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 Watery fun, various sports and relaxation |
92 Pilton Drive Edinburgh EH5 2HF United Kingdom +44 131 551 2400 |
This local eight lane, 25-metre swimming pool and leisure centre also has a spa and a baby pool. If you have children in tow, there is a creche for babies and toddlers, as well as a pulse centre to get you in shape and a multi-purpose sports hall. The list of sports items available is impressive: badminton, basketball, five-a-side football, gymnastics, judo, karate, table tennis, volleyball and netball. Once you've worked up an appetite and a thirst, there is a choice of visiting the equally welcoming cafe or bar, which both offer a good range of snacks and refreshments. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Open air fun |
Livingston Village Edinburgh EH54 7AR United Kingdom +44 1506 41 4957 http://www.almondvalley.co.uk/ |
This is fun day out for the kids, just to the west of Edinburgh. The Almond Valley Heritage Centre offers country air, animals and nature galore. Trails, tractor rides and a narrow gauge railway ensure there is lots to do. A newly opened laboratory promises to fascinate all the family by staging revealing experiments. They also run a diary of occasional special events such as "Easter Eggcitement", when visitors can hunt for Easter eggs and make a bonnet. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter Doe |
 Photo: Lors Dors |
 Extinct volcano |
Salisbury Crags Holyrood Park Edinburgh EH16 United Kingdom |
Visit Edinburgh's volcano and walk over its lava flows—there is no danger as its been extinct for 350 million years. The name may refer to 6th century Arthur of Strathclyde or be a derivative of the Gaelic ard-na-said, meaning height of arms. The highest point in Holyrood Park at 822 feet, on a clear day you can see for 100km from the mound across Edinburgh city, along the coast to East Lothian and out to the Forth to Fife. Free admission. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bugs, beasties and beautiful butterflies |
Gilmerton Road Lasswade, Midlothian Edinburgh EH18 1AZ United Kingdom +44 131 663 4932 http://www.edinburgh-butterfly... |
This is a fantastic place for the kids and more fun for adults than you might expect. Wandering through the various differently landscaped areas, you can actually walk amongst hundreds of gorgeous, exotic butterflies which flutter around you. There are handling sessions at 12pm and 3pm every day. Take the chance to peer at all kinds of tiny beasts, from lizards to scorpions and amazing leaf-cutter ants. There are regular sessions where you can handle some of these creatures, including stick insects and snakes, and there's a gift shop on site, offering lots of butterfly and insect-related things. The Bird of Prey Centre is on the same site. Admission: adults £4.25; children & concs £3.25; family (2 adults & 2 children) £13. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Simon Kirby |
 Photo: Noam Chen |
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The folly on the hill |
Regent Road Edinburgh EH1 3DG United Kingdom +44 131 200 2000 |
Calton Hill is open to all during daylight hours and is free of charge. Take the steps up from Regent Road and then choose between more steps or a more gentle walk along the path. There are magnificent views of Fife, Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth from the summit, and the definitive view of Princes Street. The hill is the stage for the epic Beltane Festival celebrations at midsummer, with drumming, partying and a colourful pageant ushering in the new season. Monuments at the top include the Nelson Monument and a part-reproduction of the Parthenon, intended to commemorate the war dead in the Napoleonic wars. Alas, it ran out of funding and has become known as Edinburgh's Folly. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Davidson |
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Projected and real views of the city |
Castlehill Edinburgh EH1 2ND United Kingdom +44 131 226 3709 http://www.camera-obscura.co.uk/ |
Perched on top of the Royal Mile, this is the place to "see" Edinburgh - however not necessarily by looking at the views! Instead, visitors look at a white disk in the middle of a darkened room onto which the surrounding area is projected (including all the innocent and oblivious passers-by). There's a voyeuristic air amongst the viewers, as they hover around the images, chuckling as people and things are singled out for scrutiny - all good fun. There is also an impressive hologram exhibition, which is well worth a look. For the traditionalists, a fine view of the city can be found without refraction contraptions, at the very top of the building. Do be warned however, as both the view from the roof and the view from the camera are dependent on natural light - dark clouds and general fogginess will give rise to disappointment for gawpers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Short |
 Photo: Mark Ferbert |
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Stylish cruising |
Baird Road Ratho Edinburgh EH28 8RA United Kingdom +44 131 333 1320 http://www.bridgeinn.com/ |
