Guidebook for Edinburgh
Parks & Nature
Holyrood Park is a short walk from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile in the heart of the city. It is within a 640 acre Royal Park adjacent to Holyrood Palace. The parks highest point is Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano, and sits 251m above sea level giving excellent view of the city. The hike is mildly challenging but the views are spectacular and I would thoroughly recommend the trek if the skies are clear. Public Transport: Bus to Holyrood Palace, east end of Royal Mile or use car park near Holyrood Palace.
1859 locals recommend
Arthur's Seat
Holyrood Park is a short walk from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile in the heart of the city. It is within a 640 acre Royal Park adjacent to Holyrood Palace. The parks highest point is Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano, and sits 251m above sea level giving excellent view of the city. The hike is mildly challenging but the views are spectacular and I would thoroughly recommend the trek if the skies are clear. Public Transport: Bus to Holyrood Palace, east end of Royal Mile or use car park near Holyrood Palace.
The Botanic Gardens are a centre for the study of plants, their diversity and conservation, as well as a popular tourist attraction. The lavish gardens offer visitors peace and tranquillity amongst 72 acres of stunning scenery.
Open all year, the Garden hosts a popular programme of events, exhibitions and guided tours. Make sure to check out what's on before you visit. I go at least once a week - it revitalizes your soul. Note: admission to the garden is free!
1227 locals recommend
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Arboretum PlaceThe Botanic Gardens are a centre for the study of plants, their diversity and conservation, as well as a popular tourist attraction. The lavish gardens offer visitors peace and tranquillity amongst 72 acres of stunning scenery.
Open all year, the Garden hosts a popular programme of events, exhibitions and guided tours. Make sure to check out what's on before you visit. I go at least once a week - it revitalizes your soul. Note: admission to the garden is free!
Our local park - very close to our apartment. Walk through this to reach the Botanics. It has a small but good play park for children and a hut to buy a coffee. Great for sitting on the grass above the pond in the summer with a picnic - fantastic views of the city from that vantage point. Lovely to go for a run, around the perimeter, if that is your thing!
256 locals recommend
Inverleith Park
Our local park - very close to our apartment. Walk through this to reach the Botanics. It has a small but good play park for children and a hut to buy a coffee. Great for sitting on the grass above the pond in the summer with a picnic - fantastic views of the city from that vantage point. Lovely to go for a run, around the perimeter, if that is your thing!
A different part of the city - if you go to the museum on Chambers Street you could take a walk in this area afterwards. Stunning views of Arthur's Seat from here too. Good for picnic in the summer months.
615 locals recommend
The Meadows
Melville DriveA different part of the city - if you go to the museum on Chambers Street you could take a walk in this area afterwards. Stunning views of Arthur's Seat from here too. Good for picnic in the summer months.
Anyone staying with a car who likes to walk - then the Pentlands are amazing. We have various leaflets and suggested walks for this area in our flat.
121 locals recommend
Pentland Hills Regional Park
Anyone staying with a car who likes to walk - then the Pentlands are amazing. We have various leaflets and suggested walks for this area in our flat.
Holyrood Park is a royal park in central Edinburgh, Scotland about 1 mile to the east of Edinburgh Castle. It is open to the public. It has an array of hills, lochs, glens, ridges, basalt cliffs, and patches of gorse, providing a wild piece of highland landscape within its 650-acre area. Parking is available at Broad Pavement, St Margaret's Loch and Duddingston Loch car parks.
280 locals recommend
Holyrood Park
Queen's DriveHolyrood Park is a royal park in central Edinburgh, Scotland about 1 mile to the east of Edinburgh Castle. It is open to the public. It has an array of hills, lochs, glens, ridges, basalt cliffs, and patches of gorse, providing a wild piece of highland landscape within its 650-acre area. Parking is available at Broad Pavement, St Margaret's Loch and Duddingston Loch car parks.
Great zoo to see the giant pandas: Yang Guang and Tian Tian after a new deal has recently been reached with China, meaning the pandas will not now return to them until the end of 2023.
308 locals recommend
Edinburgh Zoo
134 Corstorphine RdGreat zoo to see the giant pandas: Yang Guang and Tian Tian after a new deal has recently been reached with China, meaning the pandas will not now return to them until the end of 2023.
Fabulous views of the city and Arthur's Seat - walk up to the top of Blackford Hill and back along the burn to the pond. It's well signposted for any walks when you arrive. Aim for the car park at the Royal Observatory, or park in a side street by the entrance to the pond. This is one of our regular walks in our family. To get to Blackford Pond take Lothian bus service number 41 to Cluny Gardens, or if driving there is plenty of free parking in the area (or drive up to the Royal Observatory car park area and walk from there).
162 locals recommend
Blackford Hill and Pond
4 Charterhall RdFabulous views of the city and Arthur's Seat - walk up to the top of Blackford Hill and back along the burn to the pond. It's well signposted for any walks when you arrive. Aim for the car park at the Royal Observatory, or park in a side street by the entrance to the pond. This is one of our regular walks in our family. To get to Blackford Pond take Lothian bus service number 41 to Cluny Gardens, or if driving there is plenty of free parking in the area (or drive up to the Royal Observatory car park area and walk from there).
Leith and the shore area is really pretty and there are some great restaurants and pubs in this area. We walk there along the cycle paths from Stockbridge via the Rocheid Path. The Water of Leith can be followed for part of the route and it is a very attractive walk.
162 locals recommend
Leith
Leith and the shore area is really pretty and there are some great restaurants and pubs in this area. We walk there along the cycle paths from Stockbridge via the Rocheid Path. The Water of Leith can be followed for part of the route and it is a very attractive walk.
