Schmap.com supports the following browsers:
PC
 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 |
 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 |
 Photo: Kathryn002 |
 Photo: Oliver Proctor |
 Photo: Will White |
 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 |
 Photo: Jette Goldie |
 Photo: Peter Doe |
 Photo: Blake Ford |
 Photo: Peter Doe |
 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 |
|
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 |
 Photo: Jenni Douglas |
 Photo: Jon Middleton |
 Photo: Abi Robertson |
 Photo: Kerryamcmahon |
 Photo: Chris Stevens |
 Photo: Kevin Buck |
 Photo: Nat Wallbank |
 Photo: Ian Mitchell |
 Photo: Niki Odolphie |
 Photo: Ellie Casson |
 Photo: Graham Binns |
 Photo: Frances Douglas |
 Photo: Darren Varney |
 Photo: David Farries |
 Photo: John McKenna |
 Photo: cupcakes4ever |
 Photo: Fionna Cumming |
 Photo: Wayne Thompson |
 Photo: alisonswankie |
 Photo: billy houckham |
 Photo: ccpix photography |
 Photo: Sarah Peters |
 Photo: g1raffelady007 |
 Photo: Daniel Hinckley |
 Photo: DAVID HARRIS |
 Photo: Samantha Mooney |
 Photo: Mark J Underwood |
 Photo: Sarah Nicolson |
 Photo: terminal.boredom (away) |
 Photo: Libby vanBuskirk |
 Photo: Steven Burrows |
 Photo: Simon Hughes |
 Photo: Andre Joosse |
 Photo: Beardyman G. Hickman |
 Photo: Gwen MacQuarrie |
 Photo: B.S. Cahill |
 Photo: SpoiltCat.com |
 Photo: Michael Cantwell |
 Photo: Wai Fong Fung |
 Photo: printlady4 |
 Photo: queen_of_idleness |
 Photo: Waysted Photography |
 Photo: WILL MILNE |
 Photo: gavinsaxby |
 Photo: tanyabg |
 Photo: Mark Davey |
 Photo: Alan Drummond |
 Photo: Wendy Forbes |
 Photo: Linda Challis |
 Photo: hazelfarquhar |
 Photo: Pamela Ivison |
 Photo: Snorre Løvås |
 Photo: David Rourke |
 Photo: Maree Coates |
 Photo: Steve Perks |
 Photo: Tracey |
 Photo: Lynne Leone |
 Photo: James Plenderleith |
 Photo: David Cooper |
 Photo: Peter Crosby |
 Photo: Amy Turner |
 Photo: Nancy Galloway |
 Photo: Kirsten Gould |
 Photo: Fiona Mckinlay |
 Photo: Darryl W Bullock |
 Photo: Craig Marren |
 Photo: Peter Hopper |
 Photo: Timothy Johnson |
 Photo: Alan O'Donnell |
 Photo: Simon Edwards |
 Photo: Carol Marsh |
 Photo: Lesley4444 |
 Photo: Lorna Morrison |
 Photo: SCrlt_pimpernel |
 Photo: traceymcmillan |
 Photo: Elizabeth Kee |
 Photo: Susan Casey |
 Photo: Sean Murray |
 Photo: Red 10 |
 Photo: indecisiveImp |
 Photo: Nici Lowson |
 Photo: Susi Kinghorn |
|
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 |
 Sixteenth century tower house |
Cramond Road South Davidsons Mains Edinburgh EH4 5GD United Kingdom +44 131 336 2060 |
Lauriston Castle was left to the nation by William Reid, a cabinet-maker and antiques enthusiast. The 16th century tower house and 19th century extensions are set in immaculately kept grounds. The elegant Edwardian interior can only be viewed on guided tours, which start hourly. There are wonderful items of furniture, prints, paintings, porcelain and pieces of art. You can phone to book a tour or turn up and enjoy the garden while you wait. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tonya Warner |
 Photo: Laura Schwormstedt |
 Photo: Emma Henderson |
 Photo: Edd Hannay |
 Photo: Kit Gilchrist |
 Photo: Brian Graetz |
|
Peaceful National Trust gardens |
Balerno Edinburgh EH14 7AF United Kingdom +44 131 449 2283 http://www.nts.org.uk |
A short drive from Edinburgh is the small town of Balerno and the quiet sanctuary of this three acre, walled garden. Offering a welcoming breath of fresh air away from the bustle of the city centre, it has beautiful, giant 400 year-old yew trees, herbaceous borders and (if you're there in the right season) a multitude of gorgeous roses. Take time to stroll around the extensive woodland and to examine the National Bonsai Collection for Scotland. The splendid 17th century house and its two fine Georgian reception rooms are occasionally open to the public. Admission: is £1 by honesty box, and up to three under 18's can go free if accompanied by an adult. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Heyes |
|
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 |
|
Before the bridges |
53 High Street (Queensferry) Edinburgh EH30 9HP United Kingdom +44 131 331 5545 |
This museum charts the growth of the surrounding area before, during and after the building of the celebrated bridges. Visitors will be astounded by descriptions and details of these celebrated structures' ongoing upkeep. Queensferry was once the chosen departure point for the Royal family to cross by boat to Fife, this period is also documented. For nature enthusiasts, there are displays about the Forth Estuary and spectacular views to savor using the telescopes and binoculars available. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
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 |
 Photo: Lorna Robinson |
 Photo: Brian |
 Photo: Stuart Green |
 Photo: Carina Scheibe |
 Photo: tlecaudey |
 Photo: Ian H. MacLeod |
 Photo: Miranda Bergman |
 Photo: Jim |
 Photo: Tinus Stander |
 Photo: Tinus Stander |
 Photo: Zach Everson |
 Photo: Shannon Robalino |
 Photo: Anshuman Singh |
 Photo: Rebecca Lane |
 Photo: Mike Holroyde |
 Photo: Sarah Milteer |
 Photo: Ann Marie Sinclair |
 Photo: MtnDuck |
 Photo: Jen & Cam Morrison |
 Photo: Billy Currie |
 Photo: dearmoney |
 Photo: Wendy Forsyth |
 Photo: A*J* |
 Photo: Kolbrun Hlin |
 Photo: Joel Leong |
 Photo: Adrian's travel pics |
 Photo: Kate Hutcheson |
 Photo: Juanma Rufián |
 Photo: Paul A. McClitnock |
 Photo: Keith Engle |
 Photo: Jonnie Cee |
 Photo: Derek Harkness |
 Photo: Julie Fraser |
 Photo: jonandcarmen |
 Photo: LingMuse |