Guidebook for Edinburgh

Christine And Neil
Christine And Neil
Guidebook for Edinburgh

Food Scene

One of our favourite places for a drink or a bite to eat. The bar has an excellent choice of wines by the glass, and they serve the full menu in the bar too. From fish and chips to the full seafood platter with champagne, it's not to be missed. A very international crowd is testament to its reputation. They also do a fine brunch on a Sunday and Tom the barman is a dab hand with the cocktail shaker too.
159 helybéli ajánlásával
The Ship On The Shore
Shore
159 helybéli ajánlásával
One of our favourite places for a drink or a bite to eat. The bar has an excellent choice of wines by the glass, and they serve the full menu in the bar too. From fish and chips to the full seafood platter with champagne, it's not to be missed. A very international crowd is testament to its reputation. They also do a fine brunch on a Sunday and Tom the barman is a dab hand with the cocktail shaker too.
The savoury food is good - sandwiches, salads and so on - but people come, and come back, for the cakes and traybakes. Treat yourself to something sticky, creamy, chewy alongside a perfectly brewed cup of tea. You're worth it!
205 helybéli ajánlásával
Mimi's Bakehouse
63 Shore
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The savoury food is good - sandwiches, salads and so on - but people come, and come back, for the cakes and traybakes. Treat yourself to something sticky, creamy, chewy alongside a perfectly brewed cup of tea. You're worth it!
A social enterprise restaurant and catering business - you'll be doing good, but also getting some great food.
21 helybéli ajánlásával
Punjabi Junction
Leith Walk
21 helybéli ajánlásával
A social enterprise restaurant and catering business - you'll be doing good, but also getting some great food.
This is just round the corner for us, so perfect if you want good food but you don't want to go far. They serve some lovely standards (fish and chips, burger etc) but complement this with a changing seasonal menu that serves up real quality. You need to book - as the name suggests, it's not a big place...
47 helybéli ajánlásával
Bijou Bistro
2 Restalrig Rd
47 helybéli ajánlásával
This is just round the corner for us, so perfect if you want good food but you don't want to go far. They serve some lovely standards (fish and chips, burger etc) but complement this with a changing seasonal menu that serves up real quality. You need to book - as the name suggests, it's not a big place...
Not far from our house, this is a little gem in Royal Terrace Gardens. As the name suggests, they grow a lot of their own food, and the focus is on local and seasonal. Highly recommended.
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The Gardener's Cottage
1 London Road
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Not far from our house, this is a little gem in Royal Terrace Gardens. As the name suggests, they grow a lot of their own food, and the focus is on local and seasonal. Highly recommended.
Award-winning French/Scottish bistro. We can recommend the steak and chips, and they also do a lovely brunch (great eggs Benedict). Live music sometimes in the restaurant at the back, and the front section is very family friendly.
66 helybéli ajánlásával
Café Tartine
72 Commercial St
66 helybéli ajánlásával
Award-winning French/Scottish bistro. We can recommend the steak and chips, and they also do a lovely brunch (great eggs Benedict). Live music sometimes in the restaurant at the back, and the front section is very family friendly.
Commercial Quay is home to a number of restaurants, and this one is a favourite. Michael (the owner) is an absolute charmer, and this bistro, with its emphasis on the food of his native Provence, has a simple, elegant menu that always delights.
9 helybéli ajánlásával
Bistro Provence
88 Commercial Street
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Commercial Quay is home to a number of restaurants, and this one is a favourite. Michael (the owner) is an absolute charmer, and this bistro, with its emphasis on the food of his native Provence, has a simple, elegant menu that always delights.
An absolute stalwart of the Edinburgh food scene, the family has been cooking up great curries for the people of the city since 1947. It's a big place, but it gets busy (near one of the largest arts venues) so pick your time wisely. I can highly recommend the pepper monkfish tikka.
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Khushi's
10 Antigua St
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An absolute stalwart of the Edinburgh food scene, the family has been cooking up great curries for the people of the city since 1947. It's a big place, but it gets busy (near one of the largest arts venues) so pick your time wisely. I can highly recommend the pepper monkfish tikka.
One of Neil's favourites (and Christine rates it too) this is a nice spot if you're on the south side/university area. It's pretty basic, more of a cafe than a restaurant, but it serves quality authentic Pakistani food. Neil's favourite is the Tandoori lamb chops.
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Kebab Mahal
7 Nicolson Square
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One of Neil's favourites (and Christine rates it too) this is a nice spot if you're on the south side/university area. It's pretty basic, more of a cafe than a restaurant, but it serves quality authentic Pakistani food. Neil's favourite is the Tandoori lamb chops.
Another useful spot on the south side/university, this Lebanese restaurant serves up great mezze and kebabs. The service, especially when busy, can be a little chaotic, but the staff are friendly and the food's good. It's BYO so you can keep costs down.
9 helybéli ajánlásával
Beirut
24 Nicolson Square
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Another useful spot on the south side/university, this Lebanese restaurant serves up great mezze and kebabs. The service, especially when busy, can be a little chaotic, but the staff are friendly and the food's good. It's BYO so you can keep costs down.
High-end Japanese near some of Edinburgh's best theatres and cinemas. A real treat - not a cheap eat, but quality.
119 helybéli ajánlásával
Kanpai Sushi
8-10 Grindlay St
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High-end Japanese near some of Edinburgh's best theatres and cinemas. A real treat - not a cheap eat, but quality.
Brilliant, artistic food, focusing on unusual and foraged ingredients. As the name suggests, it's a converted timberyard, near the theatres and cinemas, and below the castle. Not cheap, by any means, but great attention to detail and a real experience.
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TIMBERYARD
10 Lady Lawson St
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Brilliant, artistic food, focusing on unusual and foraged ingredients. As the name suggests, it's a converted timberyard, near the theatres and cinemas, and below the castle. Not cheap, by any means, but great attention to detail and a real experience.
