In & Around Edinburgh Guide | December 2021

Edinburgh IN AND AROUND

City Guide

December 2021

Christmas & Hogmany in Edinburgh Edinburgh Tours Virtual experiences History and storytelling Interactive Map Hotspots

Your complete guide to Edinburgh

We have declared!

| City Centre | New Town | Old Town | Leith | Maps | Royal Mile | West End | Rose Street | | Edinburgh Zoo | Botanic Gardens | South Queensferry | City Tours | Shopping | Dining |

Beside Edinburgh Castle!

Call 0131 226 3709 Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 2ND camera-obscura.co.uk

Navigate this Guide using the click buttons on this page to reach the sections you want to read first.

Explore

Festive Edinburgh

Bright Bus Tours

City Centre

West End

Old Town

Botanic Gardens

Edinburgh Zoo

Shopping

Dining

Walking Tours

Leith

S Queensferry

Maps

Rose Street

Glasgow

www.lovelochlomond.com

Edinburgh

Contents

An Edinburgh Christms

Christmas in Edinburgh ...

This month's front page image is courtesy of Forever Edinburgh

Expect a magical winter wonderland as Edinburgh's Christmas and Hogmanay return to the city. Between 20 November 2021 and 2 January 2022, the city becomes a festive hub, complete with bustling Christmas market and a wide variety of familyfriendly activities and events. Whether it’s a traditional pantomime, an after-dark light trail with warming hot chocolate, or a trip to a Christmas market, there’s plenty going on to ensure the whole family have a merry little Christmas

Glide through the festive season visit the skating rink 2021 sees the return of the popular Ice Rink, in its new home on George Street and, in a first for Edinburgh’s Christmas, will also feature skate-up festive food & drink Get your skates on and glide all the way up and down Edinburgh’s famous George St on the magnificent alpine ice rink, sponsored by Lidl GB, in partnership with Essential Edinburgh,

right up until January 2.

There are also kids' skating sessions: Skate along to child-friendly festive music at our family sessions. The kids, sessions will take place at 12:30, 13:15, and 14:00 every Saturday and Sunday and at 10:15, 11:00, and 11:45 between the 20-23 December

BOOK SKATING HERE

See Edinburgh from a unique perspective - take a spin on the Wheel BOOK WHEEL HERE

AN icon of Edinburgh’s Christmas, the Forth 1 Big Wheel gives passengers a unique perspective of our beautiful city.

Enjoy dazzling views of Edinburgh’s Christmas and beyond from the comfort of one of 36 enclosed, weather-proof pods, with an informative soundtrack by some of Forth 1’s finest DJs. One ride on the Forth 1 Big Wheel won’t be enough!

The wheel turns from 10am – 10pm

(last admission 9.45pm) tickets are date-specific but there are no set time slots - admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Please allow extra time if you plan to attend during busy periods.

Family tickets are also available.

Family tickets are valid for four people with a maximum of two adults. Each pod can fit up to six people.

Shop till you drop ... and then relax wth amazing street food NESTLED in the heart of Edinburgh, the traditional Christmas Market offers something for everyone.

With stalls selling everything from local and bespoke products and gifts to tasty treats, visiting the market is a must this year. There is no better way to soak up the festive atmosphere!

Open: 10am - 10pm every day with the exceptions of: December 24: 10am - 8pm; December 25: Closed; December 26: 12pm - 8pm; January 1: 12pm - 8pm.

Be a-maze-d in Santa Land SANTA Land has relocated to the lower level of West Princes Street Gardens this year.

Santa Claus himself will take up residency in his enchanting Grotto with Edinburgh Castle as the backdrop. The garden will be transformed into a magical Christmas haven for all the family, with a host of rides and attractions for all to enjoy.

You can experience the beautifully festive Christmas Tree Maze, and other family-friendly rides.

Santa Land is fully accessible from the entrances to West Princes Street Gardens from

Princes Street and King Stables Road. However, wheelchair users are advised that the ramped paths from Princes Street are particularly steep.

An accessible toilet is provided by Edinburgh City Council beside the playground area in West Princes Street Gardens - please contact a member of Edinburgh’s Christmas staff for the key.

Wheelchairs are welcome in the Christmas Tree Maze.

For patrons with other accessibility requirements, we recommend making yourself known to a member of Edinburgh’s Christmas staff who will be happy to assist you.

Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit to Santa. it’s the perfect way for children to get into the festive spirit.Meet the man himself, listen to him tell a magical tale and receive a wee gift.

Visits are in groups and begin every 30 minutes. Tickets must be purchased for a specific time slot before entering Santa’s Grotto. Visits last up to 25 minutes.

Pay and display parking for Santa Land is available on Frederick Street, George Street, Hanover Street and Kings Stables Road.

This is free for Blue Badge holders with no time limit. Full details and locations of street Blue Badge parking bays can be found on the City of Edinburgh Council website at www.edinburgh.gov. uk.

Sensory backpacks are available from the main information point in West Princes Street Gardens on request.

BOOK GROTTO HERE BOOK MAZE HERE

An Edinburgh Christmas

Christmas in Edinburgh ...

An Edinburgh Christms

Christmas in Edinburgh ...

Christmas at the Zoo

MAKE your evenings merry and bright this festive season with a magical journey through Edinburgh Zoo! A spectacular light trail will take you on a journey to discover the magic of Christmas spirit and Santa’s time at the zoo.

Until Sunday 2 January, you can glow around the route with projections, twinkling fairy lights and much more.

As part of Edinburgh Zoo's Christmas Nights, you will have the opportunity to book to visit Santa in his festive Grotto. Each group will have five-minute slots to meet Father Christmas, hear about his tales from the North Pole and receive an early festive surprise!

The festive grotto is on the Edinburgh Zoo’s Christmas Nights trail, located adjacent to our main lawn Designed for limited visitor numbers with a wide range of safety measures in place, Edinburgh Zoo’s Christmas Nights are sure to light up your winter.

for details or to book CLICK HERE.

Give your foodies a gift to remember FOOD tours gift vouchers now available with a special £5 off using the code XMAS21 when ordering. The vouchers are valid or two years and you can choose your own design!

Choose from Old & New Town Food & Drink Tour, Royal Mile Food Tour design your voucher and see the recipient smile when you hand it over this Christmas.

Eat walk Edinburgh food tours visit five venues tasting locally sourced Scottish food with three of the stops also having drink tastings. Your local guide will talk about the history of the area and recommend other places to visit after the tour is over as you walk between venues.

BOOK HERE: www.eatwalkedinburgh.co.uk

Winter Windows Spreading messages of festive cheer across the city, this year’s Winter Windows are inspired by the theme of ‘Connections and Kindness’.

This year’s theme allows Edinburgh’s school children to reflect on the connections made and kindness that they received and gave during the global pandemic. These colourful, vibrant stained-glass window designs showcase the creativity of Edinburgh’s school pupils and will be displayed across the city.

Light Night

This year Edinburgh’s Christmas has worked with Edinburgh-based artist Hannah Ayre, alongside Amanda Yates, to produce a contemporary art installation which illuminates the Mound with cascading geometric snowflakes. This installation sits alongside Edinburgh’s Christmas tree, donated by the Hordaland County Council in Norway, and will replace the traditional Light Night event.

Castle of Light Prepare to be dazzled this festive season as Edinburgh Castle is illuminated in a state of the art magical light installation, Castle of Light. Expect stunning visuals and a spectacle of colour as Rex, the castle’s famous red lion, guides you through the hidden treasures of the castle. The event runs until January 9, 2022.

BOOK HERE

Lights fatastic at the Botanics Treat your loved ones to a magical, festival illuminated trail at Christmas at the Botanics. Running on selected evenings until Sunday, Januar 2, 2022, you'll be treated to largerthan-life illuminations, dancing waterside reflections, trees drenched in jewel-like colour and sparkling tunnels of light. A crew of talented independent street food vendors will bring a delicious twist to tasty treats Aand visitors can complete their walk under the stars with a spiced winter warmer or hot chocolate and toast marshmallows at one of the purposebuilt fire pits.

BOOK HERE

A night at the Theatre WITH shows making a welcome return to theatres, this festive season there’s an array of exciting performances taking place at Edinburgh’s world-renowned theatres.

Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without a pantomime and this year The Brunton Theatre are hosting the traditional tale of Hansel and Gretel, while The King’s Theatre bring the timeless Sleeping Beauty to the stage.

Enjoy a festive visual treat of Scottish Ballet's The Nutcracker at the Festival Theatre. Follow Clara on an imaginative journey as she meets the dashing Nutcracker Prince, takes on the larger-

than-life Rat King, and is whisked into the luscious land of sweets by the Sugar Plum Fairy!

Indulge in the magic of Christmas as the Usher Hall hosts a variety of feel-good shows – from Dickens classic with a twist, The Muppet Christmas Carol - Film with Live Orchestra to festive classics with one of the original and best classical cross-over groups, Christmas with Il Divo.

Home to some of the world's biggest musicals, this Christmas Edinburgh Playhouse brings the much-loved White Christmas to the city. An enduring romantic comedy, it’ll warm up the coldest of cold winter nights.

HAVE A CAPITAL HOGMANY ....

An action-packed programme of events is set to take place in Edinburgh this New Year, as the city welcomes the start of 2022. The four day festival (Wednesday 29 December to Saturday 1 January) will see Edinburgh's famous Hogmanay festival revived, albeit on a smaller scale than pre-pandemic years. FIND OUT MORE

An Edinburgh Christmas

Christmas in Edinburgh ...

Explore Edinburgh

EDINBURGH AIRPORT

EDINBURGH TRAMS

EDINBURGH BUS STATION

SCOTRAIL

SCOTTISH CITYLINK 0871 266 3333 www.citylink.co.uk

AIRPORT BUS SERVICES

EH12 9DN 0844 448 8833 www.edinburghairport.com 0845 755 0033 www.scotrail.co.uk

(Airport Link) 0131 475 0110 www.edinburghtrams.com

CITY CABS TAXIS

EH3 8HP 0131 228 1211 www.citycabs.co.uk

Elder St. EH1 3DX 0871 200 2233 https://bit.ly/2HaKi4B www.lothianbuses.com/our-services/airport-buses/

LUMO

www.lumo.co.uk/

Explore Edinburgh ...

MERCAT TOURS

28 Blair Street 0131 225 5445 www.mercattours.com Mercat tours will give you a true sense of Scotland’s past that no guidebook can give – whether haunted or historic. To make sure you can explore every nook and cranny of Edinburgh without missing any of the best sites or stories Mercat have a range of day or evening ghost & history tours covering the Old & New towns, above ground or exclusively, underground! Engaging, enthralling, and most of all, entertaining!

TIMBERBUSH TOURS 0131 226 6066 www.timberbushtours.com Timberbush Tours will take you out of the city and into the parts of Scotland that you have read and dreamed about! With small group departures you can enjoy a friendly guided tour that brings you right into the heart of Scottish life, sights and loves such as whisky tours and breath taking scenery.

RABBIE’S TOURS

BRIGHT BUS TOURS St. Andrew’s Square.01506 534977 www.firstgroup.com/bright-bus-tours A fresh and vibrant new choice to the Open Top Bus Tour menu in Edinburgh. Enjoy the essentail historic and cultural sights and sounds of Edinburgh in the company of your tour guide.

