things to do. Here are some of the highlights of our trip:
1. The Ghost Bus Tour
An absolute scream, in more ways than one, from start to finish. What better way to learn about the most haunted city in Europe than a comedy horror bus tour! The company’s promotion leaflet said that Johnny Depp ‘loved it’ when he did the London Ghost Bus Tour and I can understand why. There was definitely more than a hint of Captain Jack Sparrow about our host as he regaled us with tales of Edinburgh’s murky past and scared and entertained us in equal measure. He was terrific! You might find yourself taking an active role in the proceedings too. It turned out that I was sitting on a seat belonging to a ghost and they weren’t pleased. All good, harmless fun – we loved it!
2. The Scotch Whisky Experience
At the top of the Royal Mile, just before you get to the imposing Castle, is the Scotch Whisky Experience, which is well worth a visit even if you are not a big whisky fan. We went on a barrel ride through a replica distillery to find out how whisky is produced, watched an excellent film about the different regions of Scotland which give their own characteristics to the ‘water of life’ and found out about the history of blending. The tour ended with a tasting as you perused the world’s largest collection of Scotch whisky. Fascinating stuff! I chose to taste an Islay malt (it was Bowmore), having had a great holiday on the island many years ago.
Before we left we had some delicious Scottish specialities in the Amber Whisky Bar.
3. The Scottish National Portrait Gallery
I feel that this excellent gallery is somewhat in the shadow of the larger, more centrally located Scottish National Gallery but it really was an excellent place to spend a rainy afternoon. The red sandstone building itself is a work of art and we enjoyed the fascinating picture collection of famous Scots, past and present. I particularly enjoyed the photographic portraits and the library. The café had a nice cake collection too.
4. Scottish Parliament
You can visit the Scottish Parliament free of charge and it is easy to see why the building won awards. The shape of the debating chamber is supposed to encourage consensus. Great idea!
5. The National Museum of Scotland
You could spend all day here, soak up facts about the history of Scotland, be amazed by technological developments and inventions and even see the taxidermied remains of Dolly the sheep!
My highlights were:
6. The Real Mary King’s Close
I would also highly recommend The Real Mary King’s Close on the Royal Mile. You will be transported back in time while exploring a warren of old streets and homes which have been discovered behind and beneath modern buildings. Our guide told stories of ghosts and plague victims and it really made the past come alive. Sadly, photos were not permitted.
7. The Palace of Holyroodhouse
The gloomy weather could not detract from this lovely palace, the Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh. We did the audio tour which provided plenty of information as you made your way through the rooms (again, no photos allowed), but gave you the chance to find out more if you wanted. Have a look at the official photos on the Palace website. I particularly enjoyed Mary Queen of Scots’ rooms. The turbulence and tragedy of her life seemed so far removed from the grandeur of the Great Gallery where the Queen still confers honours today.
As usual, the holiday ended with us feeling there was so much more to do. Fortunately, Edinburgh is not far away. We’ll be back soon…
Very interesting review and lots of excellent pictures. I think I even spotted the author on one picture!
Yes, the author is on a picture – looking out of this world!