The original, and the best. Martin Wishart has been on the Shore for many years and has held a Michelin star for most of that time. Some of the most memorable food I've ever had has been here. It's a real treat. Not cheap but worth checking out the lunch offer.
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Restaurant Martin Wishart
54 Shore
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The original, and the best. Martin Wishart has been on the Shore for many years and has held a Michelin star for most of that time. Some of the most memorable food I've ever had has been here. It's a real treat. Not cheap but worth checking out the lunch offer.
Martin Wishart's city centre bistro. Classic French fare with fine Scottish ingredients. Not a cheap meal, but less pricey than its Michelin-starred sister at the Shore. Top tip: the Le Weekend offer is great value. You eat between 3pm and 6pm (late lunch after sight-seeing or shopping/early dinner before a show) and you will get a fab deal for 2 people.
49 helybéli ajánlásával
The Honours Brasserie
58A N Castle St
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Martin Wishart's city centre bistro. Classic French fare with fine Scottish ingredients. Not a cheap meal, but less pricey than its Michelin-starred sister at the Shore. Top tip: the Le Weekend offer is great value. You eat between 3pm and 6pm (late lunch after sight-seeing or shopping/early dinner before a show) and you will get a fab deal for 2 people.
I love this place so much I had my 40th birthday lunch here (treating myself). There's a bar where you can perch on a stool and have a glass of wine and some oysters, or you can book a restaurant table and really go for it. Beautiful Scottish seafood, simply and impeccably cooked.
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Ondine
2 George IV Bridge
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I love this place so much I had my 40th birthday lunch here (treating myself). There's a bar where you can perch on a stool and have a glass of wine and some oysters, or you can book a restaurant table and really go for it. Beautiful Scottish seafood, simply and impeccably cooked.
A little slice of Italy in Leith, we'd recommend this place far ahead of the flashier Giuliano's a few doors up. Simple salads, pastas and mains, and now offering breakfast, lunch and takeaway sandwiches. Well priced and charming service, this cosy little place also has some good wines and Italian digestifs on offer. Some nights they offer a very well priced pasta/glass of wine deal.
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Domenico's
30 Sandport St
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A little slice of Italy in Leith, we'd recommend this place far ahead of the flashier Giuliano's a few doors up. Simple salads, pastas and mains, and now offering breakfast, lunch and takeaway sandwiches. Well priced and charming service, this cosy little place also has some good wines and Italian digestifs on offer. Some nights they offer a very well priced pasta/glass of wine deal.
They've been serving vegetarian Indian (South Indian in particular) to the people of Edinburgh for over 25 years. This is a university area, so the prices are low, but it's popular with students, lecturers, tourists and everyone else.
41 helybéli ajánlásával
Kalpna
2-3 St Patrick Square
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They've been serving vegetarian Indian (South Indian in particular) to the people of Edinburgh for over 25 years. This is a university area, so the prices are low, but it's popular with students, lecturers, tourists and everyone else.
Best pizzas in Edinburgh. That's it really...
250 helybéli ajánlásával
Origano pizzeria
236 Leith Walk
250 helybéli ajánlásával
Best pizzas in Edinburgh. That's it really...
The Manna House is celebrating ten years on Easter Road and we do love it. As well as breads, buns and cakes, they serve tasty healthy salads and tarts that make a great lunch treat. You can also sit in - it's a small place and it gets pretty busy though, so you may need to wait for a seat. On a nice day you can grab your goodies and walk a few minutes across to Montgomery Road Park to enjoy them.
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The Manna House Bakery & Patisserie
22-24 Easter Rd
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The Manna House is celebrating ten years on Easter Road and we do love it. As well as breads, buns and cakes, they serve tasty healthy salads and tarts that make a great lunch treat. You can also sit in - it's a small place and it gets pretty busy though, so you may need to wait for a seat. On a nice day you can grab your goodies and walk a few minutes across to Montgomery Road Park to enjoy them.
There was a lot of celebrating in Edinburgh when this Glasgow institution made the move east along the M8 to open a branch. Dish size and pricing encourages a 'tapas' style of ordering, so you can sample a whole range of their goodies. Our favourites: aloo sag dosa (pancake stuffed with spiced greens and potato) and the Punjabi spiced haddock.
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Mother India's Cafe
3-5 Infirmary St
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There was a lot of celebrating in Edinburgh when this Glasgow institution made the move east along the M8 to open a branch. Dish size and pricing encourages a 'tapas' style of ordering, so you can sample a whole range of their goodies. Our favourites: aloo sag dosa (pancake stuffed with spiced greens and potato) and the Punjabi spiced haddock.
Edinburgh's vegetarian institution, and the UK's second oldest vegetarian restaurant (founded 1962). Soups, salads and hearty mains, they also offer takeaway - and there is a vegan sister restaurant on Thistle Street.
60 helybéli ajánlásával
Hendersons Salad Table Restaurant
94 Hanover St
60 helybéli ajánlásával
Edinburgh's vegetarian institution, and the UK's second oldest vegetarian restaurant (founded 1962). Soups, salads and hearty mains, they also offer takeaway - and there is a vegan sister restaurant on Thistle Street.
One of three veggie institutions in Edinburgh (alongside Henderson's and Kalpna), this is the upmarket end. There's a good vegan selection, and the desserts are excellent!
117 helybéli ajánlásával
David Bann Restaurant
56-58 St Mary's St
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One of three veggie institutions in Edinburgh (alongside Henderson's and Kalpna), this is the upmarket end. There's a good vegan selection, and the desserts are excellent!
A local cafe and restaurant with a focus on fair trade, organic and ethically sourced food. Great spot in the New Town for breakfast, brunch or lunch.
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Urban Angel
121 Hanover St
68 helybéli ajánlásával
A local cafe and restaurant with a focus on fair trade, organic and ethically sourced food. Great spot in the New Town for breakfast, brunch or lunch.