Hop On and Off as often as you wish and enjoy free transport to Edinburgh Zoo when you show your BB ticket on any First Group service heading to the zoo. First tour departs Waverley Bridge at 9am with last at 16.00.

LITTLE’S CHAUFFEUR DRIVE

0141 883 2111 email reservations@littles.co.uk www.littles.co.uk Little’s is a UK award-winning family business headquartered in Glasgow and for over 50 years we have been looking after visitors to Edinburgh and Glasgow in style and comfort.

Making sure that you arrive safely at your destination, relaxed and on time is our priority and is the reason we are the first company of choice for travelling professionals, family groups and discerning travellers. Our expert team will ensure that everything is taken care of, whether you are looking for an airport transfer, a city tour or an extended sightseeing tour of Scotland.

With access to some of the best properties and restaurants in and around Scotland we can advise and inspire you on where the best places to suit your plans will be.

Waterloo Place 0131 226 3133 www.rabbies.com Award winning small group tour company offering guaranteed departures – you book, you go! Touring with a maximum of 16 passengers give you more time to experience the real, authentic Scotland with more time off the bus and with the locals. Book online or walk-in with tours covering one, two or three days.

HAGGIS ADVENTURES

St. Andrew’s Square 0131 220 0770 www.edinburghtour.com Experience the best of the city’s sightseeing with Edinburgh Bus Tours. Easy hop-on, hop-off open top bus tours covering a variety of themes.

All tours are conveniently located at Waverley Bridge right in the heart of the city.

0131 557 9393 www.haggisadventures.com Epic budget back packer 1 to 10 day tours of Scotland from Edinburgh. Legendary tales of epic road trips where life long friendships are formed and wild antics form part of the journey!

Blazing a trail across Scotland’s raw and rugged landscape, expect to experience much more than the traditional!

EDINBURGH BUS TOURS

T

he focus for 2021 is creating three Climate Action Blueprints - for Tour Operators, Accommodation Providers and Destinations.

They will enable anyone in these sectors to deliver their Climate Action Plans.

The blueprints will combine the frameworks, tools, best practice and resources required for delivering Climate Action Plans that align tourism with the need to reduce global emissions by at least half by 2030 and keep global warming within 1.5 degrees C. Tourism Declares will work with our members inside the Tourism Declares community to co-create the Blueprints transparently and collaboratively, and according to our climate equity and justice commitments.

We’ll post updates in our newsletters, and will regularly share content on the main website to encourage wider consultation and contributions. Even if you haven’t declared, we want to hear from you.

We’ll publish the three Blueprints by COP26 in November as free resources for anyone to use. We hope they will be adopted as the standard approach to transforming our industry.

Tell us what you need or know, so your challenges, experiences, expertise and solutions help frame the content and ensure our Blueprints are relevant and useful.

In addition to making these resources available, the Tourism Declares community will work, throughout 2021 and beyond, to create solutions that will help accelerate adoption of the Blueprints - including training offers and consultation services to spread and strengthen knowledge of best practices in climat

Share access to the tools and resources you use, own or have created. Where we find gaps, help in the co-creation of the tools and resources that are needed.

We want engagement from all across our industry to ensure a truly diverse range of experiences and voices are represented.

There are many ways to get involved, including:

Help us coordinate and deliver regular Learning and Action Events

Declare a climate emergency - all member of your organisation will then be able to join our growing community of people working in tourism coming together to share challenges and solutions.

Support us with research, editorial, translation, tech or design and help us maintain momentum by highlighting TD climate actions

Support our outreach by encouraging your network to get involved.

Contribute financially to accelerate the process and ensure we deliver the best Blueprints possible.

... HAS DECLARED

To know more, click here

Tourism Declares supports tourism businesses, organisations and individuals in declaring a climate emergency and taking action to reduce their carbon emissions.

COP26

Tourism Declares aims to inspire and encourage all sectors of the travel industry - including Operators, Agents, Platforms, DMCs, Tourism Boards, Trade Associations, Hotel chains, Academia, Airlines, Media and Service Providers - to acknowledge the climate emergency and develop appropriate action plans.

Bright Bus Tours Click here forVideo Grassmarket

Burns Monument Palace of Holyroodhouse

Edinburgh Castle Scotch Whisky Experience National Museum of Scotland Royal Mile

1 St Andrew Square 2 Lothian Road 3 Grassmarket 4 Chalmers Street 5 Johnston Terrace Lawnmarket,

6 Edinburgh Castle 7

Chambers Street (National Museum)

Knox House, 8 John Royal Mile Museum of Edinburgh,

9 Canongate

Scottish Parliament,

10 Canongate

11 Dynamic Earth 12 Holyrood Palace 13 Regent Road 14

St Andrew Square

(This is the terminus and where the tour ends)

Bright Bus Tours

The City Tour

www.BrightBusTours.com

City Centre

Edinburgh City Centre ...

E

dinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is situated on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth on the East Coast.

Edinburgh attracts more than a million overseas visitors a year and is the second most popuar tourist destination in the UK. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world with its

unique divide of Old Town and New Town.

Centuries of history have left their mark on this city, giving you the atmosphetic and medievalOld Town alongside the elegant Georgian New Town.

Each August, the city hosts the biggest annual international arts festival in the world.This includes the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, International Festival and Book Festival.

With so much to see and do it can be hard to know where to sgtart. Top attractions include Edinburgh Castle, St Giles Cathedral, The Scottish National Gallery, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, The Scottish Parliament building and the area known as the Grassmarket.

Excellent restaurants, elegant cocktail bars and great shopping abound in Edinburgh.

BY CAR

Scotrail (www.scotrail.co.uk) operates frequent services through the day from Glasgow Queen Street. Journey time is less than one hour with trains stopping at Edinburgh Haymarket (West End) and Waverley (city centre) stations.

Edinburgh has good motorway access by car from most areas of Scotland & the UK. Once in the city there are many secure public car parks. Check out www.ncp.co.uk for best rates and book in advance.

BY BUS

FROM LONDON

CityLink (www.citylink.co.uk) operate fast and frequent (every 15 minutes) coach services throughout the day between Glasgow Buchanan Street Bust Station and Edinburgh Bus Station which is located in the city centre close to St Andrew's Square. Tikets can be purchased online to the best fares.

Edinburgh has good motorway access by car from most areas of Scotland & the UK. Once in the city there are many secure public car parks. Check out www.ncp.co.uk for best rates and book in advance.

Free

HOT FUDGE SUNDAE DESSERT

SHOW THIS AD AND RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY HOT FUDGE SUNDAE WITH THE PURCHASE OF ONE ADULT MAIN ENTRÉE.

Cannot be used with any other offers. One per person per visit.* Other restrictions may apply.* Valid at Glasgow and Edinburgh Cafe locations only. Offer expires 01/05/2022.

#HardRockCafe | hardrockcafe.com Edinburgh | 20 George Street | +44 131 260 3000 Glasgow | 179 Buchanan Street | +44 141 353 8790 ©2019 Hard Rock International (USA), Inc. All rights reserved.

City Centre

BY TRAIN

City Centre

City Centre ...

T

Edinburgh New Town

he New Town is a central area of Edinburgh. It was built in stages between 1767 and around 1850, and retains much of its original neo-classical and Georgian period architecture.

Its best known street is Princes Street, facing Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town across the geological depression of the former Nor Loch, now Princes Street Gardens.

Together with the Old Town, the New Town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. The area is also famed for the New Town Gardens, a heritage designation since March 2001.

The New Town is home to the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy Building, both designed by Playfair and next to each other on The Mound. The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is on Queen Street.

Other notable buildings include the Assembly Rooms on George Street, the Balmoral Hote) with its landmark clock tower above Waverley Station, and the Scott Monument.

The New Town contains Edinburgh’s main shopping streets. Princes Street is home to many chain shops. George Street, once the financial centre, now has numerous modern bars, many occupying former banking halls, while Multrees Walk on St. Andrew Square is home to Harvey Nichols and other designer shops.

The St. James Centre, at the east end of the New Town, was an indoor mall completed in 1970. It closed on in 2016 and has been redeveloped as St James Quarter at a cost of £850,000,000.

Also, by the Waverley Station lies the Waverley Mall, which contains many high street stores including: Costa, McDonald’s, Sainsbury’s, KFC, Subway, Superdry and Greggs.

CALTON HILL A short walk from Prince’s Street brings you to carlton Hill and some truly outstanding Edinburgh views. Some of the best photographs of your trip will be taken as you walk up to the top and admire both the wider cityscape but also te stunning view towards Leith and the River Forth.

SCOTTISH NATIONAL GALLERY

The Mound 0131 624 6200 www.nationalgalleries.org The gallery has an amazing permanent collect and even more amazing, entry is free. The gallery is located right at the bottom of The Mound in the centre of Prince’s Street and a short walk from Waverly Station and minutes from The Royal Mile.

City Centre

GALLERY CLOSE

4B Howe Street 0131-466 5083 www.gallery-close.com One of Scotland’s only photography galleries, Gallery-Close is proud to represent a growing number of elite photographers.

One of the friendliest galleries to visit they are small but appreciate those who like to support small independent businesses. The photographers they represent are usually highly established but they also support new and up and coming artists.

The gallery is situated in the heart of the historic Georgian New Town in Edinburgh, midway between Princes Street and Stockbridge. It exhibits a variety of photographic work and individually themed exhibitions throughout the year.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SCOTLAND

LYCEUM THEATRE

Chambers Street 0300 123 6789 www.nms.ac.uk Explore the diversity of the natural world, world cultures, art and design, science and technology and Scottish history, all under one roof at the National Museum of Scotland. The museum of open daily and admission is free.

30b Grindlay Street. (off Lothian Road) 0131 248 4848 www.lyceum.org.uk The Lyceum is one of Scotland’s largest and most successful producing companies. The main output is drama during the September to May period. The theatre is also host to touring companies and entertainment during The Edinburgh International Festival shows.

SCOTT MONUMENT

EDINBURGH PLAYHOUSE

Princes Street Gardens 0131 52 4068 www.edinburgh.gov.uk Located on princes Street and dominating the landscape the Scott Monument is the largest monument to a writer in the world commemorating Sir. Walter Scott. The monument is open from April to September and offers amazing views from the top.

18-22 Greenside Lane 0131 524 3333 www.atgtickets.com Located at the top of Leith walk the Edinburgh Playhouse is famous for hosting popular plays and musicals plus other big acts when they come to town. Some of the biggest names in show business have played here.

City Centre

Main Menu

St James Quarter

S

t James Quarter is a new retail led, lifestyle district that fully integrates into and enhances Edinburgh’s City Centre providing an inspiring, attractive, and vibrant destination for locals and visitors to live, shop, eat, sleep and play.

St James Quarter houses an enviable line up of restaurants, cafés, bars, shops, public spaces and leisure venues covering 1.7 million square feet. St James Quarter is set to become a welcoming cultural and lifestyle hub for art, culture and fashion that will complement the city’s world-renowned cultural offering and support its vibrant events calendar.

