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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 |
 Photo: Tinus Stander |
 Photo: Tinus Stander |
 Photo: juliustapper |
 Photo: Kathleen Girard |
 Photo: EDITH_COLLINS |
 Photo: David Westwood |
 Photo: Jack Lail  |
 Photo: Becky Plunkett |
 Photo: S McAleece |
 Photo: Atila Zilik |
 Photo: Stuart Roebuck |
 Photo: colomane1 |
 Photo: Andrew Durdin |
 Photo: Kirsten Cyr |
 Photo: yeknod |
 Photo: blob59 |
 Photo: Beatrixie |
 Photo: mark watmough |
 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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Fine architecture and rich history |
2 Princes Street Edinburgh EH2 - 3AA United Kingdom +44 131 535 1314 |
This fine example of Scottish architect Robert Adam's work is the home of the National Archive of Scotland, founded in 1774. The entrance is dominated by a notable statue of the Duke of Wellington. Marvel at the imposing and ornate turrets, cupolas and Corinthian columns that tower overhead. The interior is similarly rich. You can research your Scottish roots here by appointment and find out just how closely connected to Mary Queen of Scots you really are. It also acts as a grand venue for cultural exhibitions - the times shown are for these events. Call for access to the legal and historical records. Admission: is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Intoxicating architecture |
8 Lauriston Place Edinburgh EH3 9EQ United Kingdom +44 131 229 7263 http://www.george-heriots.com/ |
George Heriot's School is one of Edinburgh's most respected private educational establishments, and is housed in a splendid building dating from 1628. It was endowed by George Heriot, the goldsmith and jeweller to James VI - the jingling Geordie of Sir Walter Scott's novel Fortunes of Nigel. Huge octagonal chimneys rise from this former hospital building - one of many fine architectural features included in the heady mixture of Gothic, English domestic and neo-classical styles. The impressive building may be viewed from the pristine grounds, or on the occasional open access day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fergus Ray Murray |
 Photo: chrisdonia |
 Photo: John L Arata |
 Photo: John Blower |
 Photo: Annemarie Pearson |
 Photo: Iain Forsyth |
 Photo: Hilary Wardle |
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Adam and Bruce aristocratic architecture |
Lime Avenue Edinburgh EH30 9SL United Kingdom +44 131 331 2451 http://www.hopetounhouse.com/ |
Hopetoun House is one of Scotland's finest stately homes and houses excellent examples of Robert Adam and Sir William Bruce interiors and architecture. Sample the aristocratic grandeur of the Red and Yellow Drawing Rooms. There are 17th century tapestries, Meisen porcelain and a fine collection of grand masters, including Ramsay, Raeburn and Gainsborough. Enjoy the fine views of the Forth and Fife from the rooftop platform. There are magnificent walks through the grounds and beyond, and there are often classical concerts both inside and out during the summer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christine Sutcliffe |
 Photo: Queensferry Lou |
 Photo: chairmanblueslovakia |
 Photo: Chih-Peng Lucas Kao |
 Photo: John Craske |
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Literary history |
Lady Stair's Close, Lawnmarket Edinburgh EH1 2PA United Kingdom +44 131 529 4901 |
This house is named after the gorgeous but foulmouthed heroine of Sir Walter Scott's My Aunt Margaret's Mirror. Built in the 1620s, the house now houses a museum celebrating the Scottish writers Scott, Robert Burns and Robert Louis Stevenson. The collection consists mainly of locks of hair, paintings and various literary scripts. It is the painting, Parliament Square and Public Characters of Edinburgh, hung in the Burns Room that is really worth a look. Admission: is free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Myers |
 Photo: Darjeeling Wanderer |
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16th century house hosts over-50's activities |
Burgess Street Leith Edinburgh EH6 6RD United Kingdom +44 131 554 3131 http://www.elac.org.uk/inspir.... |
Lambs house is a fine 16th century building that was once used as combined dwelling and warehouse. Today, it is owned by the National Trust for Scotland and hosts a range of activities to over-50's. Take your pick from bowling, bridge, cribbage, knitting and embroidery, line dancing, aerobics and bingo, amongst others. The recently refurbished kitchen area provides a varied lunch time menu. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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16th century chapel |
41 Cowgate Edinburgh EH1 1JR United Kingdom +44 131 220 1450 |
This 16th century chapel has the only surviving pre-reformation stained glass in Scotland left "in situ". The glass is in four brilliantly colored heraldic roundels on the south wall. The chapel was built by Maichale MacQueen and was later bequeathed to the Hammermen, a guild of metalworkers, who then adorned the space with their work. This wonderful building has been recently restored and is now owned by the Scottish Reformation Society. It plays occasional host to concerts—call for the latest details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Small Streets, Eclectic Shops |
Old Town Edinburgh United Kingdom |
Based along the Royal Mile. Grassmarket is towards the southern end. If you're looking for something more original than the High Street, try the Old Town area near the Royal yMile where tiny streets like Cockburn Street overflow with shops full of tie-dye and joss sticks, piercings and indie style, whilst the St. Mary's area boasts tiny independent designer boutiques. The Grassmarket has a similarly eclectic mix of outlets: take a look in Armstrongs and 15 The Grassmarket for starters. Tiny streets like Cockburn Street overflow with hippy shops full of tie-dye and joss sticks, whilst the St. Mary's area boasts tiny independent designer boutiques. The Grassmarket has a similarly eclectic mix of outlets. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Parliament House |
Parliament Square City of Edinburgh United Kingdom |