Drinks & Nightlife

It's an old-fashioned pub, so nothing too much on the food front. And all the better for it. They have a great range of real ales, always changing, and they keep them well too. The pub attracts all sorts, the chat is always good and you could wile away a rainy afternoon quite easily (as we have done).
46 helybéli ajánlásával
Malt & Hops
45 Shore
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It's an old-fashioned pub, so nothing too much on the food front. And all the better for it. They have a great range of real ales, always changing, and they keep them well too. The pub attracts all sorts, the chat is always good and you could wile away a rainy afternoon quite easily (as we have done).
They keep Barney's, an Edinburgh beer, and serve it with some fairly heft hotdogs and other tasty treats. It's a buzzy spot and pulls in a young crowd, and they have music and other entertainments. Great for a pint on the way home (it's about a twenty-minute walk from our house) after a hard day's sightseeing.
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The Safari Lounge
21 Cadzow Pl
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They keep Barney's, an Edinburgh beer, and serve it with some fairly heft hotdogs and other tasty treats. It's a buzzy spot and pulls in a young crowd, and they have music and other entertainments. Great for a pint on the way home (it's about a twenty-minute walk from our house) after a hard day's sightseeing.
If you're being a culture vulture you'll be up this end of town - the Filmhouse and Cameo cinemas (arthouse, European, independents) and/or the Lyceum and Traverse theatres. Popular with actors as well as locals, the Blazer has a great selection of beers.
39 helybéli ajánlásával
Blue Blazer
2 Spittal St
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If you're being a culture vulture you'll be up this end of town - the Filmhouse and Cameo cinemas (arthouse, European, independents) and/or the Lyceum and Traverse theatres. Popular with actors as well as locals, the Blazer has a great selection of beers.
A great pub, popular with locals and tourists. They have a fine selection of ales and a few snacks. It has a special place in my heart as it was on the TV here that I watched Hibs (Hibernian FC, my football team) finally win the Scottish Cup after 114 years...
17 helybéli ajánlásával
The Windsor Buffet
45 Elm Row
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A great pub, popular with locals and tourists. They have a fine selection of ales and a few snacks. It has a special place in my heart as it was on the TV here that I watched Hibs (Hibernian FC, my football team) finally win the Scottish Cup after 114 years...
Newhaven is a great place for a walk along the Waterfront, or you can walk along the old cycle paths and emerge at the firth. Either way, this is a lovely spot for a drink and a bite to eat - especially if you bag a table in the conservatory overlooking the water.
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The Old Chain Pier
32 Trinity Cres
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Newhaven is a great place for a walk along the Waterfront, or you can walk along the old cycle paths and emerge at the firth. Either way, this is a lovely spot for a drink and a bite to eat - especially if you bag a table in the conservatory overlooking the water.
This a gorgeous bar, with beautiful wood panels and mirrors. You can grab a bar snack, or choose to go to the fine restaurant next door, specialising in seafood. But the real treat here is the live music - on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sunday lunchtime. The Sunday shows by Brian Kellock are a highlight - Brian is viewed as one of the top jazz pianists in the world - and you can catch him here for free! And Neil plays double bass at the Tuesday evening gig sometimes, so pop on down...
275 helybéli ajánlásával
The Shore Restaurant
1 Shore
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This a gorgeous bar, with beautiful wood panels and mirrors. You can grab a bar snack, or choose to go to the fine restaurant next door, specialising in seafood. But the real treat here is the live music - on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sunday lunchtime. The Sunday shows by Brian Kellock are a highlight - Brian is viewed as one of the top jazz pianists in the world - and you can catch him here for free! And Neil plays double bass at the Tuesday evening gig sometimes, so pop on down...
One of Edinburgh's most beautiful bars (The painting and tilework is something to behold) this is located just off the east end of Princes Street. Gets busy after work (5pm-ish) but if you bag a stool or a seat you can settle down with a good local beers, a good wine selection or a fine whiskey. They serve food, and next door there is a restaurant specialising in seafood.
125 helybéli ajánlásával
Cafe Royal
19 W Register St