A beautiful Edwardian home with lovely grounds and a tranquil Japanese garden and stunning views of the Firth of Forth. There is free parking in the grounds and you can book to play croquet. Due to the pandemic the interior may not be accessible but you can admire the exterior for free! It's open all year round. We still love to visit the grounds and afterwards go to Cramond Island (walking across the causeway when the tide is out). Catch a number 41 Lothian bus from Queensferry Road to Cramond if you do not have a car.
43 locals recommend
Lauriston Castle
2 Cramond Rd SA beautiful Edwardian home with lovely grounds and a tranquil Japanese garden and stunning views of the Firth of Forth. There is free parking in the grounds and you can book to play croquet. Due to the pandemic the interior may not be accessible but you can admire the exterior for free! It's open all year round. We still love to visit the grounds and afterwards go to Cramond Island (walking across the causeway when the tide is out). Catch a number 41 Lothian bus from Queensferry Road to Cramond if you do not have a car.
It offers an incredible panorama of the city, with great views of Arthur's Seat and boasts some monuments of its own, including one inspired by the Parthenon. And usually on April 30 each year it becomes the focal point for the incandescent celebrations of the Beltane Fire Festival. After going here you could go for lunch at Howies Restaurant on Waterloo Place (best to book a lunch slot beforehand). Or you could book a meal at The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage, which is located at the very top of Carlton Hill and has the most astonishing views of the city.
1098 locals recommend
Calton Hill
Calton HillIt offers an incredible panorama of the city, with great views of Arthur's Seat and boasts some monuments of its own, including one inspired by the Parthenon. And usually on April 30 each year it becomes the focal point for the incandescent celebrations of the Beltane Fire Festival. After going here you could go for lunch at Howies Restaurant on Waterloo Place (best to book a lunch slot beforehand). Or you could book a meal at The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage, which is located at the very top of Carlton Hill and has the most astonishing views of the city.
Situated in the Duddingston area of the city - you can catch a Lothian bus (which is what we do). If you have a car then it is an easy journey. I love this garden and the local Kirk too. We would combine this with a visit to the Sheep Heid Inn for lunch and have then tackled Arthur's Seat after that .....!
57 locals recommend
Dr Neil's Garden
5 Old Church LnSituated in the Duddingston area of the city - you can catch a Lothian bus (which is what we do). If you have a car then it is an easy journey. I love this garden and the local Kirk too. We would combine this with a visit to the Sheep Heid Inn for lunch and have then tackled Arthur's Seat after that .....!
Just love walking across the tidal causeway to Cramond Island and then back along the River Almond. There is a free car park, or you can catch a number 41 Lothian bus to Cramond from Queensferry Road. Make sure you check out tide times before any visit. Public toilets are available too.
124 locals recommend
Cramond Island
Just love walking across the tidal causeway to Cramond Island and then back along the River Almond. There is a free car park, or you can catch a number 41 Lothian bus to Cramond from Queensferry Road. Make sure you check out tide times before any visit. Public toilets are available too.
Love walking through these gardens with the fabulous view of the castle. Note that there are two separate garden areas on Princes Street (divided by the Mound). East Princes Street Gardens run from The Mound to Waverley Bridge, and cover 8.5 acres (3.4 ha).
The larger West Princes Street Gardens cover 29 acres (12 ha) and extend to the adjacent churches of St. John's and St. Cuthbert's, near Lothian Road in the west. In the larger garden,
find the splendid Ross fountain which has now been restored to its full glory with amazing views of the castle from that point.
Find the gorgeous flower clock with the cuckoo hatch at the end of the gardens which exit onto The Mound (summer months only).
Find the lovely huge bronze baby elephant statue.
There is a small children's play park and public toilets close to the fountain end of the gardens. In the summer you can buy a drink/ice cream in that section too.
Take a picnic and sit on the grass in the summer.
East Princes Street Gardens
Love walking through these gardens with the fabulous view of the castle. Note that there are two separate garden areas on Princes Street (divided by the Mound). East Princes Street Gardens run from The Mound to Waverley Bridge, and cover 8.5 acres (3.4 ha).
The larger West Princes Street Gardens cover 29 acres (12 ha) and extend to the adjacent churches of St. John's and St. Cuthbert's, near Lothian Road in the west. In the larger garden,
find the splendid Ross fountain which has now been restored to its full glory with amazing views of the castle from that point.
Find the gorgeous flower clock with the cuckoo hatch at the end of the gardens which exit onto The Mound (summer months only).
Find the lovely huge bronze baby elephant statue.
There is a small children's play park and public toilets close to the fountain end of the gardens. In the summer you can buy a drink/ice cream in that section too.
Take a picnic and sit on the grass in the summer.
Arts & Culture
The castle is a world famous icon of Scotland and part of Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site. It was recently voted top UK Heritage Attraction in the British Travel Awards and is Scotland’s number one paid-for tourist attraction. I would advise booking your tickets online in order to beat the queues. Once up at the castle you can enjoy the spectacular views and rich history by taking a free live or audio guided tour. When you have finished exploring all the castle has to offer, there are two excellent cafes to sit and relax in. Arrive in time for the firing of the one o'clock gun (every day except Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day).
1961 locals recommend
Edinburgh Castle
CastlehillThe castle is a world famous icon of Scotland and part of Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site. It was recently voted top UK Heritage Attraction in the British Travel Awards and is Scotland’s number one paid-for tourist attraction. I would advise booking your tickets online in order to beat the queues. Once up at the castle you can enjoy the spectacular views and rich history by taking a free live or audio guided tour. When you have finished exploring all the castle has to offer, there are two excellent cafes to sit and relax in. Arrive in time for the firing of the one o'clock gun (every day except Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day).
