Edinburgh and the Lothians
Scotland’s capital is a city of contrasts where the historic meets the cutting edge, medieval architecture blends with contemporary, and the parks and gardens provide a quiet space for reflection.
Majestic Edinburgh Castle sits high on a crag overlooking the Old Town, a real icon in this beautiful city. From here you can walk down the Royal Mile to find an array of atmospheric alleyways and closes, several interesting attractions and many stores for those perfect souvenirs. Step inside time-honoured kiltmakers, Scottish craft shops, antique stores and fudge kitchens before reaching the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Scottish Parliament.
Princes Street is great for high-street stores while George Street’s grand Georgian buildings house designer labels as well as some wonderful restaurants and bars.
Venture outside Edinburgh to the Lothians and you will feel as if you are a million miles from the bustle of the city. With wonderful countryside, beautiful beaches, several castles and a wealth of wildlife, there is plenty to discover. Why not head to one of Scotland’s finest stately homes, Hopetoun House, or visit Rosslyn Chapel to see intricate carvings such as the Apprentice Pillar?
Golfers can enjoy a range of links courses including Gullane, which boasts dramatic views across the Firth of Forth, the Musselburgh Golf Club, where the Open Championship has taken place and Longniddry, set against one of the finest stretches of golfing coastline in the country.
Explore the Scottish Seabird Centre at North Berwick or if you are an aviation enthusiast the National Museum of Flight at East Fortune provides the perfect opportunity to learn the history of the airfield as well as climbing inside Concorde!
Enjoy Edinburgh’s world-renowned festivals, dining experiences and myths and legends before journeying out of the historic capital to see what you can find.