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One of Edinburgh's most beautiful bars (The painting and tilework is something to behold) this is located just off the east end of Princes Street. Gets busy after work (5pm-ish) but if you bag a stool or a seat you can settle down with a good local beers, a good wine selection or a fine whiskey. They serve food, and next door there is a restaurant specialising in seafood.
If you are out in the New Town in the day time, this is a lovely place to stop for a pint. It's not a big place, but this Victorian bar keeps a good selection of beers and is a place to rest from a hard morning's sightseeing.
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Kay’s Bar
39 Jamaica St
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If you are out in the New Town in the day time, this is a lovely place to stop for a pint. It's not a big place, but this Victorian bar keeps a good selection of beers and is a place to rest from a hard morning's sightseeing.
Legendary folk bar with sessions every night. Good whiskey range.
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Sandy Bell's
25 Forrest Rd
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Legendary folk bar with sessions every night. Good whiskey range.
A pub well known as a hub for traditional Scottish music.
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The Royal Oak
1 Infirmary St
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A pub well known as a hub for traditional Scottish music.
This is where Neil and Christine met! A basement bar in Stockbridge, it's equally good on a Saturday night or a Sunday afternoon to watch the football.
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The Antiquary Bar
72-78 St Stephen St
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This is where Neil and Christine met! A basement bar in Stockbridge, it's equally good on a Saturday night or a Sunday afternoon to watch the football.
A great spot during the festivals as it's a little off the beaten track and you can often find a seat. Good for real ales. It's just behind the Scottish Writers' Museum, which is worth a look, and because it's close to Edinburgh University's School of Theology, it's also a regular haunt of academics.
43 helybéli ajánlásával
Jolly Judge
7 James Ct
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A great spot during the festivals as it's a little off the beaten track and you can often find a seat. Good for real ales. It's just behind the Scottish Writers' Museum, which is worth a look, and because it's close to Edinburgh University's School of Theology, it's also a regular haunt of academics.
Every third Saturday of the month, the Wee Red Bar at the Art College hosts The Egg, Edinburgh's longest running alternative nightclub. It specialises in indie, 60's garage and soul, and 70s punk and new wave. Christine's favourite night out in her student days...
11 helybéli ajánlásával
The Wee Red Bar
74 Lauriston Pl
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Every third Saturday of the month, the Wee Red Bar at the Art College hosts The Egg, Edinburgh's longest running alternative nightclub. It specialises in indie, 60's garage and soul, and 70s punk and new wave. Christine's favourite night out in her student days...
This is one of Leith's oldest buildings (built 1438) and is a bit of an institution. Big stone walls are great for the winter evenings and they do food too - the Sunday breakfasts are legendary. A pint and a bit of history!
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The King's Wark
36 Shore
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This is one of Leith's oldest buildings (built 1438) and is a bit of an institution. Big stone walls are great for the winter evenings and they do food too - the Sunday breakfasts are legendary. A pint and a bit of history!
It's the oldest unaltered pub in Leith (it's been in operation since 1785). Good cask ales keep us coming back, and you can catch the football at the weekends too. A solid Leith crowd, with people coming in (not us, I confess) for the live music on Sunday evenings.
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The Carriers Quarters
42 Bernard St
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It's the oldest unaltered pub in Leith (it's been in operation since 1785). Good cask ales keep us coming back, and you can catch the football at the weekends too. A solid Leith crowd, with people coming in (not us, I confess) for the live music on Sunday evenings.
It's a wine bar, first and foremost. We didn't think that much of the food on our first visit, but to be fair, they hadn't been open that long at that time. But we would recommend the wine - an interesting selection (including some more unusual choices) and a lovely space to enjoy it.
71 helybéli ajánlásával
Toast
65 Shore
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It's a wine bar, first and foremost. We didn't think that much of the food on our first visit, but to be fair, they hadn't been open that long at that time. But we would recommend the wine - an interesting selection (including some more unusual choices) and a lovely space to enjoy it.