Set in a great red sandstone neo-gothic palace which sits proudly on the city’s skyline, the gallery holds the national collections of portraits, all of which are of, but not necessarily by, Scots. Located on Queen Street with a gorgeous entrance hall and stunning library (plus a great cafe for lunch or a coffee) and it's free to visit!
Love the spectacular entrance foyer, the library and the cafe here - they do great lunches for a good price. We go often!
523 locals recommend
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
1 Queen StSet in a great red sandstone neo-gothic palace which sits proudly on the city’s skyline, the gallery holds the national collections of portraits, all of which are of, but not necessarily by, Scots. Located on Queen Street with a gorgeous entrance hall and stunning library (plus a great cafe for lunch or a coffee) and it's free to visit!
Love the spectacular entrance foyer, the library and the cafe here - they do great lunches for a good price. We go often!
Modern One - across the road from Modern Two. Children love the landscaped area around the ponds. It is visually stunning.
The Antony Gormley statue at the front entrance is a fun photo opportunity.
Some exhibitions require payment but most of the building is free to view.
Great cafe - especially on a good day when you can sit outside in the courtyard area. Really pretty.
Walk down to the Water of Leith from behind Modern One (find the gate and go down the brick steps to the river and find another statue of Antony Gormley. Follow the river all the way back to Stockbridge (via Dean Village).
1010 locals recommend
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
75 Belford RdModern One - across the road from Modern Two. Children love the landscaped area around the ponds. It is visually stunning.
The Antony Gormley statue at the front entrance is a fun photo opportunity.
Some exhibitions require payment but most of the building is free to view.
Great cafe - especially on a good day when you can sit outside in the courtyard area. Really pretty.
Walk down to the Water of Leith from behind Modern One (find the gate and go down the brick steps to the river and find another statue of Antony Gormley. Follow the river all the way back to Stockbridge (via Dean Village).
Surgeons' Hall Museums
Nicolson StreetAnother great city museum - Google it.
If you like art - this place usually has some wonderful exhibitions on throughout the year.
39 locals recommend
Royal Scottish Academy
The MoundIf you like art - this place usually has some wonderful exhibitions on throughout the year.
National Galleries of Scotland
The MoundFor all lovers of art.
Located in the Leith area of the city. You can walk back to Stockbridge along the Water of Leith Walkway. Loads of quirky pubs and restaurants can be found in the Shore area of Leith.
630 locals recommend
Royal Yacht Britannia
Ocean DriveLocated in the Leith area of the city. You can walk back to Stockbridge along the Water of Leith Walkway. Loads of quirky pubs and restaurants can be found in the Shore area of Leith.
If you are interested in history this is the place for you. Love visiting in December. This is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. You need to pay, so book your tickets on line. Open throughout the year, the Palace of Holyroodhouse stands at the end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile.
462 locals recommend
Palace of Holyroodhouse
CanongateIf you are interested in history this is the place for you. Love visiting in December. This is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. You need to pay, so book your tickets on line. Open throughout the year, the Palace of Holyroodhouse stands at the end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile.
Good for families. It takes visitors through history from the Big Bang to the modern day. There are often lots of different events, so it is best to look on their website for details beforehand. You need to pay to enter.
303 locals recommend
Dynamic Earth
Holyrood RoadGood for families. It takes visitors through history from the Big Bang to the modern day. There are often lots of different events, so it is best to look on their website for details beforehand. You need to pay to enter.
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
549 CastlehillChildren of all ages love this place.
On Charlotte's Square. Bring your National Trust card and then you can enter for free. Great introductory film and lovely to look around one of the furnished Georgian homes in all its glory.
36 locals recommend
Georgian House
7 Charlotte SquareOn Charlotte's Square. Bring your National Trust card and then you can enter for free. Great introductory film and lovely to look around one of the furnished Georgian homes in all its glory.
Family attraction - showing how a wealthy merchant would have lived in a house first bought in 1617. National Trust - so free to holders of that card.
33 locals recommend
Gladstone's Land
477B LawnmarketFamily attraction - showing how a wealthy merchant would have lived in a house first bought in 1617. National Trust - so free to holders of that card.
Free to visit site - amazing views of city from up here. Take your camera!
1098 locals recommend
Calton Hill
Calton HillFree to visit site - amazing views of city from up here. Take your camera!
We love to visit the astonishingly beautiful Thistle Chapel inside St Giles (you need to pay to access that particular part but it is so worth it!).
152 locals recommend
St Giles' Cathedral
High StreetWe love to visit the astonishingly beautiful Thistle Chapel inside St Giles (you need to pay to access that particular part but it is so worth it!).
Mary King's Close is a historic close located under buildings on the Royal Mile, in the historic Old Town area of Edinburgh. You need to book and pay for this attraction.
373 locals recommend
The Real Mary King's Close
2 High StMary King's Close is a historic close located under buildings on the Royal Mile, in the historic Old Town area of Edinburgh. You need to book and pay for this attraction.
The Queen's Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse, opened in 2002 to celebrate Her Majesty The Queen’s Golden Jubilee. It was constructed in the shell of the former Holyrood Free Church and Duchess of Gordon’s School, which stood at the entrance of the Palace.
The Queen's Gallery provides a purpose-built venue for a rolling programme of events and exhibitions of works from the Royal Collection.
There is a great cafe with views of Arthur's seat - lovely for a coffee any time of the day if you are walking to the bottom of the Royal Mile.