Many brands are debuting in Scotland for the first time at St James Quarter: The Alchemist, &

Other Stories, Stradivarius, Bershka, and Pull&Bear to name a few. With these new additions as well as classic favourites and unique destinations like the one-of-a-kind Bonnie & Wild Food Hall, St James Quarter reinforces Edinburgh’s position as Scotland’s cosmopolitan lifestyle capital.

The naturally ventilated, canopy-roofed Galleria unites Edinburgh’s shopping districts, creating a walkable circuit and linking the path to Leith for an easier throughway across the city.

Easily accessible via public transit (including extended tram routes), by train or by car, St James Quarter is a brand-new, exciting hub created and curated for the people of Scotland.

www.stjamesquarter.com

FOUR and a half years in the making, Johnnie Walker Princes Street is the centrepiece of Diageo’s £185 million pound investment in tourism in Scotland.

systems, one person could visit Johnnie Walker Princes Street every day for more than two years and not have the same experience twice.

To mark the opening, a Johnnie Walker flag was raised above the landmark building by Ivan Menezes, Chief Executive, Diageo, and Barbara Smith, Managing Director of Johnnie Walker Princes Street against the backdrop of Edinburgh’s iconic skyline, including the world-famous Edinburgh Castle.

The cellar has become a true whisky treasury with some of the most unique whisky casks in the world gently maturing and waiting to be sampled by guests.

Set over 71,500 sq ft, it takes the concept of personalisation to a scale never before seen in a global drinks visitor experience.

The building – formerly the famous Binns department store for almost 100 years – will contain a state-of-the-art experiential retail space where shoppers can select from rare and exclusive whiskies, fill their own bottles and have them personalised.

With more than 800 flavour combinations available in the innovative dispensation

www.johnniewalker.com

Johnnie Walker Princes Street is crowned by two world-class rooftop bars and a terrace with breath-taking views, including the Explorer’s Bothy whisky bar stocked with 150 different whiskies, and the 1820 cocktail bar where drinks are paired with a carefully curated menu.

Johnnie Walker Princes Street opens its doors with a Green Tourism Gold Award – the highest sustainability accolade for a visitor attraction.

The building includes roof terrace planters to provide herbs for garnishes and infusions for drinks, a sedum roof covering and bird boxes to encourage biodiversity.

City Centre

Johnnie Walker Experience

West End

The West End

T

ucked away just behind Shandwick Place, the West End Village is one of Edinburgh’s hidden gems. At the very heart of the village lie both William Street and Stafford Street, where the colourful, stylish boutiques and some much-loved pubs and bars combine to create a bohemian feel to this part of Edinburgh. This is a wonderful area to explore at any time of the year.

ST MARY’S EPISCOPAL CATHEDRAL

THE GEORGIAN HOUSE

7 Charlotte Square Website In the late 1700s, this grand townhouse, now owned and run by the National Trust for Scotland, was at the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town development. The house was designed by acclaimed architect Robert Adam and was a true statement of luxury in an era of enlightenment, for those who could afford it.

It cost the first owner John Lamont (18th Chief of the Clan Lamont) £1,800 in 1796, and he went on to splash out on silver, finery. The house has been magnificently restored to show a typical Edinburgh New Town house of the late 18th and early 19th century. The fine collections of period furniture, porcelain, silver and glass reflect the Lamonts’ lifestyle and the social and economic context of the time. The kitchen and servants’ room give a glimpse of the arduous ‘below stairs’ life of the servants, who made the Lamonts’ elegant lifestyle possible. To pre-book your visit click here.

BUTE HOUSE

6 Charlotte Square Next door to The Georgian House is Bute House, the official office of Scotland’s First Minister, also owned by the NTS. While you can’t go inside, we recommend you stand back and admire the house’s spectacular Georgian facade with its towering pillars and grand doorway.

Palmerston Place 0131 225 6293 www.cathedral.net The three spires of St Mary’s dominate the skyline of the West End of Edinburgh and are clearly visible as you look west along Princes Street. The foundation stone was laid on 21st May 1874 by the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry, and the building consecrated on 30th October 1879. There are some impressive artworks within St Mary’s, including The Lorimer Rood Cross, which hangs over the Nave Altar and was designed as part of the National War Memorial by Sir Robert Lorimer and The Paolozzi Window which was designed by local artist Eduardo Paolozzi. It becomes a blaze of light and colour when hit by the Edinburgh sunshine.

St Mary’s Cathedral is the mother church of the Diocese of Edinburgh in the Scottish Episcopal Church. The Cathedral is open for personal prayer and public services.

WEST END FAIR

www,westendfair.co.uk

In August of each year, the churchyard of St John's Church on the corner of Princes St and Lothian Road, plays host to the West End Fair, Scotland’s premier Art & Design Fair.. Featuring the work of over 100 makers, designers and artists, admission is free, so you can visit as often as you like - and there's a cafe on site, with indoor and outdoor seating, for food and refreshments. With so many unique items for sale, it’s a great place to pick up a special gift or treat yourself. This year the Fair will run from August 7 to 29.

Tucked away on Rutland Court you’ll find a modern-day statue that is easily overlooked. Horse and Rider by Eoghan Bridge (1993) shows a man seated on a rearing horse's back, holding onto the top of its head.

www.edbookfest.co.uk

West End

EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL BOOK FESTIVAL

Main Menu

Also taking place during August is the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Since starting in 1983, it has now become a key event in the Edinburgh festival season and has grown rapidly in size and popularity. From its base in the leafy Charlotte Square Gardens, it produces and stages over 900 author events, covering a huge range of topics, offering thoughtprovoking entertainment and inspiration for adults, children, schools and communities. This year the festival will run from August 14 to 30.

USHER HALL

Lothian Road 0131 228 1155 www.usherhall.co.uk Scotland’s only five-star concert hall, The Usher Hall is an extraordinary blend of historical and contemporary, traditional and modern, both inside and out. Construction of the hall was funded by Andrew Usher, a whisky distiller and blender, who donated £100,000 to fund a new concert hall for the city. Opened in 1914, with refurbishment in 2010, every year the Hall welcomes a huge range of talent as well as conferences, sponsorship events, ceremonies, lectures and recording sessions.

Photos courtesy of Forever Edinburgh The area is well served by public transport options. If travelling by bus, Lothian Buses routes 3, 25, 31 and 33 will drop you off on the area’s main street, Shandwick Place on a regular basis. Haymarket Train Station, which has services from across Scotland, is close by, and the Airlink 100 bus to Edinburgh Airport has a stop directly outside the station. Running from York Place to Edinburgh Airport, Edinburgh Trams stop at stop between Atholl Crescent and Coates Crescent, conveniently placed to get you into the heart of the action quickly and easily.

Edinburgh Old Town

Edinburgh Old Town ...

T

he Old Town is the name popularly given to the oldest part of Scotland’s capital city of Edinburgh. It is a protected World Heritage Site and has preserved its medieval street plan.

The street layout is especially picturesque in Edinburgh, where the castle perches on top of a rocky crag, the remnants of an extinct volcano and the main street runs down the crest of a ridge, known as the Royal Mile. This is a superb example of a “crag and tail” landform, which was created during the last Ice Age. The hilltop crag was the earliest part of the city to be developed, which eventually became Edinburgh Castle.

The Royal Mile is the main route in the Old Town, which runs downhill from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Notable

buildings in the Old Town include St. Giles’ Cathedral, the Royal Museum of Scotland and the University of Edinburgh. This area has numerous underground streets and vaults.

The Old Town became home to some of the earliest “high rise” residential buildings, due to space restrictions caused by the narrowness of the Royal Mile. During the Edinburgh Festival, the High Street and Hunter Square become gathering points where performers of the Fringe advertise their shows.

The upper section of the Royal Mile is known as the Lawnmarket. Fascinating side alleys or closes, lead off on either side and are well worth exploring. Look out for Lady Stairs’s Close, where Robert Burns lived and also the site of the Writer’s Museum, which celebrates Burns

together with Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.

On approaching the Castle, there is a grand forecourt area. This is used for the Military Tattoo during the Festival. At other times, it offers splendid views across much of the city, as well as being the site of some fine statues.

GREY FRIARS BOBBY No visit is complete without rubbing the nose of Edinburgh’s most famous canine companion!

The story is legend and you can find Bobby’s statue just across the street from The National Museum Of Scotland. Once you have found him make sure you visit Greyfriar’s Kirk and graveyard where history abounds as well as amazing views of Edinburgh Castle from different photographic angle.

Edinburgh Old Town

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile ...

T

he Royal Mile runs through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, connecting the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, perched high on a base of volcanic rock, with the splendorous Palace of Holyroodhouse, resting in the shadow of Arthur's Seat.

The Mile is overlooked by impressive, towering tenements, between which cobbled closes and narrow stairways interlock to create a secret underground world.

Scattered with superb attractions such as The Real Mary King’s Close or the Scottish Storytelling Centre, historic sites including St Giles' Cathedral and some of the best eating and drinking spots in the city, the Royal Mile offers much to see and do.

For a glimpse of recent history, be sure to visit the ultra-modern Scottish Parliament, a striking building boasting a cutting-edge design.

22

EDINBURGH CASTLE

PALACE OF HOLYROODHOUSE

Castlehill

Canongate. Royal Mile 0131 556 5100 www.royalcollection.org.uk The Palace of Holyroodhouse or as it is more commonly know, Holyrood Palace, is the official residence of The Queen in Scotland. Flying of the Royal Standard indicates whether The Queen is at home, but the Palace itself remains open throughout the year and is an interesting and enlightening visit.

0131 225 9846 www.edinburghcastle.scot Edinburgh’s most visited attraction, the castle dominates the Edinburgh skyline and its story has shaped the nation’s history. Home to the one o’clock gun and many historic artefacts, the castle attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Top tip is to book your tickets online and get Fast Tracked at no extra cost.

SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING

Canongate. Royal Mile 0131 348 5000 www.scottish.parliament.uk Tours of the parliament building are free of charge and usually include a visit to the Debating Chamber, The Garden Lobby and Committee Room. They include detailed information about the work, history and procedures of the Scottish Parliament. Tours operate at scheduled times on Monday to Saturday subject to Parliament business. Check online for information or to book a tour.

ST. GILES CATHEDRAL High Street 0131 225 9442 www.stgilescathedral.org.uk Admission to this landmark, stunning cathedral is free and volunteer guides are on duty to welcome and assist visitors with guided tours on request. The Cathedral shop stocks a variety of souvenirs, gifts and books, some relating to the cathedral itself. The Cathedral is a tranquil stop during a hectic day of sightseeing.

The Royal Mile

Photo courtesy of Forever Edinburgh

THE SCOTCH WHISKY EXPERIENCE

OUR DYNAMIC EARTH Holyrood Road, EH8 8AS 0131 550 7800 www.dynamicearth.co.uk A visit to Dynamic Earth is like nothing else on Earth. It's a chance to experience the primeval forces of nature as they shaped our planet, to journey through space and time and even go on an Adventure around the world. Voted one of Edinburgh's best attractions on many occasions, it's a must visit for all the family of ages of a fantastic location to stage your next big event!