Sightseeing

One of the most visited spots in Scotland, you can tour the royal family's former home from home. Take the 34 bus to Ocean Terminal from Lochend Road, or it's 30-40 minutes on foot.
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Britannia Királyi Jachtja
Ocean Drive
630 helybéli ajánlásával
One of the most visited spots in Scotland, you can tour the royal family's former home from home. Take the 34 bus to Ocean Terminal from Lochend Road, or it's 30-40 minutes on foot.
Brave the 287 steps to the top of this gothic spire and you'll be rewarded with a great view of the city.
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Scott-emlékmű
302 helybéli ajánlásával
Brave the 287 steps to the top of this gothic spire and you'll be rewarded with a great view of the city.
You might think it's all about whisky round this way, but gin is the hipster drink of choice (I think) and Edinburgh gin is well thought of - here's a chance to take a look around and sample the products.
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Edinburgh Gin Distillery
1A Rutland Street
62 helybéli ajánlásával
You might think it's all about whisky round this way, but gin is the hipster drink of choice (I think) and Edinburgh gin is well thought of - here's a chance to take a look around and sample the products.
Gilmerton Cove is a series of hand carved passageways and chambers that lie below ground to the south of crossroads in Edinburgh's Gilmerton district. The entrance is through a visitor centre adapted from a traditional mining cottage. The origins of Gilmerton Cove remain a mystery: was it the work of 18th century local blacksmith George Paterson, a drinking den for gentry, a refuge for persecuted Covenanters, a smugglers lair or something more sinister...?
14 helybéli ajánlásával
Gilmerton Cove
16 Drum St
14 helybéli ajánlásával
Gilmerton Cove is a series of hand carved passageways and chambers that lie below ground to the south of crossroads in Edinburgh's Gilmerton district. The entrance is through a visitor centre adapted from a traditional mining cottage. The origins of Gilmerton Cove remain a mystery: was it the work of 18th century local blacksmith George Paterson, a drinking den for gentry, a refuge for persecuted Covenanters, a smugglers lair or something more sinister...?