45 locals recommend
The Queen's Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Queen's Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse, opened in 2002 to celebrate Her Majesty The Queen’s Golden Jubilee. It was constructed in the shell of the former Holyrood Free Church and Duchess of Gordon’s School, which stood at the entrance of the Palace.
The Queen's Gallery provides a purpose-built venue for a rolling programme of events and exhibitions of works from the Royal Collection.
There is a great cafe with views of Arthur's seat - lovely for a coffee any time of the day if you are walking to the bottom of the Royal Mile.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
43-45 High StGreat for children - look up their programme.
Our daughter and her friends loved this attraction in their early teens.
151 locals recommend
The Edinburgh Dungeon
31 Market StOur daughter and her friends loved this attraction in their early teens.
Love this place as exhibitions are usually free and really good too. Look up their latest programme.
34 locals recommend
City Art Centre
2 Market StLove this place as exhibitions are usually free and really good too. Look up their latest programme.
Located at the foot of the Royal Mile (opposite Holyrood Castle) - always interesting to view this building - love or hate it! Book on the internet for a free tour.
314 locals recommend
Scottish Parliament Building
Located at the foot of the Royal Mile (opposite Holyrood Castle) - always interesting to view this building - love or hate it! Book on the internet for a free tour.
Dovecot is a world-renowned tapestry studio in the heart of Edinburgh and a landmark centre for contemporary art, craft and design, with a small but good cafe. I love to visit this place and usually combine it with a visit to Blackwell's bookshop too.
Established in 1912, Dovecot continues a century-long heritage of collaboration with international artists to make exceptional handwoven tapestries and gun-tufted rugs. It currently has a exhibition running from 28 January 2022 to 11 June 2022: The Art of Wallpaper Morris & Co. (If you love the work of William Morris, this is the exhibition for you!). Buy your tickets via their website.
39 locals recommend
Dovecot Studios
10 Infirmary StDovecot is a world-renowned tapestry studio in the heart of Edinburgh and a landmark centre for contemporary art, craft and design, with a small but good cafe. I love to visit this place and usually combine it with a visit to Blackwell's bookshop too.
Established in 1912, Dovecot continues a century-long heritage of collaboration with international artists to make exceptional handwoven tapestries and gun-tufted rugs. It currently has a exhibition running from 28 January 2022 to 11 June 2022: The Art of Wallpaper Morris & Co. (If you love the work of William Morris, this is the exhibition for you!). Buy your tickets via their website.
I just love this stunning heritage building in the Fountainbridge area of the city - it has been totally renovated in a very sympathetic fashion (it used to be a rubber factory and brewery complex). They sell great prints which are created in their printmaking studio & often have good art exhibitions. They also have a gorgeous cafe.
14 locals recommend
Edinburgh Printmakers
1 Dundee StI just love this stunning heritage building in the Fountainbridge area of the city - it has been totally renovated in a very sympathetic fashion (it used to be a rubber factory and brewery complex). They sell great prints which are created in their printmaking studio & often have good art exhibitions. They also have a gorgeous cafe.
The Open Eye Gallery - established since 1982 and is one of Scotland’s leading contemporary private art galleries. Set in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town in a former Georgian townhouse, it offers an extensive and varied exhibition programme of Scottish contemporary painting, printmaking and applied arts throughout the year. I love looking around this gallery at 34 Abercroby Place - even the walk there from Stockbridge is architecturally gorgeous.
8 locals recommend
Open Eye Gallery
34 Abercromby PlThe Open Eye Gallery - established since 1982 and is one of Scotland’s leading contemporary private art galleries. Set in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town in a former Georgian townhouse, it offers an extensive and varied exhibition programme of Scottish contemporary painting, printmaking and applied arts throughout the year. I love looking around this gallery at 34 Abercroby Place - even the walk there from Stockbridge is architecturally gorgeous.
The Usher Hall is a great concert hall for all ages. It has hosted concerts and events since its construction in 1914 and can hold approximately 2,200 people in its recently restored auditorium, which is well loved by performers due to its acoustics. The programme for 2022 looks varied and fun. We have often walked from our flat and home again, to attend some great concerts. Look up their website for details.
139 locals recommend
The Usher Hall
Lothian RoadThe Usher Hall is a great concert hall for all ages. It has hosted concerts and events since its construction in 1914 and can hold approximately 2,200 people in its recently restored auditorium, which is well loved by performers due to its acoustics. The programme for 2022 looks varied and fun. We have often walked from our flat and home again, to attend some great concerts. Look up their website for details.
The Forth Road Bridge is a suspension bridge in east central Scotland. The bridge opened in 1964 and at the time was the longest suspension bridge in the world outside the United States. The bridge spans the Firth of Forth, connecting Edinburgh, at South Queensferry, to Fife, at North Queensferry. We have now walked across it twice as a family and there are great views of the other two bridges and the Firth of Forth. Catch a bus to South Queensferry from Queensferry Road (pretty small town to the West of Edinburgh) if you want to view the bridge and take some great photos - have lunch in one of the many pubs, cafes or restaurants (we like the Orocco Pier Hotel with its great views). Catch the train from Haymarket if you want to go across the rail bridge for spectacular views of the Forth Road Bridge - get off at North Queenferry (look up Scot Rail).
