Places to Visit Near Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a picturesque capital city in Scotland, located on the east coast of the country and boasting a rich history and culture. This vibrant city is well-known for its unique atmosphere, lively pubs and clubs, ancient architecture, and stunning scenery. It is home to the Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, as well as numerous museums and galleries. With its many attractions and activities, it’s no wonder that Edinburgh is one of the top tourist destinations in the United Kingdom.

But Edinburgh isn’t just about the city itself. Surrounding the city are many places to visit that are just as fascinating and worth exploring. From breathtaking countryside and stunning beaches to historic sites and lively markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Read on to discover some of the amazing places nearby Edinburgh that you can visit during your stay.

History and Culture

Just a few miles from the city lies the historic town of St Andrews, which is known for its ancient architecture and educational heritage. Home to one of the oldest universities in Scotland, St Andrews is a great place to explore old buildings, visit museums and galleries, and experience local culture.

The nearby village of Linlithgow also offers visitors a glimpse into Scotland’s past. This small town was once the residence of the Scottish monarchy, and today you can explore the ruins of Linlithgow Palace, which dates back to the 16th century. It’s also home to a beautiful loch and a historic high street featuring many traditional shops and pubs.

Another popular destination near Edinburgh is Rosslyn Chapel, which is known for its intricate carvings and its association with the Knights Templar. This beautiful chapel was featured in Dan Brown’s novel The Da Vinci Code, and today visitors can tour the chapel and learn about its fascinating history.

Great Outdoors

The area around Edinburgh offers many opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. One popular destination is Craigmillar Castle, which offers stunning views over the surrounding countryside. Here you can also explore some of the castle’s ruins, which date back to the 13th century.

Loch Lomond is another great place to visit for outdoor enthusiasts. With its rugged landscape and breathtaking views, this large freshwater loch is the perfect spot for a day trip or weekend getaway. You can explore its many islands, go hiking or cycling along its shores, or even take a boat trip out into the loch.

Just east of Edinburgh lies East Lothian, a coastal region known for its rolling hills, sandy beaches, and charming villages. Here you can enjoy activities such as walking, horse riding, fishing, golfing, or simply relax on one of its many beaches.

Shopping and Markets

For those looking for a unique shopping experience, head to Stockbridge Market in Edinburgh’s New Town. This bustling market is held every Sunday and offers visitors a chance to browse an array of local produce, crafts, antiques, books, and other items.

If you’re looking for more of a traditional shopping experience, head to Princes Street in the city centre. This famous street is lined with shops selling everything from designer clothes to souvenirs and gifts. There are also some great cafes and restaurants here where you can relax after a busy day of shopping.

The historic city of Leith is also home to some great markets. Here you can find everything from fresh produce to vintage clothes, art and antiques. The market is held every Saturday from 9am-3pm at Waterloo Place.

Popular Tours

One of the best ways to explore Edinburgh and its surrounding areas is by taking one of the many popular tours available. One popular tour is the “Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour” which allows visitors to explore various parts of the city at their own pace by hopping on and off the bus at any of its stops. This tour takes visitors to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens, Holyrood Palace, Calton Hill and more. You can book this tour online or buy tickets from any tourist information office in the city centre.

Another popular tour is the “Edinburgh Ghost Tour” which takes visitors on a journey through some of the city’s darker tales and stories. The tour includes stops at various haunted sites such as Greyfriars Kirkyard and Mary King’s Close as well as tales about ghosts and ghouls that are said to haunt the city’s streets. You can book this tour online or purchase tickets at any tourist information office in Edinburgh.

Finally, there’s the “Edinburgh Street Art Tour” which takes visitors on a journey through some of Edinburgh’s most vibrant street art scenes. During this tour you will have the chance to explore some of the city’s most creative neighbourhoods as well as learn about its rich street art culture from a knowledgeable local guide. You can book this tour online or purchase tickets at any tourist information office in Edinburgh.

Conclusion

There are many fascinating places to visit near Edinburgh that offer visitors a unique insight into Scotland’s history and culture. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a chance to explore some of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks and attractions, Edinburgh has something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure you take some time to explore some of the great places nearby Edinburgh during your stay!