Parks & Nature

A bit of a hidden gem - a loch in the city! The park was once meadow land belonging to the Earl of Moray, who used the loch for irrigation. You can see the estate's doo'cot (dovecote) still standing and parts of other historical buildings. These days it's a well-known nature spot, with visitors coming to see the wildfowl that gather there. The loch is home to a wide variety, including swans, geese, coots and mallards. Local children have worked with park rangers to make it a natural haven.
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Lochend Park
Lochend Park
12 helybéli ajánlásával
A bit of a hidden gem - a loch in the city! The park was once meadow land belonging to the Earl of Moray, who used the loch for irrigation. You can see the estate's doo'cot (dovecote) still standing and parts of other historical buildings. These days it's a well-known nature spot, with visitors coming to see the wildfowl that gather there. The loch is home to a wide variety, including swans, geese, coots and mallards. Local children have worked with park rangers to make it a natural haven.
You can walk the full length, which is 13 miles (and we have done it) or amble along parts of it. It takes you from Leith up to the Modern Art Galleries near Dean Village, or you can branch off on to the cycle paths and head to the fishing village of Newhaven (recommend the Old Chain Pier for a pint and a bite to eat). It's a real breath of fresh air out of, but still in, the city.
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Water Of Leith Ltd
29 Beaverhall Rd
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You can walk the full length, which is 13 miles (and we have done it) or amble along parts of it. It takes you from Leith up to the Modern Art Galleries near Dean Village, or you can branch off on to the cycle paths and head to the fishing village of Newhaven (recommend the Old Chain Pier for a pint and a bite to eat). It's a real breath of fresh air out of, but still in, the city.
You can walk to the top, or take a car some of the way and then walk - either way you'll get some stunning view of the city and the surroundings.
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Arthur trónja
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You can walk to the top, or take a car some of the way and then walk - either way you'll get some stunning view of the city and the surroundings.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) was founded in the 17th century and has been a centre for the study of plants for more than 300 years. It's also a beautiful space to spend a a sunny days. There's a lot to see, as well as exhibition spaces and a lovely cafe. It's a fringe venue during the Edinburgh Festivals as well - in 2016 you can catch Shakespeare in the Park.
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Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Arboretum Place
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The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) was founded in the 17th century and has been a centre for the study of plants for more than 300 years. It's also a beautiful space to spend a a sunny days. There's a lot to see, as well as exhibition spaces and a lovely cafe. It's a fringe venue during the Edinburgh Festivals as well - in 2016 you can catch Shakespeare in the Park.
This is a regional park. If you want to go hiking in the Pentlands it's worth checking their website for advice on trails and so on. You'll be rewarded with beautiful views across Edinburgh and beyond to the Borders.
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Pentland Hills Regionális Park
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This is a regional park. If you want to go hiking in the Pentlands it's worth checking their website for advice on trails and so on. You'll be rewarded with beautiful views across Edinburgh and beyond to the Borders.
A good spot for joggers (Neil favours two full circuits, which is about 5km), dog walkers, footballers and cricketers (in the summer), you'll find lots of Leithers here when the sun's out. It hosts the World Music festival the Edinburgh Mela, and occasional funfairs and other festivals. At the east end you can access the footpath to take you down towards Portobello.
96 helybéli ajánlásával
Leith Links
4 Links Gardens
96 helybéli ajánlásával
A good spot for joggers (Neil favours two full circuits, which is about 5km), dog walkers, footballers and cricketers (in the summer), you'll find lots of Leithers here when the sun's out. It hosts the World Music festival the Edinburgh Mela, and occasional funfairs and other festivals. At the east end you can access the footpath to take you down towards Portobello.
A place not even lots of locals know about, Dunbar’s Close Gardens is worth a look. It has been laid out in the style and character of a 17th century garden. Trees and manicured bushes create a shady area at the entrance, opening out into a suntrap full of lovely flowers, fruit trees and unusual plants. The garden was created by Sir Patrick Geddes (1854-1932) who lived on the Royal Mile at the time. He was an eminent Scots biologist who stressed the connection between health and the environment. Geddes had the vision for a network of inner city gardens, of which Dunbar’s Close is one. The garden was restored from wilderness in 1978. Entry is free.
20 helybéli ajánlásával
Dunbars Close Garden
137 Canongate
20 helybéli ajánlásával
A place not even lots of locals know about, Dunbar’s Close Gardens is worth a look. It has been laid out in the style and character of a 17th century garden. Trees and manicured bushes create a shady area at the entrance, opening out into a suntrap full of lovely flowers, fruit trees and unusual plants. The garden was created by Sir Patrick Geddes (1854-1932) who lived on the Royal Mile at the time. He was an eminent Scots biologist who stressed the connection between health and the environment. Geddes had the vision for a network of inner city gardens, of which Dunbar’s Close is one. The garden was restored from wilderness in 1978. Entry is free.