7 locals recommend
Forth Road Bridge
Forth Road BridgeThe Forth Road Bridge is a suspension bridge in east central Scotland. The bridge opened in 1964 and at the time was the longest suspension bridge in the world outside the United States. The bridge spans the Firth of Forth, connecting Edinburgh, at South Queensferry, to Fife, at North Queensferry. We have now walked across it twice as a family and there are great views of the other two bridges and the Firth of Forth. Catch a bus to South Queensferry from Queensferry Road (pretty small town to the West of Edinburgh) if you want to view the bridge and take some great photos - have lunch in one of the many pubs, cafes or restaurants (we like the Orocco Pier Hotel with its great views). Catch the train from Haymarket if you want to go across the rail bridge for spectacular views of the Forth Road Bridge - get off at North Queenferry (look up Scot Rail).
The current exhibition is free and runs to the 7 January 2024: Decades/The Art of Change 1900 to 1980. Spanning a period of dramatic change, moving from the birth of the motorcar to the dawn of the space race, each work on display is drawn from the Gallery’s world-class collection of modern art.The building itself is fabulous, with a nice cafe and great views of the city from the large front lawn. Twinned with Modern One across the road. Go and visit both galleries.
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (Modern Two)
75 Belford RoadThe current exhibition is free and runs to the 7 January 2024: Decades/The Art of Change 1900 to 1980. Spanning a period of dramatic change, moving from the birth of the motorcar to the dawn of the space race, each work on display is drawn from the Gallery’s world-class collection of modern art.The building itself is fabulous, with a nice cafe and great views of the city from the large front lawn. Twinned with Modern One across the road. Go and visit both galleries.
East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market will host plenty of traditional chalets showcasing the best in artisanal festive products and goods from local makers, full of handcrafted decorations and gifts for all the family. Open Daily from 25th November until 3rd January, from 10am - 10pm.
Edinburgh Christmas Market
Princes StreetEast Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market will host plenty of traditional chalets showcasing the best in artisanal festive products and goods from local makers, full of handcrafted decorations and gifts for all the family. Open Daily from 25th November until 3rd January, from 10am - 10pm.
Something for everyone in this museum and it's free! We just love it - suitable for all ages.
There is a fantastic viewing gallery on the top floor with great views of the city.
After departing this museum, walk down lovely Victoria Street and into the Grassmarket.
National Museum of Scotland
Something for everyone in this museum and it's free! We just love it - suitable for all ages.
There is a fantastic viewing gallery on the top floor with great views of the city.
After departing this museum, walk down lovely Victoria Street and into the Grassmarket.
Food Scene
Located in Stockbridge. Rustic-chic gastropub with a Modern Scottish menu, draught and bottled beers, and whiskies galore. Located just around the corner from our place! They also do a Sunday lunch option.
378 locals recommend
The Scran and Scallie
1 Comely Bank RdLocated in Stockbridge. Rustic-chic gastropub with a Modern Scottish menu, draught and bottled beers, and whiskies galore. Located just around the corner from our place! They also do a Sunday lunch option.
Located in Stockbridge. Nok's dishes up a menu of authentic and beautifully presented Thai food in the romantic atmosphere of a 17th-century town house, heart of Stockbridge.
75 locals recommend
Nok's Kitchen
8 Gloucester StLocated in Stockbridge. Nok's dishes up a menu of authentic and beautifully presented Thai food in the romantic atmosphere of a 17th-century town house, heart of Stockbridge.
Serving great cocktails in a historic setting on George Street in city centre. There’s an authentic 1930s cocktail bar, a delightful, parasol-covered garden café and an elegant grill room beneath a spectacular cupola, with mosaic floors and stained glass windows. Go for afternoon tea as treat, or for lunchtime sandwiches just to see inside!
285 locals recommend
The Dome
14 George StServing great cocktails in a historic setting on George Street in city centre. There’s an authentic 1930s cocktail bar, a delightful, parasol-covered garden café and an elegant grill room beneath a spectacular cupola, with mosaic floors and stained glass windows. Go for afternoon tea as treat, or for lunchtime sandwiches just to see inside!
Note that this restaurant is located at Broughton Street - check the map for its location as it is not in Stockbridge. They do not permit anyone under 18 to eat there, due to Scottish Licencing laws. It is one of our favourite restaurants and we would walk via the New Town to get there. Some might prefer to get a cab or Uber.
162 locals recommend
Rollo Restaurant & Wine Bar
108 Raeburn PlNote that this restaurant is located at Broughton Street - check the map for its location as it is not in Stockbridge. They do not permit anyone under 18 to eat there, due to Scottish Licencing laws. It is one of our favourite restaurants and we would walk via the New Town to get there. Some might prefer to get a cab or Uber.
An institution in Stockbridge. Small, very informal. Good for parents with children. It does great homemade burgers (with vegetarian options too).
38 locals recommend
Bells Diner
7 St Stephen StAn institution in Stockbridge. Small, very informal. Good for parents with children. It does great homemade burgers (with vegetarian options too).
Located in Stockbridge (Italian restaurant).
Some recent guests went with their teenage children and gave really good feedback to us about this place.
Pepe Nero Restaurant
1-3 Raeburn PlaceLocated in Stockbridge (Italian restaurant).
Some recent guests went with their teenage children and gave really good feedback to us about this place.
Good restaurant for families in Stockbridge.
Nice place to go for a drink - lovely bar inside or they now have a large canvas set up outside with lighting, if you prefer to remain outside.
162 locals recommend
The Raeburn
112 Raeburn PlGood restaurant for families in Stockbridge.
Nice place to go for a drink - lovely bar inside or they now have a large canvas set up outside with lighting, if you prefer to remain outside.
Cute independent cafe in the centre of Stockbridge - sells good coffee and cakes love their raspberry brownies! Also good bacon sandwiches for breakfast.
40 locals recommend
Cowan and Sons
33 Raeburn PlCute independent cafe in the centre of Stockbridge - sells good coffee and cakes love their raspberry brownies! Also good bacon sandwiches for breakfast.
