I'm going to try to squeeze in a quick visit to Edinburgh before I have to go back to work...probably arrive 11th and leave 14th/15th.
Travelling by myself, up for anything, what do I need to do? Budget isn't really an issue. Broad question but appreciate anyone's experiences.
Edited by: christopherryan
Welcome to TT.
It is a broad question so any of the webs top-ten lists would help you. I do recommend the national gallery as exceptional, some of the early-mid 19th century romantic works are great if you like that period, There are some great William McTaggart pieces from anti-industrial revolution rural idyll to impressionist. I did like the People's Museum even if it is a bit musty and amateurish because of its good intentions and cheapness (and also the skies had just opened so I ducked for cover). Try the Malt Shovel bar.
I would also recommend a day trip to Glasgow, it is only an hour or so on train. Hunt down some Macintosh architecture and I do like the Kelvingrove gallery which is accessible by bus if you do a bit of investigation. The Horseshoe bar in Glasgow is a bit of a tourist trap but pleasant.
I went to Glasgow for a day and thought the transport museum by the river was worth the trip
Day: Take a walk up Arthurs seat and soak up the great views. Walk up the Royal Mile to St GIles Cathederal and the castle and visit them. Go down the Mound to the little markets. Chill out in Princes Street Gardens. If you don't fancy Glasgow (being from the Burgh I don't particularly!) you could go to the Glenkinchy distillery just outside of Edinburgh and sample some of Scotland's finest malt whiskeys. If you are after greenery, the Pentland hills will offer lots of this. Glencorse reservoir...1/2 mile walk from the car park and the little pub restaurant is a nice spot.
Evening: Take a witchery tour and learn about Old Reekies (Edinburgh) dark history. They meet in various parts of the Royal Mile and can be booked just up from the Cathederal. Have a meal at one of the' Howies' Restaurants. Go for a drink on George Street (with big bucks) or the Grass Market (3 sisters) for those with less cash!
There are daffodils out up here. Edinburgh hasn't suffered as much snow as the rest of Scotland from what I have been told, although there has been some on the Pentland Hills nearby. Regardless, there will still be some color in the trees around then, but not blooming loads!
Have a fab time!
I just got back today from a few days in Edinburgh and i can report thats it's a fine city to visit.The city is best enjoyed just wandering around but there are for me a few "Must-sees" the free art gallleries are stunning and packed with major works,theres a free shuttle bus between the galleries and they are free to get in.
The National Museum of Scotland is excellent,free but packed out yet still worth a visit.
A walk across the forth bridge from the train station brings you to the Royal Mile ,its a tad touristy but good fun with street performers etc.you can start at the castle and walk down to the funky looking Scottish Parliament building then climb Arthurs seat.
Theres so many restaurants in Edinburgh that its hard to single out many but we had fine grub at Mother India Cafe,and at "Noodle Bar" on South Bridge.
Hendersons Vegetarian restaurant on Hanover Street is amazing with top notch food and friendly service.
You cannot fail to have a good time in Edinburgh.
I wouldn't walk across theForth Bridge to get to the city center. It will take you a few hours as it is firmly in the suburbs. You can see it from the castle...it's the big one that crosses the Firth Of Forth estuary! Try the North Bridge next to Waverley Station. Go across that from Princes Street head up the hill over the bridge and you will hit the Royal Mile.