CAMERA OBSCURA & WORLD OF ILLUSIONS Castle Hill, Royal Mile 0131 226 3709 www.camera-obscura.co.uk Located right next to Edinburgh Castle. Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is the only spot in Edinburgh where you can explore the whole city without even leaving the room! Five floors of fascinating, interactive, hands-on exhibits.

Where 21st -century tech meets classic illusions and historic science. It’s a great day out.

354 Castlehill, The Royal mile. EH1 2NE 0131 220 0441 www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk The Scotch Whisky Experience is a five star visitor attraction at the top of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, where they have been inspiring visitors to Edinburgh about the joys of Scotch whisky for over 30 years. With over 3500 bottles of whisky from down the years on display, the stunning Amber Restaurant & Whisky bar to enjoy, whether you take a tour, visit the shop or enjoy an event or tasting, you are guaranteed a sensational experience.

Photo courtesy of Forever Edinburgh

Photo courtesy of Forever Edinburgh

23

The Grassmarket

The Grassmarket District ...

T

he Grassmarket was once the site of public executions!Thankfully the last of these was in 1784 and the area is now a lively, bustling area packed full of great places to eat and drink as well as an interesting collection of boutique shops.

Today Leith has developed into a picturesque waterfront area, lined with bistros, stylish bars and excellent restaurants. There are independent galleries and cultural festivals, such as the Leith Festival. Main attractions include the Royal Yacht Britannia, berthed at the quay and the Conran designed Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre.

Tourists come in huge numbers every year to board the decks of the Royal Yacht, where four Royal couples spent their honeymoon, including Prince Charles and Princess Diana. She has sailed more than a million miles around the globe and was finally decommissioned in 1997, marking the end of a Royal Yacht. Britannia was voted “Best Visitor Attraction in the UK” in 1999.

If you feel like a good walk, then this is a great place to spend an afternoon. There are still remains of the past in Leith, with old piers being a reminder of the Victorian Age. The Victoria Dock, Albert Dock and Edinburgh Dock have barely changed from the way they were in the past.

RABBIE’S TRAIL BURNERS

207 High Street. Royal Mile 0131 226 3133 www.rabbies.com Award winning small group tour company offering guaranteed departures – you book, you go! Touring with a maximum of 16 passengers give you more time to experience the real, authentic Scotland with more time off the bus and with the locals. Book online or walk-in with tours covering one, two or three days.

84 WEST BOW 0131 225 6745 www.witcherytours.com The caddies & Witchery Tours take a light hearted look at Edinburgh’s darker side including tales of witchcraft, plague and torture. Your ghostly guide will blend history with humour and facts with fables, while “jumper-ooters” provide guaranteed ghostly appearances!

MAMMA'S AMERICAN PIZZA

30 Grassmarket 0131 225 6464 www.mammas.co.uk Serving great pizza since 1986 Mammas specialise in freshly prepared stone baked and gluten free pizzas. With over 40 toppings to choose from including cactus, marshmallow or chocolate, you will find the perfect pizza and relaxed atmosphere to your liking.

FINNEGAN’S WAKE

9b Victoria Street 0131 225 8634 www.finnegans-wake.co.uk Finnegan’s Wake is a long established, quintessential Irish Pub located in a handy spot right on the egde of The Grassmarket and yards from the Royal Mile. There is live music most evenings as well as sports events screened at the venue.

O’OLIVIERO – ITALIAN KITCHEN 0131 226 3706 www.olivieros.co.uk Classically sophisticated but relaxed Italian dining awaits you at o’Oliviero on the Grassmarket. Only steps away from Edinburgh Castle, this place packs flavour into a variety of specialities made from quality ingredients, some brought directly from Italy! Enjoy classic homemade pasta dishes as well as a range of mains including Salmon alla Griglia, Risotto and homemade Tiramisu for dessert. A perfect end to a day of exploring.

MUSSEL & STEAK BAR

110 West Bow 0131 225 5028 www.musselandsteakbar.com This family run restaurant specialises in mussels, oysters, scallops and prime Scottish beef which are all supplied by well known farms from the West Coast area. You can pop in for a kilo of mussels or the signature “surf and turf” speciality.

TORO LOCO 60 Grassmarket 0131 629 1050 www.toroloco.co.uk Authentic and tasty Mexican Street Food.

Slow cooked meats freshly prepared on the premises each day together with beans, salsas and guacamole all made daily. Enjoy a full range of great food to sit in and enjoy in a relaxed atmosphere with an awesome chilled margarita to sip or take away something warm to enjoy as you explore the Grassmarket!

MAXIES BISTRO & WINE BAR

5b Johnston Terrace 0131 226 7770 www.maxiesbistro.com Maxies is a unique family-run restaurant with a delightful outlook over The Grassmarket. There is something for everyone from luxurious seafood platters to sizzling steaks. Combine this with a an extensive wine list and you have the perfect place to relax with friends or family.

OINK HOG ROASTS

4 Victoria Street 07771 968233 www.oinkhogroast.co.uk If you are looking for a deliciously different lunch or snack then treat yourself to a freshly carved hog roast roll with succulent meat freshly prepared daily. Try the sublime crackling and enjoy with gravy or apple sauce. A really enjoyable lunch experience.

Main Menu

The Grassmarket

CADIES & WITCHERY TOURS

Edinburgh Botanic Gardens

Edinburgh Botanic Garden ...

T

he Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a highlight of any visit to the Scottish Capital.

A national treasure of Scotland, this spectacular Living Collection is over 350 years old.

Visitors can experience an extravaganza of plants from around the world, learn about the Garden's rich and diverse Living Collection and discover a history dating back to the 17th century.

Set in over 70 acres of beautiful landscape and just one mile north of the city centre, the Garden offers superb panoramic views of the city skyline featuring Edinburgh Castle.

The Botanics, as the Garden is affectionately known locally, is breathtaking at any time of year.

browse a wonderful array of botanically inspired gifts, books and sustainable products, as well as a fabulous selection of house plants and pots.

Garden highlights include the Rock Garden, the Alpine Houses, Woodland Garden, Pond, the Arboretum or tree collection, the Chinese Hillside, the Rhododendron Collection and the Scottish Native Plants Collection in the Heath Garden.

In the Greenhouse you will find seasonal plants and garden accessories, ideal for the urban gardener.

Visitors cannot help but leave with a deeper appreciation and understanding of the importance of plants in our world, and the need to support the Garden's important work.

Visit the newly refurbished Botanics Shop in the John Hope Gateway visitor centre and

An extensive refurbishment of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh cafes was completed at the end of July and includes the transformation of its dining spaces and a new menu, packed with seasonal flavours, to welcome visitors back to the well-loved cultural destination.

www.rbge.org.uk/

Edinburgh Botanic Gardens

EDINBURGH BOTANICS - A garden for all seasons

Main Menu

Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh Zoo

H

ave an unforgettable day out at Edinburgh Zoo with over 1,000 incredible animals from around the world, just minutes from the city centre.

No two visits to Edinburgh Zoo are ever the same!

All your favourite animals are waiting to welcome you back from Edinburgh Zoo's paddling penguins to the famous giant pandas.

You won't want to miss out on seeing their newest arrivals either – the zoo have

welcomed giraffes back to Edinburgh for the first time in 15 years. The bachelor herd have moved in to a brand-new giraffe house that has been designed with high level walkways which means visitors can meet these wonderful creatures face-to-face!

Safety comes first and with even more of you planning to see the incredible animals and enjoy outdoor spaces while restrictions are still in place, it is really important to be aware of what might be different on the day, including limited parking spaces, the

queues for entry and indoor areas, and more – please read the information on the Edinburgh Zoo website to find out what to expect.

Book in advance today to meet Edinburgh Zoo's amazing animals and learn about their wildlife conservation work to protect species in Scotland and around the world.

134 Corstorphine Road 0131 334 9171

www.edinburghzoo.org.uk

The land lies on the south facing slopes of Corstorphine Hill, from which it provides extensive views of the city.

Built in 1913, and owned by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, it receives over 600,000 visitors a year, which makes it oneof Scotland's most popular paid-for tourist attractions, after Edinburgh Castle.

Photos courtesy of RZSS Edinburgh Zoo

Main Menu

As well as catering to tourists and locals, the zoo is involved in many scientific pursuits, such as captive breeding of endangered animals, researching into animal behaviour, and active participation in various conservation programs around the world.

Edinburgh Zoo was the first zoo in the world to house and to breed penguins. It is also the only zoo in Britain to house Queensland koalas and giant pandas.

Edinburgh Zoo

E

dinburgh Zoo, formerly the Scottish National Zoological Park, is an 82-acre (33 ha) non-profit zoological park in the Corstorphine area of Edinburgh, Scotland.

Edinburgh Shopping

Shopping in Edinburgh ...

PRINCES STREET GARDENS

Princes Street Gardens is the venue for seasonal markets including the Traditional German Christmas Market while the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market selling fresh home-grown produce is held every Saturday from 9am - 2pm in nearby Castle Terrace.

BONNIE & WILD

S

hopping in Edinburgh is more than retail therapy it is an adventure in its own right.

The city offers everthing from utra-modern shopping centres caterng for all tastesand high end world famous names behind impressive Georgian facades to the fascinating range of streets stalls and pop-up shops which are colourful feature of the Edinburgh Festival.

And while Princes Street only has shops on one side it still offers top class shopping and of course breathtaking views across the iconic Princes Street Gardens to the magnificence of Edinburgh Castle perched on its basalt plug and presiding over the dramatic old town skyline.

This cosmopolitan city also hosts open air markets and car boot sales throughout the year and Edinburgh’s Winter Market in December is a popular destination .

St James Quarter www.bonnieandwild.com Bonnie & Wild’s Scottish Marketplace is Edinburgh’s first Food Hall. Within their easily accessible venue in the heart of St James Quarter, you’ll find more than a dozen food stalls and speciality retailers, alongside three bars, a private dining area, demonstration kitchen, children’s play area and flexible, multi-purpose events spaces… as well as open-plan seating for almost 400 people!

& OTHER STORIES

St James Quarter www.stories.com & Other Stories offers women a wide range of shoes, bags, accessories, beauty and readyto-wear. Ateliers in Paris, Stockholm and Los Angeles design diversified fashion and beauty collections with great attention to detail and quality. & Other Stories’ St James Quarter location is the brand’s first in Scotland.

HECTOR RUSSELL

137-141 High Street, Royal Mile 0131 558 1254 Facebook Long standing Kilt Maker and Highland dress specialists located in the heart of Edinburgh.

Everything from tartan trews and skirts to full Highland Dress as well as a lovely range of accessories and jewellery.

St Andrew Square is a garden square located at the east end of George Street.

The gardens, part of the collection of New Town Gardens, are owned by a number of private owners, managed by Essential Edinburgh and opened to the public in 2008.

The construction of St Andrew Square began in 1772, as the first part of the New Town, designed by James Craig. Within six years of its completion St Andrew Square became one of the most desirable and most fashionable residential areas in the city.

As the 19th century came to a close, St Andrew Square evolved into the commercial centre of the city. Most of the square used to be made up of major offices of banks and insurance companies, making it one of the major financial centres in Scotland.

