1. Arthur or Martha
One of the first things you should do upon arriving in Edinburgh is head up Arthur’s Seat. The view of Edinburgh and beyond from the top is second to none. It looks like a long, arduous climb to the top but rest assured if you’re relatively fit it should only take about 30 mins to reach the summit so no excuses.
2. Coffee & cake
Climbing Arthur’s Seat is the perfect justification for a coffee accompanied by an enormous slice of delicious cake. Mimi’s Bakehouse is a real treat by anybody’s standards. The choice of cakes is incredible and the champagne afternoon tea the perfect way to reward yourself after such a gruelling, strenuous walk up that ginormous volcano…
3. A mile of royalty
Walking a mile might seem like an easy task but with so many distractions it could take you a good couple of hours. Bagpipes, shortbread and tartan galore – it’s got to be done. Soak it all up meandering along the cobbled road watching street performers. Break it up with a wee dram on a chilly day.
4. Crammond beach
Up to your eyes in tartan and looking for something a little less obvious? Head out to Crammond – you can easily jump on a bus from the city. Walk out to the island, enjoy a coffee overlooking the Forth or explore the pretty village. It’s stunning and if you get a sunny day – even better!
5. Frisky for whisky?
Whisky connoisseur or first time taster – you will love the Whiski Rooms in Old Town. This has to be one of the best places to try haggis, neeps and tatties or enjoy some Scottish beef. Keep your eyes peeled for annual events too – Scotland’s History Festival, Hogmanay, Burns night…
6. Hoot and a half
For a cheap and cheerful evening head to The Stand comedy club for a giggle. Make sure you get there early as it is an intimate venue and you probably don’t want to end up standing all night. If you have time to kill before the show begins we can vouch for the lamb burger.
7. Canoes & Cocktails
52 Canoes Tiki Den is a quirky, popular bar with locals. The cocktail menu is extensive and will be right up your street if you love rum. The food has a Mexican vibe – the sharing plate and nachos are very generous portions. Staff are friendly and the music good, making for a great night.
8. Scaredy-Mercat
We all know about the Edinburgh dungeons but what about taking things to the next level by signing up for a Mercat Tour? Even better if you’re here over Halloween. The guides are natural storytellers full of personality and wit.
9. Ceilidh chaos
If you’ve not experienced a true Scottish ceilidh then this is for you. Book in for Ghillie Dhu’s Friday night Rabbie Burns three course supper, ceilidh, live bands and DJ! If you’re still stand by 3am when things wrap up you’ll have done well!
10. Farmer Giles
Every Saturday morning provides the opportunity to visit Edinburgh award-winning farmer’s market with stunning views of the castle. It is attended by more than 50 specialist producers – fish, eggs, cheese, seasonal fruit and veg, pate, organic beer chutney… a food lover’s dream!
Reserve Apartments is an Edinburgh-based holiday and corporate apartment service, providing short term lettings and self-catering solutions in Edinburgh and Glasgow.
