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1 1/2 Days in Edinburgh

Posted by (Vancouver, BC) on

I've been but my teenage daughter has not. We are into views, walking, some art, history, walking tours and tea. Am hoping to book tea in the place that is ina historic building with a view that used to be a Starbucks. I just need to remember the name!

  1. What are the must sees and places to walk?
  2. Can we go up to the castle but not go in? Not that into military history but enjoy views.
  3. I am leaning towards Hollywood House as I haven't been?

We arrive from London are 14:00 have a night in Edinburgh and go to Berwick the next evening. We are making our way down the east coast, stopping at Alnwick and The Sill and could only squeeze in one night in Edinburgh. Could have squeezed in a full day had I booked the Caledonian sleeper the night before but I couldn’t commit and they are sold out. Otherwise, we are hemmed in by other plans on either side.

Posted by
2279 posts

The Castle dominates Edinburgh and you will see it without having to walk up to the entrance.

Walk down the Royal Mile, going into the cathedral on the way past. Holyrood House is good and worth visiting (you could also take afternoon tea there too!) . Afterwards go for a walk up Calton Hill for the views. It's a lot shorter than trying to do Arthur's Seat and the views are just as good.

There is also the ruined Craigmillar castle which is just a short bus ride and has links with Mary Queen of Scots.

Do go and find Greyfriars Bobby and find out about his sad story...

Posted by
1700 posts

I recommend a guided walking tour of the Royal Mile with Mercat Tours.

We also loved the National Museum of Scotland. So many interesting things to see, such as Dolly the cloned sheep; Mary, Queen of Scots, harp; Jackie Stewart's race car; prayer wheels from Tibet, etc. The museum is free. You can give a donation, if you wish, which we did.

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