It now also has shops, including the department store Harvey Nichols, the Edinburgh Grand Hotel and apartments, and a series of London chain restaurants and bars on its south side, such as Hawksmoor, Drake & Morgan, Dishoom and The Ivy. Dominating the centre of St Andrew Square is the fluted column of the Melville Monument, commemorating Henry Dundas, the first Viscount Melville, best known for campaigning for the abolition of slavery.

The Melville Monument is surrounded

by St Andrew Square Gardens, recently redesigned and opened to the public.

Home of Harvey Nichols, Louis Vuitton, Nespresso and many other exclusive fashion brands mean the Multrees Walk shopping experience is second to none.

Multrees Walk is also home to directional young fashion brands as well as established luxury labels like Michael Kors and Mulberry catering for even the most demanding fashionistas.

Multrees Walk is a pedestrian shopping area off the east side of St. Andrew Square.

Created in 2003 as part of a redevelopment, it links St Andrew Square and St James Shopping Centre and its shops sell luxury goods including clothing, stationery and handbags.

Harvey Nichols, the department store, is the anchor of the development and has its main entrance on St. Andrew Square, but there is a smaller entrance on Multrees Walk.

Multrees Walk, Harvey Nichols and Edinburgh Bus Station (which sits below ‘Multrees Walk’ and is accessed by escalators from St Andrew Square or from Elder Street) was designed by Edinburgh architects CDA. The shopping development features a number of brands from across the globe, many of which have located their only Scottish store within the walk.

http://www.multreeswalk.co.uk/

St Andrew Square & Multrees Walk

Edinburgh Shopping

Multrees Walk is the definition of luxury shopping.

Edinburgh Shopping

Waverley Mall

W

averley Mall is Edinburgh's central shopping mall, located right on the corner of Princes Street and Waverley Bridge, where you'll find a wide range of shops to peruse.

The major highlight of this mall is its construction. It's built underground to offer convenient shopping right in the centre of Edinburgh without disrupting the view of Edinburgh Castle and Old Town from Princes Street.

That's why the rooftop plaza is largely flat.

Of course, the mall was also inspired by Waverley Market, the trading centre that was in the same spot decades before the mall opened in 1984.

You'll find all sorts of shopping opportunities at Waverley Mall. In the upper mall, you can enjoy high-street fashion favourites with shops like Superdry and New Look.

More obscure shops, like Damaged Society, are also found here. You can also find ethical cosmetics and bath shops on this floor, as

well as a Starbucks coffee shop.

The lower floor of the mall consists primarily of restaurants. You can find a quick bite to eat in the local McDonald's or Subway, or you can order takeaway from the local Chopstix and Indian Express.

The rooftop plaza contains a few shops as well, including The Whisky Shop and Arran Aromatics, offering unique drinks and scented gifts, respectively.

3/48 Waverley Bridge 0131 557 3759 www.waverleymall.com

BERSHKA

St James Quarter www.bershka.com Bershka’s fashion is aimed at adventurous young people, who are aware of the latest trends and are interested in music, social networks and new technologies. Bershka was founded in 1998 as a ground-breaking retail fashion concept, delivering the very latest trends to urban and connected young people. The brand has three main lines, Bershka, BSK and Man, creating a wide spectrum of available styles from evening wear, casual, basics, sports, jeans, accessories and footwear, to the latest street trends .

Photo by Lucy Knott Photography

ONE WORLD SHOP

St John’s Church, Princes Street, EH2 4BJ 0131 229 4541 www.oneworldshop.co.uk One World Shop is Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop, selling goods sourced from all around the world. Their suppliers adhere to the WFTO 10 Principles of Fair Trade so not only can you buy beautiful gifts & homewares, they’re exploitation free. They also sell a wide range of organic and vegan products.

ANTHROPOLOGIE

39 - 41 GEORGE STREET EH2 2HN 0131 370 1673 www.anthropologie.com Anthropologie UK is a destination for the creative, worldly woman. Their mission is to surprise and delight with unexpected, distinctive finds for your wardrobe and home.

They source and craft all of their products with care, offering a carefully curated collection of clothing, accessories, homeware, and furniture.

ROBERT GRAHAM’S WHISKY SHOP

254 Canongate. Royal Mile 0131 556 2791 www.robertgraham1874.com Located on the Royal Mile, Robert Graham is one of the country’s oldest tobacco and whiskey merchants where expert advice and knowledge about both whiskey and cigars make choosing the right product an enjoyable experience.

Enjoy browsing and examining the huge range of branded malts as well as Robert Graham’s own aged bottlings, as well as a fine selection of Cuban cigars.

Edinburgh Shopping

HARVEY NICHOLS

30-34 St Andrew Square www.harveynichols.com Recognised as the UK’s premier luxury fashion retailer, Harvey Nichols is internationally renowned for its expertly edited fashion and beauty merchandise, premium food and wine offer and awardwinning restaurants. Harvey Nichols offers the ultimate fashion experience. Seen as ‘the place to be’, Harvey Nichols is the club that doesn’t require a membership. Exclusive, niche and established labels sit alongside accessible everyday collections, offering customers the must-have edit for all their wardrobe needs – from everyday to extraordinary.

Main Menu

Ocean Terminal

O

cean Terminal is Edinburgh’s unique waterfront shopping and lifestyle destination.

Regarded by many as Edinburgh’s most relaxing shopping environment it has a great mix of retail, leisure and dining options including Nando’s, Pizza Express and Zizzi as well as food on the go from Subway and Greggs.

Anchored by M&S Simply Food, its stylish and calming ambience is supported by a mix of coffee bars, 24 hour gym, 12 screen Vue Cinema, skatepark and top tourist attraction, The Royal Yacht Britannia.

With over 1,600 free car parking spaces it is located just three miles from Edinburgh City Centre sitting on Leith’s waterfront overlooking the magnificent Firth of Forth.

There is a weekly market place Saturday & Sunday on the ground floor, near the main entrance.

Offering something different to the shopping experience at the centre, visitors can browse an array of exhibiting stalls from bakery and confectionary to handcrafted and locally designed jewellery and gifts.

There is also a weekly Car Boot Sale every Sunday, 7.30am – 12.30pm on Level E & F in

the Red Car Park.

Cinema lovers can luxuriate in the amazing Vue 12 screen cinema with every seat a recliner. Focused on being the best but not necessarily the biggest in the business they aim to consistently provide the best possible cinema experience, delivered by friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Ocean Drive, Leith, EH6 6JJ 0131 475 9400 www.oceanterminal.com

Edinburgh Dining

Dining in Edinburgh ...

THE MUSSEL INN

61-65 Rose Street 0131 225 5979 www.mussel-inn.com Visit The Mussel inn seafood restaurant on Rose Street, just one block from Princes Street, and enjoy delicious, fresh seafood and other selections at affordable prices while watching Edinburgh’s city centre hustle and bustle after a full day of sightseeing.

BELLA ITALIA

55 North Bridge 0131 225 2044 www.bellaitalia.co.uk Drop by for a warm welcome and delicious, homely Italian food. We’re brilliantly located on the corner of the Royal Mile & North Bridge – just yards from St. Giles Cathedral and a short walk from Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse..

THE HUB CAFÉ & RESTAURANT

0131 473 2000 www.thehub-edinburgh.com The Hub, an iconic Edinburgh landmark, towers above the heart of the city dominating the skyline of the Royal Mile. The Hub’s interior pulsates with colour, full of style and verve.

Food is served all day and the menu is packe fine use of locally produced ingredients.

TORO LOCO WHISKI

119 High Street 0131 556 3095 www.whiskibar.co.uk Whiski is a stunning multi award winning whisky bar and restaurant on the Royal Mile. Whiski serves fresh, locally sourced seafood, lamb, beef and venison and has a selection of over 300 malt whiskies to keep any connoisseur happy!

WHISKI ROOMS & WHISKI SHOP

North bank Street (top of The Mound) 0131 225 7224 www.whiskirooms.co.uk Visit Whiski Rooms (around the corner from The Royal Mile & Edinburgh Castle) for a great experience of all day dining. The restaurant serves the very best of Scottish food and drink in stunning surroundings including the Whisky Bar and Ardbeg Embassy Dining Room. Perfect for lunch or dinner after a days sightseeing or why not book a private dining room and enjoy a bespoke, personal dining experience.

60 Grassmarket 0131 629 1050 www.toroloco.co.uk Authentic and tasty Mexican Street Food.

Slow cooked meats freshly prepared on the premises each day together with beans, salsas and guacamole all made daily. Enjoy a full range of great food to sit in and enjoy in a relaxed atmosphere with an awesome chilled margarita to sip or take away something warm to enjoy as you explore the Grassmarket!

FRANKENSTEIN’S BAR & RESTAURANT

26 George IV Bridge 0131 622 1818 www.frankensteinedinburgh.co.uk Three floors, three bars & one monster! They have great food, a lively atmosphere and every day you can enjoy a one of a kind experience.

Lights, music and sound effects accompany the animatronic Frankenstein monster as he descends from the ceiling and awakens!

Dining in Edinburgh ...

30 Grassmarket 0131 225 6464 www.mammas.co.uk Serving great pizza since 1986 Mammas specialise in freshly prepared stone baked and gluten free pizzas. With over 40 toppings to choose from including cactus, marshmallow or chocolate, you will find the perfect pizza and relaxed atmosphere to your liking. Mamma’s also offers an extensive wine and beer list , alternative mains and some scrumptious dessert options

O’OLIVIERO – ITALIAN KITCHEN 0131 226 3706 www.olivieros.co.uk Classically sophisticated but relaxed Italian dining awaits you at o’Oliviero on the Grassmarket. Only steps away from Edinburgh Castle, this place packs flavour into a variety of specialities made from quality ingredients, some brought directly from Italy! Enjoy classic homemade pasta dishes as well as a range of mains including Salmon alla Griglia, Risotto and homemade Tiramisu for dessert. A perfect end to a day of exploring.

Welcome Back Vapiano!

VAPIANO 7 South St. David Street EH2 2BD 0131 285 6123 www.vapiano.com The home of fresh pasta in Edinburgh is back!

Vapiano on St Andrew’s Street is open and welcoming guests to its beautifully upgraded restaurant. With its new, stunning menu going live now plus three floors of space you will enjoy cocktails, pizza and of course Vapiano’s legendary hand made, cooked to order fresh pasta with a devine selection of freshly made sauces. A short walk from Edinburgh Waverley station and St Andrew Square. Walk in and order or order online.

Edinburgh Dining

MAMMA'S AMERICAN PIZZA

Edinburgh Dining

Dining in Edinburgh ...

HARD ROCK CAFÉ

20 George Street 0131 260 3000 www.hardrock.com Celebrating over 15 years in the city, The Hard Rock welcomes you with the style and mantra of Love All Serve All. Enjoy great music, fine cocktails and Hard Rock’s world famous burgers and other food selections. Indulge yourself or buy great presents to take home from the retail store.

CAFÉ ROUGE

43 Frederick Street 0131 225 4515 www.caferouge.co.uk Conveniently located minutes from Princes Street and yards from George Street, Café Rouge is an ideal spot to relax over a coffee, lunch with friends or indulge with an intimate dinner and enjoy watching life in Edinburgh throughout the day.

