Free Things To Do In Edinburgh At Night

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is one of the most visited destinations in the UK and has been recognised as one of the best cities to visit in Europe. With its historic sites, fascinating culture and diverse entertainment, it is easy to understand why Edinburgh is such a popular travel destination. While the city has many great attractions in the day, there are also a lot of free things to do in Edinburgh at night, so you don’t have to break the bank for a great night out.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is one of the most iconic streets in Edinburgh and the perfect place to start exploring the city in the evening. With its cobbled streets and old buildings, it is easy to get lost in the captivating atmosphere of this area. There are many shops and restaurants which you can explore as you wander down the mile. You can also find many street performers and musicians who provide great entertainment for free.

The National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is one of the biggest attractions in Edinburgh and a great place to visit in the evening. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits to explore, including natural history, science and technology, and world cultures. It is free to enter and open until 7pm, providing a great way to learn about the city’s history and culture.

Calton Hill

Calton Hill is a great place to watch the sunset in the evening. As you make your way up the hill, you can take in the stunning views of the city skyline, Arthur’s Seat and the Firth of Forth. On the top of the hill, you will find many monuments, including the National Monument, Nelson’s Monument and the Royal Observatory. You can also watch the One o’Clock Gun firing every day at 1pm.

The Royal Yacht Britannia

The Royal Yacht Britannia is a great place to explore in the evening. The yacht is open until 6pm and you can explore the royal family’s former home on board. You can also take a guided tour of the yacht, which will give you an insight into the royal family’s life on the boat.

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and a great place to visit in the evening. The castle is open until 8pm and you can explore the various buildings, including St Margaret’s Chapel, the Great Hall and the crown jewels. You can also take a guided tour of the castle to learn more about its history.

Theatres and Music Venues

Edinburgh has a great selection of theatres and music venues which offer a variety of entertainment in the evening. From the Edinburgh Playhouse to the Usher Hall, you can find a show or performance to suit your tastes. There are also many bars and pubs which offer live music, so you can enjoy some traditional music or jazz in the evening for free.

Festivals

Edinburgh is known for its many festivals, including the Edinburgh International Festival and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. The festivals are a great way to experience the city’s culture and entertainment for free. You can find many street performers, musicians and comedians performing throughout the city and many free events to attend.

Additional Tips

When visiting Edinburgh, it is important to remember that the best time to explore the city is in the evening when everything is lit up and the streets are alive with people and entertainment. Make sure to bring clothes that are suitable for the temperatures and to bring some cash with you as some attractions may require an entrance fee. You can also get around the city easily by taking public transportation, so make sure to get a travel card before you start your journey.

Edinburgh is a beautiful city and with its many free attractions and activities, you don’t have to break the bank to have a great night out. From the Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle and the many festivals, there is plenty to explore in the city. So make sure to check out these great attractions in the evening and get the most out of your trip to Edinburgh.

An Insider’s Guide To Free Things To Do In Edinburgh At Night

For tourists visiting Edinburgh, the city is filled with an abundance of popular tourist destinations. However, there are a few hidden gems that only the locals often frequent. Here are some free things to do in Edinburgh at night.

Local Attractions

While Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace are must-sees, there are other lesser-known places worth visiting at night. The Calton Hill, for instance, offers a majestic view of the city lights. Arthur’s Seat, too, is scenic, especially when you climb it at sunrise or sunset. For the more adventurous, Mary King’s Close is an underground site that’s said to be haunted, adding an extra thrill to any visit.

Dining Spots

When in Edinburgh, you should try the local cuisine. Haggis, neeps and tatties is the dish that most often comes to mind, and the Royal Mile Tavern serves up an excellent version for under £10. Other Scottish delicacies include cullen skink, a smoked haddock soup, and Caledonian beers. For something lighter, you can opt for a locally-brewed coffee at Brew Lab Coffee or indulge in some warm donuts from the famous George Mewes Cheese.

Cultural Experiences

Being the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature, Edinburgh is very much a city of culture. The Scottish Storytelling Centre, located on the Royal Mile, is a museum that brilliantly showcases Scotland’s storytelling heritage. Furthermore, the National Museum of Scotland often holds free events where visitors can be exposed to anything from music and art to film and fashion.

Local History

Edinburgh has some unique tales from the past. For instance, Black Mausoleum gives you a glimpse into the city’s curious history of ghost stories if you’re up for a bit of a scare. On a more historical note, St. Andrew Square was built in the 18th century, and is a perfect place for a stroll before heading to the New Town.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to experience something that goes beyond the conventional, then don’t forget to check out the Beltane Fire Festival, which is held annually in Edinburgh. The Fire Festival is an event that celebrates the beginning of summer through a combination of fire, music, and performance art. For an offbeat bar experience, head to Dragonfly Cocktail Bar to sip on cocktails made in-house and served in beakers and test tubes.

Edinburgh offers an abundance of free things to do at night, from historical tours to storytelling festivals and dining on local cuisine. With these hidden gems in mind, tourists can experience the city in a fresh, unique way that is sure to make their Edinburgh trip unforgettable.