Arts & Culture

Scotland's new writing theatre. Always worth a punt. The bar is good fun too.
87 helybéli ajánlásával
Traverse Theatre
10 Cambridge St
87 helybéli ajánlásával
Scotland's new writing theatre. Always worth a punt. The bar is good fun too.
A beautiful space, this is Edinburgh's main rep theatre, producing a mixture of new works and classics.
79 helybéli ajánlásával
The Lyceum
30b Grindlay St
79 helybéli ajánlásával
A beautiful space, this is Edinburgh's main rep theatre, producing a mixture of new works and classics.
Lovely spot for the family - a range of toys, games and childhood experiences from history.
79 helybéli ajánlásával
Gyermekmúzeum
42 High St
79 helybéli ajánlásával
Lovely spot for the family - a range of toys, games and childhood experiences from history.
A great arts venue on the Royal Mile, it has live storytelling, exhibitions, music and more.
32 helybéli ajánlásával
Scottish Storytelling Centre
43-45 High St
32 helybéli ajánlásával
A great arts venue on the Royal Mile, it has live storytelling, exhibitions, music and more.
Pretty much as it says in the title - a space dedicated to poetry, particularly Scottish. Lots of resources on their website too.
11 helybéli ajánlásával
Scottish Poetry Library
5 Crichton's Cl
11 helybéli ajánlásával
Pretty much as it says in the title - a space dedicated to poetry, particularly Scottish. Lots of resources on their website too.
If you're here for the Edinburgh Fringe, this is where you can get information and buy/collect tickers, as well as pick up souvenirs. It's right at the heart of the Royal Mile so there's plenty going on around it too.
64 helybéli ajánlásával
Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society
180 High St
64 helybéli ajánlásával
If you're here for the Edinburgh Fringe, this is where you can get information and buy/collect tickers, as well as pick up souvenirs. It's right at the heart of the Royal Mile so there's plenty going on around it too.
OOTB is an arts and education trust, offering events, performances, exhibitions and more. It's based at the Drill Hall, which was built in 1901 for the Royal Scots Regiment, and is now a listed building. It's an innovative contemporary arts space, where you can enjoy the creative atmosphere, meet, discuss, eat, relax and learn.
66 helybéli ajánlásával
Out Of The Blue Drill Hall
36 Dalmeny St
66 helybéli ajánlásával
OOTB is an arts and education trust, offering events, performances, exhibitions and more. It's based at the Drill Hall, which was built in 1901 for the Royal Scots Regiment, and is now a listed building. It's an innovative contemporary arts space, where you can enjoy the creative atmosphere, meet, discuss, eat, relax and learn.
The Forest is a volunteer-run, collectively-owned, free arts and events project. As well as a vegetarian cafe, their events have included music, theatre, dancing, yoga, massage, poetry recitals, art displays, knit-ins, book tours, language teaching, monsterbike making…and plenty more.
19 helybéli ajánlásával
The Forest Cafe
141 Lauriston Pl
19 helybéli ajánlásával
The Forest is a volunteer-run, collectively-owned, free arts and events project. As well as a vegetarian cafe, their events have included music, theatre, dancing, yoga, massage, poetry recitals, art displays, knit-ins, book tours, language teaching, monsterbike making…and plenty more.
Stills Gallery has been a hub for photography since 1977. Exhibitions are free (11m-6pm every day) and they also offer facilities for photographers.
32 helybéli ajánlásával
Tills
1 Hope Park Cres
32 helybéli ajánlásával
Stills Gallery has been a hub for photography since 1977. Exhibitions are free (11m-6pm every day) and they also offer facilities for photographers.
Contemporary art gallery in the centre of Edinburgh - great place to hang out before catching a train. Open 11-6 Mon-Sat, and 11-5 on Sundays (and open later during the Festivals). Nice wee shop and cafe too.
103 helybéli ajánlásával
Fruitmarket Gallery
45 Market St
103 helybéli ajánlásával
Contemporary art gallery in the centre of Edinburgh - great place to hang out before catching a train. Open 11-6 Mon-Sat, and 11-5 on Sundays (and open later during the Festivals). Nice wee shop and cafe too.
Formerly the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh is now a creative hub for the arts with studio and workshop spaces. During the Edinburgh Festivals, Summerhall is Fringe Venue 26. There's a bar and a cafe, plus this is where Pickerings Gin is distilled, and Barneys beer is brewed.
161 helybéli ajánlásával
Summerhall
161 helybéli ajánlásával
Formerly the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh is now a creative hub for the arts with studio and workshop spaces. During the Edinburgh Festivals, Summerhall is Fringe Venue 26. There's a bar and a cafe, plus this is where Pickerings Gin is distilled, and Barneys beer is brewed.
Dovecot Gallery is a landmark centre for contemporary art, craft and design built around a leading international tapestry studio. it's in an amazing building in the city centre - minutes from the Royal Mile.
39 helybéli ajánlásával
Dovecot Studios
10 Infirmary St
39 helybéli ajánlásával
Dovecot Gallery is a landmark centre for contemporary art, craft and design built around a leading international tapestry studio. it's in an amazing building in the city centre - minutes from the Royal Mile.