VAPIANO 7 South St. David Street EH2 2BD 0131 285 6123 www.vapiano.com A fresh, vibrant Italian pizzeria, restaurant and bar right in the heart of the city serving the finest fresh produce and beautifully prepared wood oven pizzas and wonderful pasta dishes with guests enjoying face-to-face interactions with chefs as they cook their dish to order, exactly as they like it.

MAXIES BISTRO & WINE BAR

5b Johnston Terrace 0131 226 7770 www.maxiesbistro.com Maxies is a unique family-run restaurant with a delightful outlook over The Grassmarket. There is something for everyone from luxurious seafood platters to sizzling steaks. Combine this with a an extensive wine list and you have the perfect place to relax with friends or family.

SEEDS FOR THE SOUL

167 Bruntsfield Pl, Edinburgh EH10 4DG 07389 899394 www.seedsforthesoul.co.uk Seeds for the Soul have built up a cult following in Bruntsfield since they opened in early 2018.

This cosy café is all about the plant-based dining, with absolutely no animal products in their menu whatsoever.

MUSSEL & STEAK BAR

110 West Bow 0131 225 5028 www.musselandsteakbar.com This family run restaurant specialises in mussels, oysters, scallops and prime Scottish beef which are all supplied by well known farms from the West Coast area. You can pop in for a kilo of mussels or the signature “surf and turf” speciality.

FINNEGAN’S WAKE

9b Victoria Street 0131 225 8634 www.finnegans-wake.co.uk Finnegan’s Wake is a long established, quintessential Irish Pub located in a handy spot right on the egde of The Grassmarket and yards from the Royal Mile. There is live music most evenings as well as sports events screened at the venue.

OINK HOG ROASTS

4 Victoria Street 07771 968233 www.oinkhogroast.co.uk If you are looking for a deliciously different lunch or snack then treat yourself to a freshly carved hog roast roll with succulent meat freshly prepared daily. Try the sublime crackling and enjoy with gravy or apple sauce. A really enjoyable lunch experience.

THE DOME

14 George Street 0131 624 8624 www.thedomeedinburgh.com Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town since 1996 The Dome is well known to many as a stunning bar and restaurant. It has become established as a first choice venue to meet friends and colleagues for coffee, cocktails, lunch or dinner.

WAGAMAMA

Castle Terrace (Lothian Road) 0131 229 5506 www.wagamama.com Delicious noodles, rice dishes, salads and freshly squeezed juices all brought together in a vibrant busy restaurant makes Wagamama a great family destination.

TUPINIQUIM

Green Police Box, Lauriston Place, Edinburgh EH3 9AU Walking along Middle Meadow Walk, you may be drawn to the little Police Box on the corner with a lovely aroma of crepes - which also happen to be very delicious and healthy!

Tupiniquim use their own special blend of gluten free flour, which is so special that they bag it and sell it from their little kiosk. For a satisfying and savoury treat, why not try the butternut squash, spinach and sundried tomato crepe, with a bit of optional cheese? This is a great street food pit stop in the Old Town, serving sweet and savoury gluten free crepes since 2010.

Main Menu

Edinburgh Dining

Dining in Edinburgh ...

Edinburgh Walking Tours

Walking Tours in Scotland was established by Liv & Jenny, two people passionate about showing off Scotland's cities to all who visit. Last year they expanded the tours from Glasgow to other cities across Scotland and since then their team of enthusiatic locals has grown but the essence of the tours has remained the same.

EDINBURGH TOURS Edinburgh: The Old Town Tour

Connect with a local guide and immerse yourself in the tales and sights of Edinburgh’s Old Town. From its historic roots to modern life in the city today, this leisurely 1.5 hour wander of the cobbled streets and alleyways will give you a great overview and introduction to Scotland’s capital city. The tour will take in the classics, from Edinburgh Castle to the Royal Mile as well as many more hidden secrets only known by our true local experts! Your dedicated guide will taylor the tour to your own interests, so you’ll be sure to learn something new whether you’re visiting for the first time or even live here! Private Tour Only

What better way to explore this iconic city than through the tales and experiences of those who have lived here through the ages.

Immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s past, present and future on this 1.5 hour walking tour. Your dedicated local guide will bring to life the stories of famous and lesser known people of Edinburgh’s past and present, their experiences and how key events have shaped the city into the vibrant and lively place you see today. Public & Private Tours Available

Walking & dinng in South Queensferry Join Walking Tours in Scotland and The Three Bridges Restaurant for this combined storytelling, Scottish culture, history and dining package. You will enjoy a onehour walking tour of South Queensferry followed by your first course of Scottish cuisine. Your dining experience will include more stories and tales from your guide, followed by your second course. You will find out more about the leafy town of South Queensferry, industry in the area, the history behind The Three Bridges and culture and community in and around South Queensferry across your tour.

www.walkingtoursin.com : 0141 474 0746

Main Menu

Rose Street

Rose Street D

esigned as part of James Craig’s New Town plan in 1767, Rose Street was named after the national flower of England, a consciously unionist pairing with Thistle Street.

In the 19th century, Rose Street gained a reputation as a seedy area of town but by the 1960s this had started to change, as tenement flats gave way to antique shops and boutiques.

In 1973 the transformation was completed as the section between Castle Street and Frederick Street became the first pedestrianised street in the city.

Behind No.180 Rose Street there was once a court for playing Rackets, a forerunner of the modern game of squash.

In 1830 McVitie’s provision shop opened at No.129 Rose Street, establishing the famous firm of biscuit manufacturers who went on to create the digestive biscuit.

In the 1950s and 60s Rose Street became well-known as the haunt of a new wave of Scottish poets.

Writers such as Hugh MacDiarmid and Robert Garioch gathered with their friends for lively debate, in places such as Milne’s Bar, the Abbotsford and the Café Royal. Rose Street is now famous for its many pubs and eateries and is well worth a visit.

Main Menu

Leith

Leith ...

T

he district of Leith rests on the shores of the Firth of Forth at the mouth of the Water of Leith. The original harbour dates back to the 14th century and has been the port of Edinburgh for hundreds of years.

Today Leith has developed into a picturesque waterfront area, lined with bistros, stylish bars and excellent restaurants. There are independent galleries and cultural festivals, such as the Leith Festival. Main attractions include the Royal Yacht Britannia, berthed at the quay and the Conran designed Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre.

Tourists come in huge numbers every year to board the decks of the Royal Yacht, where four Royal couples spent their honeymoon, including Prince Charles and Princess Diana. She has sailed more than a million miles around the globe and was finally decommissioned in 1997, marking the end of a Royal Yacht. Britannia was voted “Best Visitor Attraction in the UK” in 1999.

If you feel like a good walk, then this is a great place to spend an afternoon. There are still remains of the past in Leith, with old piers being a reminder of the Victorian Age. The Victoria Dock, Albert Dock and Edinburgh Dock have barely changed from the way they were in the past.

THE ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA

Ocean Terminal 0131 555 5566 www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk No visit to Leith or indeed Edinburgh is complete without stepping aboard The Royal Yacht Britannia. A floating home to Her Majesty, The Queen and The Royal Family for over 40 years, sailing over 1,000,000 miles, the vessel is now on permanent display in Leith where you can follow in the footsteps of royalty and discover the heart and soul of this most special of Royal residences.

The Royal Yacht has won Best Attraction in the UK 2020, as voted for by Which? members. The Queen’s former floating palace, berthed in Leith, Edinburgh, came out on top when nearly 5,000 Which? members were asked to rate the UK’s 50 most visited attractions.

TAPA BARRA Y RESTAURANTE

19 Shore Place 0131 476 6776 Tapa: Leith is an authentic Spanish Tapas experience set among white washed walls that make you feel at home in a Spanish style bodegas. Choose from a fantastic selection of freshly made dishes together with a fine wine list and then relax and enjoy the vibrant but casual atmosphere.

FISHERS IN LEITH

1 Shore 0131 554 5666 www.fishersrestaurants.co.uk/fishers-leith/ The original Fishers, nestled on the historic Shore. Fishers in Leith is still winning awards 20 years after it first opened. Two beautiful indoor dining areas or a summer terrace, the choice is yours while you enjoy the fabulous atmosphere along with their fantastic seafood selections.

OCEAN TERMINAL SHOPPING CENTRE

Ocean Drive 0131 555 8888 www.oceanterminal.com Ocean Terminal is a unique shopping experience at Edinburgh’s waterfront in Leith. With over 70 big brand and individual shops as well as Debenhams and Marks & Spencers Simply Food, the centre is regarded as a fabulous mix of relaxed shopping combined with a wide selection of bars, cafes and restaurants.

Leith

FINGAL

Alexandra Dock, Leith 0131 357 5000 www.fingal.co.uk Owned by the Trust that also owns the Royal Yacht, Fingal opened in January 2019 in the historic Port of Leith, a five-minute walk from The Royal Yacht Britannia. A former lighthouse tender, each of Fingal’s 23 luxury cabins are named after Stevenson lighthouses and are inspired by her rich maritime heritage. Hosting up to 60 guests, Fingal’s Ballroom features a raised gallery for music and entertainment with a moveable skylight. The Lighthouse Bar is a stylish yet relaxed setting for enjoying Afternoon Tea, cocktails or supper.

Main Menu

HEMINGWAYS 1 Commercial Street, Leith 0131 554 5272 www.hemingwaysedinburgh.co.uk Having opened in May 2019 Hemingsways is a relaxed, casual dining experience in the heart of Leith Harbour. With a modern twist on classic dishes, Hemingways offers a warm welcome with freshly prepared food and great cocktails, craft gin & locally brewed craft beer as well as an extensive wine list.

THE KITCHIN

78 Commercial Quay 0131 555 1755 www.thekitchin.com The Kitchin, owned and run by Tom and Michaela Kitchin offers diners modern British seasonal cuisine influenced by French cooking techniques. Awarded a Michelin Star in 2007, the restaurant constantly exceeds expectations with its appreciation of the best quality ingredients available from Scotland’s fantastic natural larder.

MIMI’S BAKE HOUSE

67 Shore 0131 555 5908 Mimi’s is a family run bakehouse located in the Shore area, specialising in fabulous cakes, fluffy scones and quality teas and coffee. They also serve breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, seven days a week. This is a perfect stop during your visit with lovely things to tempt you.

THE SHIP ON THE SHORE

PIZZA EXPRESS

24-26 The Shore 0131 555 0409 www.theshipontheshore.co.uk When the sun shines you can enjoy The Ship’s delicious seafood menu outside on the shorefront terrace beside the Water of Leith. When it doesn’t, enjoy the atmospheric, relaxed restaurant and bar that awaits you inside.

38 The Shore 0131 554 4332 www.pizzaexpress.com The creators of fabulous pizza. Choose from a rich variety of pizza, pasta and salad options made freshly using the finest ingredients and served to you in a beautifully relaxed and casual atmosphere. Perfect for families or a lunchtime stop while sightseeing.

TISO OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT

ROSELEAF BAR CAFÉ

41 Commercial Street 0131 554 9101 www.tiso.com Tiso is Scotland’s number one outdoor clothing and equipment specialist shop. Whatever you plan to do outdoors, visit Tiso and find a huge range of leading brands such as Berghaus, North Face, Icebreaker and many more housed in a spectacular outdoor retail centre.

