Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest
Undoubtedly, the best way to first catch a full view of Edinburgh is from the Edinburgh Castle grounds. This castle and fortress was the sanctuary for the Kings of Scotland. Part of the castle today is the National War Museum of Scotland. Visitors can see the Royal Apartments, including the room in which Scottish King James VI was born to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Visitors to the castle will see the Crown Room and other areas that hold museum-like artifacts. The One O'clock Gun is also found here. Every day except Sunday, it is fired at 1:00 so that everyone has the same time. Be sure to see St. Margaret's Chapel, the oldest structure in Edinburgh, standing for more than nine hundred years. If you have an interest in castles, remember that there are more castles than just this one approachable from the Edinburgh area.
Two interesting museums in Edinburgh are the Royal Museum and the Museum of Scotland. The Royal Museum houses many international collections found in thirty-six galleries. The beautiful Main Hall is decorated with ponds and fountains. There are all kinds of exhibits available at this location from art to industry. Music concerts are sometimes performed here, as well as other special events.
The Museum of Scotland is just what the name suggests, a history of the country. This history is followed from the very beginning of its geological life through present day. Some of Scotland's national treasures are found within these museum walls. Family events are often planned, and as with the Royal Museum, other special events are also on the museum's agenda throughout the year.
The Queen's official place of residence in Scotland is here in Edinburgh at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It is located at the end of a mile long stretch of road called the Royal Mile. The Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle with Holyroodhouse. The palace was built in the 12th century. Most of the tumultuous life of Mary, Queen of Scots was spent at this residence.
The Edinburgh Zoo is open every day of the year including holidays. In operation since 1913, the zoo is where more than fifteen hundred animals call home. Some of the animals here are from the endangered species lists. The zoo is located ten minutes from downtown Edinburgh.
Be sure to check out the shopping and attractions in the "Old Town" section of Edinburgh. There are many shops here that cater to interests of all kinds. Whether you are looking for antiques, jewelry, music, or art, it is all found here. There are also all kinds of restaurants in this part of this city. The Grassmarket and Victoria Street also offer great shopping experiences no matter what items might be on your shopping list.
For a spectacular view overlooking the city, be sure to visit the top of Calton Hill in the center of town. You will probably first see the monument that was constructed to look like the Parthenon in Athens, but never finished. Other monuments and an unforgettable view of the castle are available here, too. Visitors can drive or walk to Calton Hill.
Visit the St. Giles' Cathedral along the Royal Mile to see many memorials honoring noteworthy Scottish citizens of the past. This cathedral is also known for its stained glassed windows. St. Giles was founded around 1120, but more and more parts have been added and restorations done to the building over the centuries. Much of the present building was started after a fire to the original in 1385.
The Royal Botanic Garden was started in 1670. In the beginning, it was used to grow plants for their medicinal value. This is one of the most extensive gardens in the world. Check for special events and exhibits and stop by the cafe and shop that are also found on the grounds.
For another panoramic view of Edinburgh, try a visit to Holyrood Park and its highest point, Arthur's Seat. Visit some of the lochs and crags here. Locals will often suggest seeing the city from Arthur's Seat, which is actually an extinct volcano. The park covers more than six hundred acres.
If you would like a trip to the theater while visiting Edinburgh, check out what's playing at the King's Theater or the Edinburgh Festival Theater. You will be able to find everything from opera to drama, dance to musicals at one of these theaters.
The Edinburgh Canal Centre offers many kinds of cruises but be sure to book any of them that interest you in advance. Just a few cruises they give are Murder & Mystery Cruises, Dinner, Lunch, & Supper Cruises, Sightseeing Cruises, Afternoon Tea Dance Cruises, Christmas Cruises, Children's Party Cruises, and more.
Edinburgh is a city of many sights, sounds, and activities. Visitors will not be running out of things to see and do. Whether your interest is theater, museums, clubs, pubs, or an electrifying nightlife, you will be able to find it in Scotland's capital city. If perhaps you do not wish to go to clubs or pubs in the evening, try the Witchery Tours. These are nightly ghost walk tours around the Old City part of Edinburgh. Be advised that unlike most ghost walks in America, those in Edinburgh are likely to have characters jumping out at the participants.
Print article ||
Send to friend ||
Publish this Article ||
Author feedback ||
Add new Comment ||
Article Comments