Shopping

Great local fresh foods, and a wide range of fairtrade and organic produce too.
12 helybéli ajánlásával
Earthy Portobello
19 Windsor Place
12 helybéli ajánlásával
Great local fresh foods, and a wide range of fairtrade and organic produce too.
Fabulous place to buy gifts, this stocks items by local artists and artisans as well as a wide range of quirky cards, presents, bags and so on.
34 helybéli ajánlásával
Flux
80 High St
34 helybéli ajánlásával
Fabulous place to buy gifts, this stocks items by local artists and artisans as well as a wide range of quirky cards, presents, bags and so on.
Fabulous weekly market - every Saturday 10am-5pm. The first Saturday of every month it hosts the Vegan Quarter too. Fruit, vegetables, meats, fish, cheeses, gifts, snacks - it's got the lot. About a twenty-minute walk from the house and definitely worth it.
72 helybéli ajánlásával
Leith Market
Commercial Street
72 helybéli ajánlásával
Fabulous weekly market - every Saturday 10am-5pm. The first Saturday of every month it hosts the Vegan Quarter too. Fruit, vegetables, meats, fish, cheeses, gifts, snacks - it's got the lot. About a twenty-minute walk from the house and definitely worth it.
Provided my entire wardrobe as a student, and beyond. Vintage clothing of the everyday kind, and for all sorts of dressing up too. There is at least one other branch, but this is the original and the best.
88 helybéli ajánlásával
Armstrongs Vintage
81-83 Grassmarket
88 helybéli ajánlásával
Provided my entire wardrobe as a student, and beyond. Vintage clothing of the everyday kind, and for all sorts of dressing up too. There is at least one other branch, but this is the original and the best.
One of two Chinese supermarkets on Leith Walk. Great for teas (my favourite is green tea with brown rice), unusual snacks, herbs and so on, as well as groceries, and gifts too - tea sets and so on.
10 helybéli ajánlásával
PCY Oriental
201 Leith Walk
10 helybéli ajánlásával
One of two Chinese supermarkets on Leith Walk. Great for teas (my favourite is green tea with brown rice), unusual snacks, herbs and so on, as well as groceries, and gifts too - tea sets and so on.
Not just a bookstore - also a music shop. Rare vinyl, quality literature and bands playing in-store. A treat.
10 helybéli ajánlásával
Elvis Shakespeare
347 Leith Walk
10 helybéli ajánlásával
Not just a bookstore - also a music shop. Rare vinyl, quality literature and bands playing in-store. A treat.
Scotland's oldest delicatessen and wine merchant. The deli offers home-baked bread, cakes and biscuits, and an extensive range of cheese, champagne, cookery books, coffee, tea, kitchenware, pasta, rice, salami, sausages, oil, vinegar, port, dessert wine, whisky and wine. There is a cafe, cookery demonstrations, many special offers and it serves as a venue during the Festivals - a good place for jazz.
189 helybéli ajánlásával
Valvona Crolla
19 Elm Row
189 helybéli ajánlásával
Scotland's oldest delicatessen and wine merchant. The deli offers home-baked bread, cakes and biscuits, and an extensive range of cheese, champagne, cookery books, coffee, tea, kitchenware, pasta, rice, salami, sausages, oil, vinegar, port, dessert wine, whisky and wine. There is a cafe, cookery demonstrations, many special offers and it serves as a venue during the Festivals - a good place for jazz.
Authentic imported products from Spain, Mexico, America and spices from all over the world.
15 helybéli ajánlásával
Lupe Pinto's Deli
24 Leven St
15 helybéli ajánlásával
Authentic imported products from Spain, Mexico, America and spices from all over the world.
Specialising in vegetarian, vegan, Fair Trade and organic, there is so much you can get here: tea, hair and beauty products, chocolate, fresh fruit, veg and herbs, spices, flours, nuts, vitamins... I can't go in without picking something up.
165 helybéli ajánlásával
Real Foods
37 Broughton St
165 helybéli ajánlásával
Specialising in vegetarian, vegan, Fair Trade and organic, there is so much you can get here: tea, hair and beauty products, chocolate, fresh fruit, veg and herbs, spices, flours, nuts, vitamins... I can't go in without picking something up.
There are closer places to pick up beers and wines, but if you pop into Cornelius on your way back to ours you can bag a real treat. They hold some lovely wines and spirits and a great range of locally brewed beers too.
72 helybéli ajánlásával
Cornelius Beer & Wine
18-20 Easter Rd
72 helybéli ajánlásával
There are closer places to pick up beers and wines, but if you pop into Cornelius on your way back to ours you can bag a real treat. They hold some lovely wines and spirits and a great range of locally brewed beers too.

Entertainment & Activities

The place to catch new indie movies and a few old favourites. I remember seeing Trainspotting here when it first came out...
255 helybéli ajánlásával
Cameo Picturehouse
38 Home St
255 helybéli ajánlásával
The place to catch new indie movies and a few old favourites. I remember seeing Trainspotting here when it first came out...
This is where you can generally catch European films and arthouse movies. Lovely comfy seats and a great cafe/bar too.
185 helybéli ajánlásával
Filmhouse
88 Lothian Rd
185 helybéli ajánlásával
This is where you can generally catch European films and arthouse movies. Lovely comfy seats and a great cafe/bar too.