We would walk to this restaurant from our place, but some might like to take an uber.
It's new on the scene and is fab.
35 locals recommend
The Little Chartroom
14 Bonnington RoadWe would walk to this restaurant from our place, but some might like to take an uber.
It's new on the scene and is fab.
Situated in Thistle Street - good vibe. 15 minutes walk from our place.
64 locals recommend
The Bon Vivant
55 Thistle StSituated in Thistle Street - good vibe. 15 minutes walk from our place.
If you like fish, this is the place for you - situated in Thistle Street.
119 locals recommend
Fishers In The City
58 Thistle StreetIf you like fish, this is the place for you - situated in Thistle Street.
Fun interior and good for lunch on George Street (city centre). Often do deals if you look on the internet.
205 locals recommend
Tigerlilly
125 George StFun interior and good for lunch on George Street (city centre). Often do deals if you look on the internet.
Located in St Andrew Square (city centre). Very nice for a celebration meal - we were last there to celebrate our teenager's exam results and all loved it.
49 locals recommend
The Ivy on the Square - Edinburgh
6 St Andrew SquareLocated in St Andrew Square (city centre). Very nice for a celebration meal - we were last there to celebrate our teenager's exam results and all loved it.
Restaurant situated on Broughton Street. Good to go for for lunch if you have been for a walk up Calton Hill. Great food and keen prices.
69 locals recommend
Educated Flea
32B Broughton StRestaurant situated on Broughton Street. Good to go for for lunch if you have been for a walk up Calton Hill. Great food and keen prices.
Teenagers love this restaurant on St Andrew's Square. Note there is also another branch at 1 Castle Terrace.
26 locals recommend
Wagamama
1 Castle TerraceTeenagers love this restaurant on St Andrew's Square. Note there is also another branch at 1 Castle Terrace.
Dishoom Edinburgh
3a St Andrew SquareGreat Indian restaurant on St Andrew Square (city centre).
Look at the boozy lunch deal offers for this hotel - 15 minutes' walk from our place on Drumsheugh Gardens. Served every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 12.30pm until 2.30pm. Lovely ambiance and excellent deal.
6 locals recommend
The Bonham Hotel
35 Drumsheugh GardensLook at the boozy lunch deal offers for this hotel - 15 minutes' walk from our place on Drumsheugh Gardens. Served every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 12.30pm until 2.30pm. Lovely ambiance and excellent deal.
Located in St Stephen's Street, in Stockbridge. Great food and a really good Sunday lunch (which is great value for money).
31 locals recommend
Purslane Restaurant
33A St Stephen StLocated in St Stephen's Street, in Stockbridge. Great food and a really good Sunday lunch (which is great value for money).
Found at Lady Lawson Street - we would walk, but some guests might prefer to take an Uber as it's on the other side of the city from us. Family owned and run restaurant. Fabulous place. Has vegetarian and vegan options too. They have now received 1 Michelin star.
184 locals recommend
TIMBERYARD
10 Lady Lawson StFound at Lady Lawson Street - we would walk, but some guests might prefer to take an Uber as it's on the other side of the city from us. Family owned and run restaurant. Fabulous place. Has vegetarian and vegan options too. They have now received 1 Michelin star.
Located in city centre. If you like Thai food this is the place for you - in a rooftop eatery with sleek modern looks and glass walls for castle views. Found on Castle Street (20 minute walk from our place).
128 locals recommend
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
33 Castle StLocated in city centre. If you like Thai food this is the place for you - in a rooftop eatery with sleek modern looks and glass walls for castle views. Found on Castle Street (20 minute walk from our place).
If you are in the Old Town this is a great restaurant choice - found on Advocate's Close. Cosy, brick-lined pub boasting 300+ whiskies, plus burgers, meat dishes & craft cocktails.
227 locals recommend
The Devil's Advocate
9 Advocate's ClIf you are in the Old Town this is a great restaurant choice - found on Advocate's Close. Cosy, brick-lined pub boasting 300+ whiskies, plus burgers, meat dishes & craft cocktails.
Found on Alva Street in the West End. About 15 minutes' walk from our place. This is one of our regular places to eat for locally sourced great Scottish cuisine. We love it!
36 locals recommend
Forage & Chatter
1A Alva StFound on Alva Street in the West End. About 15 minutes' walk from our place. This is one of our regular places to eat for locally sourced great Scottish cuisine. We love it!
For those who like French food - found in Broughton Street. A twenty five minute walk from our place. Describes itself as a classic French bistro with white walls and posters for a classic French menu using local produce.
173 locals recommend
L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant
56 Broughton StFor those who like French food - found in Broughton Street. A twenty five minute walk from our place. Describes itself as a classic French bistro with white walls and posters for a classic French menu using local produce.
Noto is an independent restaurant and bar, focused on food for sharing, small domaine wine producers & bespoke cocktails. located in Thistle Street. About twenty minutes' walk from our place. Lots of lovely restaurants in this area.
21 locals recommend
Noto
47a Thistle StNoto is an independent restaurant and bar, focused on food for sharing, small domaine wine producers & bespoke cocktails. located in Thistle Street. About twenty minutes' walk from our place. Lots of lovely restaurants in this area.
Restaurant based in 97 Hanover Street - offers a great tasting menu. Recommended by guests who stayed in November 2021. They caught a cab from the flat as it was a cold evening.
34 locals recommend
SIX by NICO EDINBURGH
97 Hanover StRestaurant based in 97 Hanover Street - offers a great tasting menu. Recommended by guests who stayed in November 2021. They caught a cab from the flat as it was a cold evening.