Ratho is situated eight miles to the west of Edinburgh - along the A8 road past the airport. The Canal Centre dry dock and reception centre were opened in 1993 by the Seagull Trust and offers a variety of relaxing cruises. Visitors can take afternoon tea, dine and dance in style or even get married whilst cruising. Adventurous, budding-detectives might like the sound of the Murder Mystery Ghost Cruise. In summer, the splendid Ratho Princess, a 1923 vintage launch, with its stylish art deco interior, takes one and a half hour sightseeing trips along the canal. Passengers get the chance to walk on Britain's third largest aqueduct. For the hungry, there are two luxury restaurants based at the wonderful Bridge Inn. Take time to explore the history and way of life by the locks through the fascinating displays. A charming shop sells souvenirs and canalware, and there is accommodation at the Inn. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stefan Deiters |
 Photo: Stefan Deiters |
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 Kirk of Holyrood House |
Canongate Royal Mile Edinburgh EH8 8BN United Kingdom +44 131 226 5138 |
This beautiful stone-built church on the Royal Mile is the Parish Church of the Canongate as well as the Kirk of Holyroodhouse Palace - it is therefore the place of worship of the Royal family when they are in residence. It was built by the order of James VII in 1688 and is well worth visiting in order to admire its exquisite architecture and to soak up some of the Royal Mile's infectious atmosphere. Visitors can also walk around the pleasant graveyard, where such luminaries as the economist Adam Smith and the master-mind behind the New Town developments, Lord Provost George Drummond are buried. David Rizzio, the murdered Secretary of Mary Queen of Scots, also rests here. There are occasional classical music concerts staged in the kirk, including choral recitals by the Edinburgh University Renaissance Singers - phone for the latest details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: subberculture |
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 Photo: subberculture |
 Photo: Andrew Wm. Robson |
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Scottish Episcopal |
Princes Street Edinburgh EH2 4BJ United Kingdom +44 131 229 7565 http://www.thechoir.co.uk/ |
Built in 1818, St John's Church stands at the west end of Princes Street, on the corner of Lothian Road. It's the only building on Princes Street permitted to obscure the view to the castle as, during its construction, an Act of Parliament was passed to prevent any further development there. It was built by William Burn, on the site of a market garden and during the festival the church grounds still serve to host numerous little craft stalls. The neo-Gothic windows of St John's are among its most striking features, dating from the Victorian revival period of glass-making techniques. There's a range of contemporary sculpture, tapestry and painting, and a small library. The grounds also house the Cornerstone Coffee House, the Peace and Justice Centre, the One World Shop, and the Cornerstone Bookshop, which sells Christian literature. If you love choral and classical music, the church holds concerts throughout the year - call for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Damien du Toit |
 Photo: James Stringer |
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Imposing ruins and royal intrigues |
A68 Edinburgh EH16 4SY United Kingdom +44 131 244 3101 |
Craigmillar Castle is an imposing and grand structure with an unusual history. It is situated on the A68 road, three and a half miles south east of the city centre, and is accessible by car from the roads around Arthur's Seat. It was first mentioned as a fortress in 1212. The Prestons developed the site in the 14th century and it was converted into a comfortable residence in 1660 by the Gilmours. Soak up the atmosphere as you walk around the impressive ruins of the massive keep and the cobbled inner courtyard. Inside, the stately range of apartments from the 16th and 17th centuries have intrigues to reveal. Apparently the death of Mary Queen of Scots' husband Lord Darnley was plotted here by conspirators. Visitors can marvel at Mary's tiny room which measures 7 feet by 5 feet. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: kevin |
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 Home for the arts |
8 Advocates Close 357 High Street Edinburgh EH1 1PS United Kingdom +44 131 225 9721 |
Hidden away down a little closie just off the Royal Mile is one of Edinburgh's oldest houses. This charming medieval tenement now houses the DOM - Home For The Arts. This unique European arts center was set in 1996 and has regular exhibitions of artists with international standing, alongside program of readings and recitals. The ethos of DOM is to display work outside the mainstream that has metaphysical and spiritual sensibilities. There is a great little gift shop too —which offers some original items. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Architectural grandeur and historical paintings |
Bambougie Ride Edinburgh EH30 9TQ United Kingdom +44 131 331 1888 http://www.dalmeny.co.uk/ |
