From castles to cozy cafes

Edinburgh

Like most visitors to Edinburgh, my journey began with the city’s most iconic landmark, Edinburgh Castle. Proudly atop Castle Rock, its imposing silhouette a reminder of the city’s medieval origins and historic past. As I wandered through its historic room and battlements, I was transported back in time, easily imagining the lives of the royals, knights – and prisoners, who had once called this fortress home.

As I do on almost every trip I take, I like to get the big sites, the most popular ones checked off my list first. In Edinburgh, that meant walking the Royal Mile, visiting St. Giles’ Cathedral and strolling through the Princes Street Gardens, home of the famous Scott Monument dedicated to the city’s beloved Sir Walter Scott. I did all of this in a day, without rushing and it was wonderful. But now it was time to eat, drink, shop and explore.

Dining & Drinking:

To haggis or not to haggis, that is the question. And what a question it is. I took a long time to ponder this one and at the end of my introspection I decided I had to give it a go. For those who don’t know what haggis is, it’s a traditional Scottish dish made from parts of a sheep or calf…and from here, it’s best to Google it. Not having a clue where to find the best haggis, I asked three strangers; the doorman at my hotel, a lovely woman in a nearby shop and a businessman apparently in a hurry. Two out of three told me, rather quickly, Arcade Haggis & Whisky Pub was the place to go. So, off I went. I won’t go through every detail of my culinary adventure, except to say that the haggis wasn’t as shocking as I thought it would be and I was quite pleased with myself. It may also have helped that I had a wonderful glass of whisky. And regardless of whether you chose to haggis or not to haggis, Arcade has a terrific menu and more than 100 whiskies to discover.

Walking in the Old Town, I stopped into Under the Stairs for lunch. A delightful menu, great cocktails and for my friend who joined me, we were happy to see vegetarian plates available. Good food at good prices. A perfect lunch.

It seems that wherever you are in Edinburgh, you’re steps away from a pub. With so many to choose from, at the top of my list is Sheep Heid Inn. It’s Scotland’s oldest public house, established in 1360. It’s centrally located in the city and perfect for a pint, lunch or dinner.

The city offers a few rooftop bars, but for the view, nothing beats Cold Town House. Casual dining, great drinks and a take your breath away view of the castle, if you’re looking for a pizza, drink and place to kick back and soak in the city, this is the place.

Always trying to satisfy my sweet tooth I saw a glimmering pink neon sign “Sugar Daddy’s Bakery” That alone was enough to pull me in! Surrounded by cookies, cakes, cupcakes, and donuts, I grabbed a chocolate cupcake -and it was heaven. And the surprise was that everything is 100% gluten free!

One special place I didn’t get to experience, but friends tell me is fantastic is The Gardener’s Cottage in London Road Gardens. An intimate and elegant dining experience with the finest local and seasonal produce choices, the lunch and dinner menus I’ve reviewed are exciting and unique. This spot is at the top of my must do list when I return. And keep in mind, book a table well in advance.

Sightseeing:

I admit it. I love visiting castles, estate homes, mansions, and historic buildings. And in Scotland, there’s plenty to choose from.

The most obvious (after Edinburgh Castle) is the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The King’s official residence in Edinburgh, the palace is connected to Scotland’s most famous figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots and of course, Bonnie Prince Charlie. With remnants dating from 1528, the palace offers a real insider’s view into Scottish history and royal life. And if you’re traveling with kids, this is a must visit. The palace offers drawing activities and trails, interactive displays and arts and crafts events.

The National Galleries: Portrait is one of the city’s hidden gems. Built in a neo-gothic palace, the museum tells the story of Scottish history through imagery. Sculpture, paintings, and much more are presented in an incredible gallery and make sure to look up and take in the Zodiac Ceiling in the Great Hall. The ceiling alone is worth the visit. And best of all, admission is free!

One of Edinburgh’s great neighborhoods, Stockbridge is more like a village within a city. Cobblestone streets, floral window baskets and endless charm, make it feel like you’ve left the city for the countryside. It provides a great insight into life in Edinburgh and has lots of great cafes, shops and restaurants. Try to visit on Sunday, when you’ll have the chance to mix with the locals at the Stockbridge Farmers Market.

If you’re a fan of the hit television show “Outlander” you won’t want to miss a stroll to Bakehouse Close. Just off the Royal Mile (next to the Museum of Edinburgh). One of the city’s many alleyways and passages, fans and nonfans alike will enjoy this step back in time to the early 1700’s.

I was a bit unsure about visiting Surgeon’s Hall Museums. The name sort of freaked me out and I had visions of a big old creepy museum. Happy to be wrong. While it may not be appropriate for children, the museum is three museums in one:  Pathology, Surgery and Dental. If you’re looking for the unusual, this is for you!

Where to Stay:

I was very fortunate to experience the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian. This historic hotel has been welcoming travelers since the early 1900’s this Victorian style hotel is the height of elegance in the city. I often suggest to travelers that even if you’re not staying at one of the grand hotels in any city, stop in for a drink or coffee and treat yourself to a moment of luxury.

The Scotsman is another wonderful luxury hotel, albeit without the price tag of the other luxury hotels in the city. This hotel is unique because it’s actually made up of several buildings all retaining their history with completely modern amenities. And their Grand Café may be one of the most beautiful spots in town.

If you enjoy the feeling of staying in a private home, The Roseate Estate is my top choice. This boutique style property, just minutes from Haymarket railway station, feels as if you’re in a private club. They offer 35 beautifully appointed rooms as well as a bar, restaurant, and private garden.

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh offers those seeking a trendier vibe the perfect spot in the city. Located in the Old City, the hotel has great room, plenty of eating and drinking venues, a gym and something I really like, dog friendly rooms complete with a pet bed, food and water bowls….and treats!

Shopping:

For made in Scotland clothing, Heritage of Scotland is my choice. They have nearly every clan pattern known and their available on beautifully crafted scarves, capes, and kilts. They also offer a great selection of hoodies and t-shirts plus an array of Harry Potter related items.

It’s always special to bring back a handmade, one of a kind souvenir. Check out Perre Handmade Jewellery for beautiful pieces, many featuring bees, butterflies, birds and wonderful Celtic designs. And as jewelry goes, it won’t break the bank.

A shop where you can find stationary, craft supplies, ceramics, notepads, homewares, art prints, lampshades and much more is Curiouser + Curiouser. You won’t know where to look first, but if you’re seeking something unique and Scottish, you’ll find it here.

Another great shop is Old Town Context. Here you will find classic home accessories, beautiful globes, artwork, clocks as well as high quality souvenirs. This shop is one of the stars of the independent shopping scene in the city and a great place to browse and buy.

There’s fudge and then there’s Fudge Kitchen. With a tag line of “find your fudge”, this shop specializes in premium, handmade fudge made with all natural ingredients, the old fashioned way. Traditional fudge, vegan fudge, nut free fudge and even fudge making experiences make this “the” place for fudge in all of Edinburgh.

travel to Madrid - Europe Travel Guide

edinburgh’s

Best Food

& Drinks

1. Arcade Haggis & Whisky Pub

The place to go to for your first Haggis.

2. Under The Stairs

Delightful menu, great cocktails and good selection of vegetarian plates.

3. Sheep Heid Inn

Scotland’s oldest public house, established in 1360.

4. Cold Town House

Casual dining, great drinks and a take your breath away view of the castle.

5. Gardener’s Cottage

An intimate and elegant dining experience with the finest local and seasonal produce choices.

mORE eUROPE

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