This Inn serves great food and I usually reach it by bus. If you have access by car then it's an easy drive. The Queen has even eaten at this place(!) and it's pretty to wander around the area and visit the beautiful free Dr Neil's Garden at the same time.
167 locals recommend
The Sheep Heid Inn
43-45 The CausewayThis Inn serves great food and I usually reach it by bus. If you have access by car then it's an easy drive. The Queen has even eaten at this place(!) and it's pretty to wander around the area and visit the beautiful free Dr Neil's Garden at the same time.
A local Indian restaurant - on Craigleith Road, just past Waitrose. Good for families to eat at. 15 minutes' walk from our place.
15 locals recommend
Ronaq Indian Restaurant, Comely Bank
10-12 Craigleith RdA local Indian restaurant - on Craigleith Road, just past Waitrose. Good for families to eat at. 15 minutes' walk from our place.
The Gardener's Cottage - fabulous for a special lunch. Local produce and beautifully presented. Tucked away on London Road Gardens. Several of our guests have been here and loved it. You could head up Carlton Hill afterwards.
339 locals recommend
The Gardener's Cottage
1 London RoadThe Gardener's Cottage - fabulous for a special lunch. Local produce and beautifully presented. Tucked away on London Road Gardens. Several of our guests have been here and loved it. You could head up Carlton Hill afterwards.
Family-owned wine bar and bistro on Raeburn Place in Stockbridge. They also serve breakfasts and Sunday roasts. Quality seasonal British cuisine.
Whiskers Wine Café
48 Raeburn PlaceFamily-owned wine bar and bistro on Raeburn Place in Stockbridge. They also serve breakfasts and Sunday roasts. Quality seasonal British cuisine.
If you love whisky give this award-winning Whiski Rooms bistro restaurant a go. It has over 300 to choose from (mostly malt), plus an attached shop. Overlooks the Mound with great views of Princes Street and Edinburgh. They also host whisky tastings every day (subject to any covid restrictions).
59 locals recommend
Whiski Rooms
4-7 N Bank StIf you love whisky give this award-winning Whiski Rooms bistro restaurant a go. It has over 300 to choose from (mostly malt), plus an attached shop. Overlooks the Mound with great views of Princes Street and Edinburgh. They also host whisky tastings every day (subject to any covid restrictions).
This restaurant comes highly recommended by some recent guests who loved it so much that they went twice! Located in a neighbourhood close to Stockbridge and minutes from Princes Street (with parking beside the venue). It has great reviews. Located at 18 Eyre Place, EH3 5EP
76 locals recommend
New Chapter
18 Eyre PlThis restaurant comes highly recommended by some recent guests who loved it so much that they went twice! Located in a neighbourhood close to Stockbridge and minutes from Princes Street (with parking beside the venue). It has great reviews. Located at 18 Eyre Place, EH3 5EP
Recommending this local Stockbride restaurant on the basis of feedback from recent guests (March 2022) - who rated it as excellent. They offer a five or seven course tasting menu.
29 locals recommend
Radicibus italian restaurant
2 Deanhaugh StRecommending this local Stockbride restaurant on the basis of feedback from recent guests (March 2022) - who rated it as excellent. They offer a five or seven course tasting menu.
A great choice for anyone who loves mash, lots of options for all types of tastes - look their reviews up on Trip Advisor. They are based on the Mound at 9 North Bank Street and have fab views of the city. Fussy children may also love this place! You can get a bus direct from the end of our road to the Mound.
22 locals recommend
Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Mound)
9-12 Bank StA great choice for anyone who loves mash, lots of options for all types of tastes - look their reviews up on Trip Advisor. They are based on the Mound at 9 North Bank Street and have fab views of the city. Fussy children may also love this place! You can get a bus direct from the end of our road to the Mound.
Love this place - it is found in Thistle Street - about a 25 minute walk from our place. Good food and atmosphere.
64 locals recommend
The Bon Vivant
55 Thistle StLove this place - it is found in Thistle Street - about a 25 minute walk from our place. Good food and atmosphere.
Recent guests who stayed in September 2022, really rated this new Tom Kitchin restaurant in Bruntsfield on the South side of the city. They ate out a lot and this was their top recommendation!
Kora by Tom Kitchin
14-17 Bruntsfield PlaceRecent guests who stayed in September 2022, really rated this new Tom Kitchin restaurant in Bruntsfield on the South side of the city. They ate out a lot and this was their top recommendation!
Classic Scottish seafood dishes in the West End (just over Dean Bridge). Wine and cocktail bar downstairs and restaurant upstairs. We would walk there from Stockbridge.
Dulse Edinburgh
Classic Scottish seafood dishes in the West End (just over Dean Bridge). Wine and cocktail bar downstairs and restaurant upstairs. We would walk there from Stockbridge.
New restaurant in our area - so lovely to have the choice of Greek food now. Found in Howe Street, so a short walk away at the other end of Stockbridge.
Kuzina - Unique Greek Cuisine
New restaurant in our area - so lovely to have the choice of Greek food now. Found in Howe Street, so a short walk away at the other end of Stockbridge.
Take a lovely walk along the Water of Leith from Stockbridge to this restaurant, which overlooks the river and is in a great location. Check it out on-line.
The Tollhouse
Take a lovely walk along the Water of Leith from Stockbridge to this restaurant, which overlooks the river and is in a great location. Check it out on-line.
Cold Town House in the Grassmarket is a pub with a terrific rooftop terrace. Voted Beer Bar of the Year 2021, it serves grazing platters, Neapolitan pizzas, and classic pub scran. You would need to book in advance for a roof top table. Look it up!