This building was the seat of Scottish Government until 1707 when the Act of Union brought together the governments of England and Scotland. Built in 1632-39, it now accommodates the superior courts of Scotland, the High Court of Justiciary and the Court of Session. It is well worth a visit to see the black tin notary boxes in use, the fine hammer beam roof and the be-wigged and robed advocates pacing the great hall. There are also fine portraits by Raeburn and other major Scottish artists. Access to the marvelous Signet Library upstairs is by written request only, as it is in daily use. Address enquiries to: The Librarian, Signet Library, Parliament House, and Parliament Square, Edinburgh. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kal TraumaQueen |
 Photo: Ben |
 Photo: Gordon McKinlay |
 Photo: Karen Rogers |
 Photo: Karen Rogers |
 Photo: Amy Watts |
 Photo: Amy Watts |
 Photo: Gordon McKinlay |
 Photo: Alistair Wilkie |
 Photo: Andrew Short |
 Photo: © Rick Boles |
 Photo: © Rick Boles |
 Photo: Andrew Short |
 Photo: Kyle MacLean |
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Ancient mystical church |
Rosslyn Chapel Trust Edinburgh EH25 9PU United Kingdom +44 131 440 2159 http://www.rosslynchapel.org.uk/ |
This atmospheric and beautiful church is situated just outside the village of Roslin, to the south of Edinburgh. It was built around 1446 by William St Clair - it is unique and famed for the beauty of its extraordinarily detailed carvings and its aura of mystery. The carvings refer to both Christian and Pagan rites, including the Green Man, Freemasonry and the Knights Templar. It is the only medieval building still used by the Scottish Episcopal Church, and has been linked to various legends throughout the years. A fascinating exhibition that draws from the Brydon Collection, explores the craft of the Guilds, Templars, Masons, Celts and Gypsies. There's a wonderful shop and a great little cafe on site. Call for details of church services. Admission: is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: seth + lara m |
 Photo: Joseph Charles Eddy |
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 Photo: Carina Scheibe |
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Gothic spire dedicated to The Wizard of the North |
Princes Street Gardens Princes Street Edinburgh EH2 2EJ United Kingdom +44 131 529 4068 |
Completed in 1846, this statue of Sir Walter Scott and his dog Maida was built 14 years after his death. The spire was designed by George Meikle Kemp and the statue was conceived by Sir John Steel. The statue is carved from a single block of Carrara marble while the sculptural decorations on the sandstone spire show 16 Scottish writers and 64 characters from Sir Walter Scott's novels. There are 287 steps to the highest gallery - the view is more than worth the effort. The monument will retain its distinctive black colour for the foreseeable future, as sandblasting was deemed too dangerous for its slender stonework. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Adam Loeffler |
 Photo: Mike Knowles |
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A memorial to the English Opium-Eater |
Lothian Road Edinburgh EH1 2EP United Kingdom +44 131 229 1142 http://www.st-cuthberts.net/ |
This imposing Western Kirk sits below Edinburgh Castle, at the west end of Princes Street. The present structure was rebuilt by Hippolyte J. Blanc in 1892-94 upon the remains of six earlier churches. Explore the wonderfully rich and warm interior, notable for its alabaster and marble pulpit, ornate stained glass windows and painted ceilings. The Byzantine ambience is complemented with artistic echoes of the Italian Renaissance - including a modified version of Leonard da Vinci's Last Supper from Santa Maria Delle Grazie, in Milan. Admire the tower and cupolas, War Memorials and a monument to John Napier of Merchiston, who invented logarithms. The author Thomas de Quincey and artist Alexander Naysmith are buried in the large churchyard. Ask a steward to show you around before browsing in the bookstall area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martin Hapl |
 Photo: Angela McCallum |
 Photo: Andrew Short |
 Photo: Lee Stamper |
 Photo: Ginger Moore |
 Photo: gary mckenzie |
 Photo: doods10002000 |
 Photo: julmurf |
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Stirling Castle |
Stirling Old Town City of Edinburgh United Kingdom +44 (0)1786 450 000 http://www.historic-scotland.g... |
Built high on a volcanic outcrop, Stirling Castle offers a fascinating chance to step into a piece of Scottish history. Visitors can tour the Gatehouse, Chapel Royal and Great Hall all built by the Stewart Kings. Amongst the many other interesting features of the castle is the chance to visit the Medieval Kitchen and a special Castle exhibition. The castle boasts a café with a roof top patio and well-stocked souvenir shop. There is partial wheelchair access to the castle – contact for more details. Free guided tours run regularly. See also Braveheart reconstructions through out the summer. A great family day out! Adult £8.00, Child (under 16) £3.00, Concession £6.50. - Julie Knight Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter and Tina |
 Photo: James Wickham |
 Photo: Cameron Bayly |
 Photo: Morgan Lockhart |
 Photo: Paul David Simpson |
 Photo: Keith Thorne |
 Photo: Garth Walker |
 Photo: David Walls |
 Photo: Jérôme Franck |
 Photo: abhinav.saurabh |
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Edwardian concert hall for classical and pop music |
Lothian Road Edinburgh EH1 2EA United Kingdom +44 131 228 1155 http://www.usherhall.co.uk/ |
This impressive Grade A listed Edwardian domed structure is currently being renovated after a Tony Bennett concert almost brought the roof in. Its recently cleaned copper roof has added new lustre to the skyline of Edinburgh. This Beaux-Arts design building accommodates 2500 people for mainly large classical concerts, pop combos and country giants on tour. Recent concerts have included appearances by Jose Carreras, The Glen Miller Orchestra, The Royal Scottish National Orchestra and The Bootleg Beatles. Check with the hall for details of upcoming concerts and events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alex Newton |
 Photo: krakow81 |
 Photo: Hugo Rodrigues |
 Photo: Pete Dunlop |