To the north of the city, by the Firth of Forth, sits this architectural gem, the ancestral home of the Earl of Rosebery. It houses some superb paintings, French furniture, Sevres porcelain, intricate tapestries and a Napoleonic collection. Of particular interest are works by Gainsborough, Lawrence and Raeburn as well as a gilded portrait of Napoleon, that sits on his ornate shaving stand. The beautiful grounds look across to Fife and there is an enchanting shore walk nearby that links South Queensferry to the ferry at Crammond. Relax in the charming tearoom that serves civilized fare. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Raf K |
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Handsome buildings and a relaxing riverside walk |
Queensferry Street (Bells Brae, Water of Leith) Edinburgh EH2 4PF United Kingdom |
Dean village has a "lost in time" feel about it. It is tucked away in a dip below the surrounding city areas and borders the Water of Leith. The settlement dates from the 12th century and developed around the industry of grain-milling over a period of 800 years. Today, its tranquillity and beautiful architecture, including some wonderfully converted warehouses, makes it a very desirable place to live. Take a charming walk along the Water of Leith, starting at the east and finishing at the west end of the path. Walk along towards the imposing arches of Dean Bridge and then head to the National Gallery of Modern Art. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Edinburgh Castle |
Castlehill City of Edinburgh, Midlothian Scotland EH1 2NG United Kingdom +44 131 225 9846 http://www.edinburghcastle.biz |
The castle is Edinburgh's best known and most popular attraction and one of the most visited ancient monuments in the UK. It has breathtaking views of Edinburgh and tons to interest young and old alike - the Great Hall and Royal Apartments, the Crown Room, the Half Moon Battery, statues of Robert the Bruce and William Wallace, and the Esplanade to name but a few. The Esplanade is also the venue of the world-renowned Military Tattoo, with its music, marching and historical re-enactments. The castle is home to Scotland's most famous cannon - a 15th century monstrosity called Mons Meg, which is fired every day (except Sunday) at precisely 1pm - be warned, it's deafening! In a more sombre corner of the castle is the Witches' Well where over 300 women were burned between 1492-1722. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Scots-Venetian traditional craft |
Eastfield Penicuik Edinburgh EH26 8HB United Kingdom http://www.edinburgh-crystal.c... |
Established in 1867, the Edinburgh Crystal Company (actually 10 miles from the city center on the A701) has worked to develop the glass-making traditions brought to the city by the Venetians in the 17th Century. In a large modern multi-complex, visitors can take a guided tour of the whole process - demonstrating blowing, moulding, trimming and engraving - with the option (if you book ahead) to try glassblowing and cutting yourself. Wares from the craftsmen at the center can be purchased from the First Quality Crystal Shop. There's also a factory shop (selling seconds at discounted prices), a gift shop (with pottery and porcelain), and a café. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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3-D journey through Edinburgh's history |
City Observatory Calton Hill Edinburgh EH7 5AA United Kingdom +44 131 556 4365 |
The Edinburgh Experience is housed in the historic City Observatory, which sits astride Calton Hill. This wonderful building was built in 1818 by the celebrated architect William Playfair. Nowadays, visitors can put on cardboard glasses and view a 20-minute 3-D multimedia extravaganza, showing images of Edinburgh and its dizzying sights. Take a journey through the history of Scotland's capital from its volcanic origins to the present day. Admission: adults £2; concessions £1.20. Group and family discounts available. Parking nearby. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tinus Stander |
 Photo: lizzie daggar |
 Photo: Anushka T. |
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Edinburgh Festival Fringe |
180 High Street (Organisor) City of Edinburgh EH1 1QS United Kingdom +44 (0)131 226 0026 (Organisor) http://www.edfringe.com/ |
The Fringe is a welcoming forum for both the established star and the unknown genius of tomorrow. For three weeks in August each year, the city is alive with a frenzy of creativity, hosting more than 2,000 shows held at various venues throughout the city. More than 30% of the program is smade up by theater. The rest is rounded out with comedy, music, dance, children's shows and exhibitions. Expect anything from the profoundly serious to the deliriously silly. The program is launched in June, with tickets available through August; book early if you want to get to your first-choice program. Ticket prices vary according to venue and performance. If you're tight on cash or someone who's always looking for a bargain, keep in mind that over 300 of the shows are free to the public. Call or check the website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: FiPZiE.CoM |
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Temple and community centre |
St Andrew Place Leith Edinburgh EH6 7EG United Kingdom +44 131 667 6064 |