32 locals recommend
Cold Town House
4 GrassmarketCold Town House in the Grassmarket is a pub with a terrific rooftop terrace. Voted Beer Bar of the Year 2021, it serves grazing platters, Neapolitan pizzas, and classic pub scran. You would need to book in advance for a roof top table. Look it up!
Cafe Andaluz (Spanish food) has just opened a new restaurant in November 2023 in Stockbridge and it looks amazing. It is very close to our place, so definitely one to try!
Cafe Andaluz Stockbridge
Cafe Andaluz (Spanish food) has just opened a new restaurant in November 2023 in Stockbridge and it looks amazing. It is very close to our place, so definitely one to try!
Drinks & Nightlife
A hush hush speakeasy bar disguised by a vintage barber shop facade. The bar has a creative and extensive cocktail menu.
297 locals recommend
Panda & Sons
79 Queen StA hush hush speakeasy bar disguised by a vintage barber shop facade. The bar has a creative and extensive cocktail menu.
An intimate cocktail bar hidden down a steep set of stairs in a stylish subterranean Queen Street cellar.
235 locals recommend
Bramble Bar & Lounge
16A Queen StAn intimate cocktail bar hidden down a steep set of stairs in a stylish subterranean Queen Street cellar.
A nice wine bar which you might miss as it is tucked away down a side street in Stockbridge!
75 locals recommend
Good Brothers Wine Bar
34 Dean StA nice wine bar which you might miss as it is tucked away down a side street in Stockbridge!
Newly refurbished historic building - go for a drink if you like whisky, or to the restaurant with its spectacular views of the city.
36 locals recommend
Johnnie Walker Princes Street
145 Princes StNewly refurbished historic building - go for a drink if you like whisky, or to the restaurant with its spectacular views of the city.
West Register Street, close to St Andrews Square. Fun basement bar and restaurant. Google it.
18 locals recommend
Lady Libertine
25 W Register StWest Register Street, close to St Andrews Square. Fun basement bar and restaurant. Google it.
Found in West Register Street in the city centre.
Some recent guests went for drinks and loved the atmosphere.
104 locals recommend
The Voodoo Rooms
19a W Register StFound in West Register Street in the city centre.
Some recent guests went for drinks and loved the atmosphere.
Independent cheese & wine bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge district go there for a great glass of wine with well-matched cheese or charcuterie, in an attractive setting. Ten minutes' walk from our place. Book a table first.
91 locals recommend
Smith & Gertrude
254 Hamilton PlIndependent cheese & wine bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge district go there for a great glass of wine with well-matched cheese or charcuterie, in an attractive setting. Ten minutes' walk from our place. Book a table first.
Found at 1 West Register Street, EH2 2AA in city centre. An old-school Victorian pub which has been family owned since 1896. Beautiful Roccoco plaster ceiling to gaze at and stunning ornamental bar to take in too. Go for a glass of quality real ale and soak up the atmosphere. Fabulous.
10 locals recommend
The Guildford Arms
1 W Register StFound at 1 West Register Street, EH2 2AA in city centre. An old-school Victorian pub which has been family owned since 1896. Beautiful Roccoco plaster ceiling to gaze at and stunning ornamental bar to take in too. Go for a glass of quality real ale and soak up the atmosphere. Fabulous.
Found at: 19 West Register St, Edinburgh EH2 2AA - Another stunning city centre bar with opulent Parisian-style saloon bar interior, serving fresh seafood dishes (continental lagers and local ales).
125 locals recommend
Cafe Royal
19 W Register StFound at: 19 West Register St, Edinburgh EH2 2AA - Another stunning city centre bar with opulent Parisian-style saloon bar interior, serving fresh seafood dishes (continental lagers and local ales).
Options for breakfast and brunch
Located in Frederick Street. Good for its Full Scottish Breakfast option, which includes haggis for those that wish to try it! Also offers veggie and lots of other tasty breakfast and brunch choices.
7 locals recommend
Greenwoods Edinburgh
61 Frederick StreetLocated in Frederick Street. Good for its Full Scottish Breakfast option, which includes haggis for those that wish to try it! Also offers veggie and lots of other tasty breakfast and brunch choices.
Found in N.W Circus Place in Stockbridge - good for breakfast & brunch options. There is currently seating outside on the pavement too!
140 locals recommend
The Pantry
1 N W Circus PlFound in N.W Circus Place in Stockbridge - good for breakfast & brunch options. There is currently seating outside on the pavement too!
Great independent cafe for brunch or lunch at 121 Hanover Street. They now take bookings on line too.
68 locals recommend
Urban Angel
121 Hanover StGreat independent cafe for brunch or lunch at 121 Hanover Street. They now take bookings on line too.
Cheesemongers in Stockbridge
IJ Mellis Cheesemongers
6 Bakers PlaceGreat cheesemonger in Stockbridge.
On our doorstep in Stockbridge - great artisan cheese, bread and preserves. Try some fabulous Scottish cheeses here, including the aptly named Minger!
17 locals recommend
George Mewes Cheese
3 Dean Park StOn our doorstep in Stockbridge - great artisan cheese, bread and preserves. Try some fabulous Scottish cheeses here, including the aptly named Minger!
Coffee bean selection (ground for you) & tea selection
A boutique coffee roaster on our doorstep in Stockbridge - excellent ground coffee beans and also tea for you to purchase and brew at home!
23 locals recommend
Mr Eion Coffee Roaster
9 Dean Park StA boutique coffee roaster on our doorstep in Stockbridge - excellent ground coffee beans and also tea for you to purchase and brew at home!