23/24 Sandpoint 0131 476 5268 www.roseleaf.co.uk A cosy, family run, fun bar and café in the historic Port ‘o Leith. From the bar there are crisp pints and real ales as well as juices, leaf tea and great coffee. From the kitchen you can enjoy wholesome food from 10am right through until 10pm. A warm welcome awaits.

South Queensferry

South Queensferry ...

DALMENY HOUSE

Dalmeny House · South Queensferry · EH30 9TQ 0131 331 1888 www.roseberryestates.co.uk Dalmeny House was completed in 1817 and sits in rolling parkland to the West of Edinburgh.

With spectacular views overlooking the Firth of Forth, the house is home to The 7th Earl and Countess of Rosebery. Although very much a family home, the house is open to the public for viewings and corporate events. The inspired architecture of the house will fascinate some.

Others will be enticed by the extraordinary collection of antique furniture, artworks and curious objects.

CRAIGIES FARM

West Craigie Farm, West Craigie Farm, South Queensferry EH30 9AR 0131 319 1048 www.craigies.co.uk Craigies Shop was opened in 1988 with a onetable shop in a converted barn and added the Café in 2007. It has expanded over the years to offer an extensive Pick Your Own and Little Farmers, an adventure farm park for children and families opened in Summer 2021. From humble beginnings, Craigies Farm has grown to become one of the UK’s leading farm shop destinations and represents the very best in modern Scottish farming.

THE INCHCOLM INN

24–26 Hopetoun Rd, S. Queensferry, EH30 9RH 0131 319 2211 www.theinchcolminn.com The Inchcolm Inn, Pub & and dining room is located on the west side of the historic town of South Queensferry, between the road and rail bridges. Warm, cosy and welcoming, they serve up a menu of hearty Scottish fare alongside cold beers, wines and a cracking wee cocktail list. The perfect spot for you, your friends and family to rest your weary feet, quell your hunger and slake your thirst.

LOONY DOOK

The Loony (lunatic) Dook (Scottish word for swim or dip in the sea) is the New Year tradition of running into the baltic Firth of Forth on New Year’s Day. Hundreds of people sign up every year to take part - raising huge amounts of money in the process - and take part in a fancy dress parade before running en-masse into the sea. Yes it’s as bonkers, hilarious and joyous as it sounds

EDINBURGH BOAT CHARTERS

Port Edgar Marina, EH30 9SQ 0131 554 9401 www.edinburghboatcharters.com Edinburgh Boat Charters’ high specification luxury sailing catamaran is unique to the East Coast of Scotland and their deck saloon yacht is well placed to explore the best that the West Coast has to offer. Edinburgh Boat Charters sail in beautiful, historic and inspiring locations providing a bespoke experience to meet your needs.

South Queensferry

QUEENSFERRY MUSEUM

53 High Street, South Queensferry EH30 9HP 0131 331 5545 www.edinburghmuseums.co.uk Queensferry Museum showcases the past and traditions of historic Queensferry and neighbouring Dalmeny. The museum has stunning views out onto the Firth of Forth and the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Forth Bridge. Whether your interest is social history, folk traditions or civil engineering, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. As well as permanent displays, the museum hosts a room dedicated to temporary exhibitions, curated by community groups.

OUTLANDER AT HOPETOUN

Hopetoun House has become a prime location for the long running television series Outlander.

Here are a few notable examples of scenes filmed in the stately home and its grounds: Hopetoun Red Drawing Room * The House is the setting for the home of the Duke of Sandringham in Series 1. These scenes were filmed in the Red Drawing Room * The Sea Trail and West Lawn to the rear of the House was the location for the dual between the Duke and the head of the McDonald clan. * The rear steps of the house were the scene for a sword fight in Season 1 * The courtyard behind the Stables Tearoom features regularly as a Parisian street location in Series 2.

On the wider Hopetoun Estate is Midhope Castle which is the location for fictional Lallybroch, the family home of character Outlander principal character Jamie Fraser. Midhope Castle dates back to the 15th Century and although the exterior is relatively intact the castle is derelict inside. Tours can be arranged but must be booked ahead.

HOPETOUN HOUSE

South Queensferry, EH30 9RW 0131 331 2451 www.hopetoun.co.uk Hopetoun is a place of outstanding natural beauty, which has Scotland’s finest stately home at its heart. Situated on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Hopetoun is a welcoming and thriving 6,500 acre community with a great deal to offer for living, leisure, entertainment and business all the year round.

Hopetoun’s farming enterprise also produces Estate reared beef, lamb and poultry plus wild game sold directly through Hopetoun Farm Shop located on the Estate. The fabulous setting of built and rural heritage provides a unique day out and a magnificent location and venue for hospitality, weddings and outdoor activities including clay pigeon shooting.

Main Menu

Spooky Edinburgh

Edinburgh - some ghostly stories! E

dinburgh is a city of many moods and aspects. Its daily modern face is that of a bustling international city famed for its bright and trendy culture and creativity, a city where everything is possible and the future beckons.

But Edinburgh is also a city with a past, It is steeped in history and legend, of fables and legends set firmly in Scotland’s often bloody past.

And this history provides some of the most engrossing and entertaining tourist opportunites of any city in the world and there is no better time to enjoy them than at Hallowe’en when the veil is thin and ghosties and goulies are around every corner ...

Whether you take your chances in the haunted dungeons and underground alleyways of the od town, risk everything in Greyfriars Churchyard, learn about the spooky and terrifiying residents of Mary King’s Close, test your nerve in the subterranean passageways and chambers at Gilmerton Cove or discover the sinister side of Edinburgh’s Old Town, from villains to aristocracy and slums, prisons and execution sites Edinburgh will entrall you in her spooky majesty - but - be prepared to be afraid, very afraid!

THE EDINBURGH DUNGEON

MERCAT TOURS

31 Market Place, Edinburgh EH1 1DF 0131 240 1041 www.thedungeons.com/edinburgh The Edinburgh Dungeon is the ultimate underground journey through Edinburgh’s darkest history, using live actors, theatrical sets and thrilling rides. Full-on immersive 360 sets; Live actor shows from a professional cast; An underground journey through Scottish history; State of the art theming and special effects; Thrilling underground rides. The shows are laced with tongue in cheek, gallows humour typical of the Dungeon brand.

28 Blair Street, 0131 225 5445 www.mercattours.com Mercat tours will give you a true sense of Scotland’s past that no guidebook can give – whether haunted or historic. To make sure you can explore every nook and cranny of Edinburgh without missing any of the best sites or stories Mercat have a range of day or evening ghost & history tours covering the Old & New towns, above ground or exclusively, underground! And whether you choose one of our history or ghost tours, you’ll see a side to Scotland’s capital that most visitors miss.

REAL MARY KING’S CLOSE

THE CADIES & WITCHERY TOURS

High Street. EH1 1PG. www.realmarykingsclose.com Experience over 400 years of history right in the heart of the Royal Mile and discover the stories of your character guide. From myths and legends, to deadly plague epidemic, and famous royal visitor - there’s a myriad of tales just waiting to be told in this one hour guided journey.

84 West Bow, Victoria Street, EH21 2HH www.witcherytours.com The award-winning Cadies & Witchery Tours invite you to join our fearless phantoms for a suspenseful and mirth-filled tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Step back a few hundred years as Adam Lyal (deceased) and his spooky chums bring the Capital’s grisly past vividly to life. Established in 1984, the Cadies have been scaring people from all over the world almost every single night since, and our walking tours have become one of Edinburgh’s must-see attractions. If you would like a personalised experience, just contact us and tell us about it.

Spooky Edinburgh

CITY OF THE DEAD TOURS

0131 225 9044 www.cityofthedeadtours.com Black Hart Entertainment runs the world famous City of the Dead walks in Edinburgh featuring: The Haunted Graveyard Tour, Underground City of the Dead and Double Dead Tours. Their walks are written and researched by the historical author and award winning novelist, J A Henderson and their guides are a mixture of historians and professional entertainers. AND they have sole access to two of the worlds most haunted locations. Damnation Alley, a section of Edinburgh's legendary Underground City and The Covenanters Prison - lair of the infamous Mackenzie Poltergeist - the world's best documented supernatural case.

Main Menu

Edinburgh Map

EDINBURGH MAPS Edinburgh Charity launches new campaign with Butterfy Wings

Main Menu Royal Yacht Britannia

Newhaven Lighthouse

d sa

y R oad

St

g h al

t N Jc

m er

l Rd G re at

na r

d S t

Du

ke

Sa

la

St

alk hW

ch

d

Leith

Craigentinny Golf Club

S

Easter Rd

Rd

Lochend Park

d

St

dR

en

n

iel

Sleigh Drive

Lo

ee

af

Rd

Qu

Se

rig

Rd

York Pl

Lothian Road Royal Terrace Gds

St

al st

d

t

S das

Edinburgh Playhouse

er

Re

en

Dun National Portrait Gallery

nd

ace age Pl Hermit

ch

01

BONNINGTON

ma

Leith Links

Lo

B9

t nS to gh ou Br St ue ev ll Be

Rd

Leit

Row

Leith Victoria Swim Centre

St

ith

d nR to ing nn Bo

n

le Rd on ht oug Br

Ber

Trinity House Maritime Museum

tio nc

er

h

it

le

aig

Cr

St

LEITH

Ju

Inv

y Rd Ferr

ci al

Leith Citadel

rR d

C r ai

Co m

Con st itu tio nS t

L in

Newhaven

st e

Rd

© Downtown CityMaps 2019. Tel. 07743 989 089

Ea

Sta rba nk

www.twitter.com/downtowncitymaps

Ocean Terminal

RESTALRIG

Butterfly Wings, a song written by Debra Kirkness about three young girls with EB was released recently at a charity event at Prestonfields.

The song was released at the charity DEBRA's Sporting Legends Lunch, hosted by footballing legend Graeme Souness and was performed by Lauren Yule, four members of the Junior Ensemble, flautist Natalia Kurpanik and pianist Sabina Satrovaite.

The song will be at the heart of a new fundraising campaign being launched in time for Christmas by DEBRA. Graeme Souness said “It is a privilege to release ‘Butterfly Wings’ , available as a download on iTunes with all proceeds going to Music 4 U and DEBRA. EB is a devastating condition and we need to raise funds to invest in research and to support our community every day."

Meadowbank Shopping Park

Calton Hill

© Downtown CityMap Products 2021 - No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express permission of the publisher.

Every care has been taken in the preparation of this publication to ensure the accuracy of the content. However, neither the publisher or its distributors accept any responsibility whatsoever for any errors or omissions, or the consequences thereof. Offers contained within any advertisements printed in this guidebook are made solely and exclusively by the individual advertisers concerned. Any queries relating to individual advertiser’s messages or offers made therein must be directed to the individual advertiser concerned and not the publisher and/or distributors of this guide.

Latest Scottish Government Covid-19 Guidlines.

CLICK HERE

You can find 'Butterfly Wings', performed by Lauren Yule on iTunes, Spotify & Apple Music.