Formerly St Andrew's Church, this temple also serves as a general community center for Hindus; Diwali and all other Hindu festivals are celebrated here, and it is hoped that a permanent center of arts and culture will be established on the premises within a year or so. Meanwhile, other arts activities, such as traditional dancing, are already held here. Services: Every second Sunday of the month, 4pm-6pm; and every fourth Sunday, 12pm-2pm (on which occasion a community meal is served). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The oldest of six arts festivals |
Various venues Edinburgh United Kingdom +44 131 473 2001 http://www.edinburgh-festivals... |
The Edinburgh International Festival is one of six arts festivals which, together, make up The Edinburgh Festival. The focus of the event is to "provide the world with a centre where, year after year, all that is best in music, drama and the visual arts can be seen and heard in ideal surroundings". Edinburgh is indeed ideal: the beauty of the surrounding landscape provides the perfect backdrop for the music and drama of the International Festival. Opera, ballet, symphony concerts, and performances all take place in the larger venues around the city. The programme is available in March, and tickets are EUR5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Gardner |
 Photo: Lauren |
 Photo: Sivakumar Rajamanickam |
 Photo: E.Robson |
 Photo: Peter Doe |
 Photo: www.theedinburghblog |
 Photo: E.Robson |
 Photo: Greg Beal |
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Edinburgh International Science Festival |
4 Gayfield Place Lane Edinburgh EH1 3NZ United Kingdom +44 131 558 7666 http://www.sciencefestival.co.uk/ |
This fascinating and stimulating Festival takes place in the Spring, around Easter time and lasts for two weeks. It aims to make science and technology accessible to all, through a full programme of shows, workshops, walks, tours and events, plus a special timetable for children and schools. In previous years visitors have been able to chat with Arthur C Clarke, unearth giant dinosaurs and walk on red hot coals. It all adds up to an educational, intriguing and fun day out. See their website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Gray |
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World famous military display |
32 Market St Edinburgh EH1 1QB United Kingdom +44 131 555 1188 http://www.edintattoo.co.uk/ |
The Tattoo is one of the world's finest military displays. First performed in 1950, it is a splendid mix of pomp, pageantry, music, ceremony, entertainment and drama, all set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle during the festival. Although the central appeal still remains the stirring sight and sound of the massed pipes and drums of the Scottish regiments, the event has an international flavour with performers invited from all over the world. Tickets range from GBP9-GBP25, depending upon seating. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martin Luechinger |
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A note-by-note history |
Reid Concert Hall Bristo Square Edinburgh EH8 9AH United Kingdom +44 131 650 2423 http://www.music.ed.ac.uk/euchmi/ |
This fascinating collection charts the history of musical instruments in the evocative Victorian surroundings of the Reid Concert Hall. Their technical evolution is explained and demonstrated—with over a thousand instruments from around the globe to woo visitors. Over four hundred years of craftsmanship is on display, including some intriguingly bizarre-shaped pieces. A new feature is the sound laboratory— an interactive exploration area that allows you to "blow your own trumpet" using artificial lips. Opening times often change, so call to check. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Looking after Edinburgh's heritage |
5 Charlotte Street Edinburgh EH2 4DR United Kingdom +44 131 220 7720 http://www.ewht.org.uk/ |
This former HQ of the National Trust for Scotland is a magnificent Robert Adam's designed neo-classical edifice. For a look at the wonderful interior and particularly the early 20th century drawing room ceiling, an appointment must be made or you can book your place on the annual Doors Open Day. The Edinburgh World Heritage Trust is the place to contact regarding architectural developments in Edinburgh. The Trust awards grants for appropriate repairs to buildings within the designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Penguins on parade |
Corstorphine Road Edinburgh EH12 6TS United Kingdom +44 131 334 9171 http://www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/ |
All the old favorites are here: Asiatic lions, South American monkeys, zebras, funky little marmosets and tamarins - this is a sure-fire hit for children and adults alike. The jewel in Edinburgh Zoo's crown has to be the penguins, who make a regular parade outside their enclosure at 2pm (March-October) when weather permits. Or they can be viewed swimming underwater in the world's biggest penguin pool. You can also arrange to handle the smaller animals (such as snails, rats and snakes) or to take a safari ride in an open-sided trailer. Take the opportunity to meet some of the keepers and learn about the more exotic and endangered inhabitants here. There's a great little gift shop with lots of affordable goodies, and a handy coffee shop/restaurant. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dave Morris |
 Photo: Tom Page |
 Photo: Penguinista |
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