FRIENDLY SMALL

GROUP TOURS

Email: tours@rabbies.com Web: rabbies.com Tel: 0131 226 3133

COAST TO COAST WE SHOW YOU SCOTLAND! Explore, plan and book your next visit. Use our family of guides to find all the best places.

& the

ARGYLL ISLES IN AND AROUND

GUIDE

Your complete guide to Argyll, the Isles and the Clyde Sea Lochs area | Helensburgh | Cardross | Rosneath Peninsula | Arrochar | Ardlui | Inveraray | Oban | Argyll’s Secret Coast | West Highland Line | Dunoon I Tiree I

HELENSBURGH IN AND

AROUN

D

GUIDE

August 20 20

Your compl

ete guide to

Helensburg

| Helensbu rgh | Car | Ardlui | Inv dross | Dumbarton eraray | Ab | erfoyle | CalRosneath Peninsula | Arr lander | Loc h Katrine | ochar | Balloch | Bal Oban | Arg ma yll’s Secret ha | Loch Lomon d Coast | We st HighlandShores | Luss | Line |

h, the Clyd

e Sea Lochs

and Loch Lo

mond area

Downtown CityMaps & Guides www.downtowncitymaps.com Producers of the world’s first Augmented Reality powered visitor maps & guide

1-5 DAY HIGHLAND TOURS

0131 226 6066

www.timberbushtours.com

Glasgow

Why not visit Glasgow ...

A great day out!

G

lasgow is a great day out for all the family. As host city for so many great sporting and artistic events, the city continually showcases it’s new and vibrant identity.

It only takes a few hours in Glasgow to realise that you are experiencing one of the best places in Europe. The City Centre, Merchant City and West End are vibrant and filled with superb attractions, shopping and great places to eat and amazing entertainment venues.

Regardless of your budget. Glasgow is a must do experience during your stay.

Glasgow IN AND AROUND City Maps inside

November 2021

City Guide #LoveGlasgow

24 DRAUGHT BEERS

£8 LUNCH MENU : MON-FRI TIL 4PM

WEEKEND ENTERTAINMENT KIDS EAT FREE SUNDAY : ALL DEALS T&C’S APPLY :

BOOK NOW ON 0141 457 7100 30 BOTHWELL ST, GLASGOW, G2 6NU

Pure Buzzin' About Glasgow Podcast: COP26 in the spotlight Glasgow’s Mural Magic Virtual experiences to look before you go!

Explore Glasgow by bus, bike & walking

Your complete guide to Glasgow

We have declared!

CITY SIGHTSEEING BUS TOUR George Square. G1 3BJ T. 0141 204 4400 www.citysightseeingglasgow.co.uk Open top bus tours. The perfect way to see Glasgow. Tickets valid for two days. Hop on Hop off as often as you like with live or translated commentary available.

BUCHANAN ST

1 GEORGE SQ

GALLERY OF MODERN ART Royal Exchange Square. G1 3AH T. 0141 287 3050 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Glasgow is famous for the artists who have worked and studied here. GoMA collects and highlights the interests, influences and working methods artists from around the world share with those from Glasgow

BUCHANAN ST

1 GEORGE SQ

THE TALL SHIP 100 Pointhouse Place. G3 8RS T. 0141 357 3699 www.thetallship.com Glenlee – the only Clydebuilt windjammer still afloat in the UK. Fully restored to her former glory, a visit will take you back in time to experience life in the days of sail on the high seas.

PARTICK

12 RIVERSIDE MUSEUM

PEOPLE’S PALACE & WINTER GARDENS Glasgow Green. G40 1AT 0141 276 0788 www.glasgowlife.org.uk The People’s Palace is Glasgow’s social history museum charting the story of the people & city of Glasgow from 1750 to present day.

Enjoy historic artefacts telling this fabulous story.

5 GLASGOW GREEN

THE LIGHTHOUSE 11 Mitchell Lane G1 3NU 0141 276 5360 www.the lighthouse.co.uk Scotland’s centre for design and architecture houses permanent exhibitions including Foundation, a unique history of Glasgow, as well as design exhibition and The Lighthouse Shop.

Pacific Quay. G51 1EA. 0141 420 5000 www.glasgowsciencecentre.org Experience hundreds of fun hands on science exhibits, shows and challenges in an amazing building right on the banks of the River Clyde with fantastic views over the city skyline

11 GLASGOW SCIENCE CENTRE

KELVINGROVE ART GALLERY & MUSEUM

Argyle Street. G3 8AG 0141 276 9500 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum is one 7 ST VINCENT PL of Scotland’s most popular free attractions.

BUCHANAN ST It has 22 themed, state-of-the-art galleries MACKINTOSH AT THE WILLOW displaying an astonishing 8000 objects. The collections are extensive, wide ranging and 217 Sauchiehall Street. G2 3EX T. 0141 332 7696 www.willowtearoomstrust.org internationally significant.

16 KELVINGROVE KELVIN HALL Miss Cranston’s original Willow Tea Rooms were designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh GLASGOW CATHEDRAL in 1903. This iconic building together with Castle Street. G4 the famous tea rooms have been fully 0141 552 8198 restored and are open to the public again. www.glasgowcathedral.org.uk BUCHANAN ST The present Cathedral building was 19 GLASGOW SCHOOL OF ART consecrated in 1197. Since that same period the Cathedral has never been unroofed and THE HAMPDEN EXPERIENCE it has been a working church for more than Hanpden Park. G42 9BA 800 years. The cathedral has a regular and 0141 616 6139 active congregation and very visitor to the www.scottishfootballmuseum.org.uk city should make a visit.

See more than 2500 exhibits in 14 galleries, BUCHANAN ST walk among footballing legengs in the hall of 2 GLASGOW CATHEDRAL fame, and take the Stadium Tour.

TRAIN TO MOUNT FLORIDA FROM CENTRAL STATION

THE RIVERSIDE MUSEUM OF TRANSPORT

100 Pointhouse Place. G3 8RS T. 0141 287 2720 www.glasgowlife.org.uk A vast collection of Glasgow’s transport heritage assembled under one roof showcases the city’s important contribution to transportation through ship building, locomotive construction and car making.

PARTICK

12 RIVERSIDE MUSEUM

ST. MUNGO MUSEUM 2 Castle Street. G4 0RH 0141 276 1625 www.glasgowmuseums.com The award-winning St Mungo Museum, named after Glasgow’s patron saint, is home to inspiring displays of artefacts and stunning works of art exploring the importance of religion around the world.

BUCHANAN ST 2 GLASGOW CATHEDRAL

Glasgow

The best things to see and do in Glasgow

GLASGOW SCIENCE CENTRE

Glasgow Sightseeing

Take a tour with City Sightseeing

Glasgow Sightseeing

Glasgow 100 Stobcross Road, Glasgow, G3 8QQ T. 0141 212 1401 www.theclydeside.com Glasgow’s stills are flowing once again at The Clydeside Distillery. Discover how our craftsmen handcraft our whisky the timehonoured way. Experience the stunning views down the River Clyde from our picturesque Still House. See the fascinating history come to life on our Tours and learn about the heyday of Glasgow’s Queen’s Dock.

Unwind in our sumptuous Clydeside Café with platters and whisky flights. Browse our selection of rare and regional malts in our Whisky Shop.

PARTICK STATION

11A DISTILLERY

Glasgow Canal

THE CLYDESIDE DISTILLERY

GLASGOW WAKEPARK

G4 9XP T. 07415 787260 www.glasgowwakepark.com Come and try your hand at wakeboarding on the canal! Based at Pinkston Watersports, we offer a system 2.0 wakeboard park which allows the wakeboarder to ride continuously, turning at each end of the canal basin. To challenge you we have four obstacles in the water for trying out varying levels of tricks.

Whether you are trying wakeboarding for the first time or are perfecting your latest trick we offer the ideal environment in an urban location. We are open from March to October.

Bellahouston Park, Dumbreck Road, G41 5BW T. 0141 483 1600 www.houseforanartlover.co.uk Designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, House for an Art Lover provides an excellent cultural attraction and tourist destination, while also being one of the city’s finest wedding and events venues. The House is home to the popular Art Lovers Café, Gallery and Shop, and within the grounds you will also find the Studio Pavilion and Heritage Centre as well as a beautiful Walled Garden.

The Art Lover’s Café is open 10am until 4pm every day with morning bites from 10am, Lunch from noon and Afternoon Tea from 2pm.

House-for-an-Art-Lover @HouseArtLover @houseforanartlover

PINKSTON WATERSPORTS

THE LOADING BAY SKATEPARK

G4 9XE www.theloadingbayglasgow.com The Loading Bay is the latest addition to Glasgow’s new alternative urban sports playground. The impressive facility spans 30,000ft and incorporates a street plaza, 60ft long bowl, movable modular ramps and a training room with gymnastics flooring, trampolines, foam pits and a café.

G4 9XP T. 0141 332 5636 www.pinkston.co.uk Pinkston Watersports is a unique paddlesports centre with Scotland’s only artificial whitewater course. Come and visit us to take part in rafting, kayaking, canoeing or stand up paddleboarding. We welcome groups for corporate events, birthdays, community activities, stag and hen parties. You will find all these incredible pursuits in our urban setting.

Glasgow

HOUSE FOR AN ART LOVER

Glasgow

GLASGOW ICENTRE, VISIT SCOTLAND 156a/158 Buchanan Street, G1 2LL 0141 566 4083 www.visitscotland.com/info/ services/glasgow-icentre At the VisitScotland iHub you can make bookings for accommodation across Scotland, and journeys on Citylink buses or Calmac ferries. Visitors can also purchase tickets for the local sightseeing bus and trips to different destinations in Scotland, as well as various local and national attractions and events.

MAIA

21 Bath Street G2 1HW 0141 333 1356 www.maiagifts.co.uk Maia Gifts are specialists in Unique and Quirky Gift Ideas! They have gifts for just about every occasion and since opening in 2009 have become one of Glasgow’s favourite stores. Maia Gifts was awarded Best Independent Retailer in Glasgow. Trading ethically they do not stock animal products.

GLASGOW SUBWAY

R

The Glasgow Subway is an underground rapid transit line in Glasgow, Scotland. Opened on 14 December 1896, it is the third-oldest underground system in the world after the London Underground and the Budapest Metro.

It is also one of the very few railways in the world with a track running gauge of 4ft (1,219 mm). Formerly a cable railway, the Subway was later electrified, but its twin circular lines were never expanded.

CITY CHAMBERS George Square. G2 1DU 0141 287 2000 www.glasgow.gov.uk Glasgow City Chambers is one of the most important and prestigious buildings in the city.

It is an impressive symbol of Glasgow’s political strength and historical wealth. The interior boasts stunning architecture as well as beautiful ornate staircases and stairs.

SCOTLAND STREET SCHOOL MUSEUM 225 Scotland Street. G5 8QB 0141 287 0500 www.glasgowmuseums.com Scotland Street School is a must-see for fans of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and tells the story of education in Scotland from the late 19th century to the late 20th century.

Glasgow

Great Places to Eat in Glasgow SUGO PASTA

70 Mitchell Street. G1 3LX 0141 258 1650 www.sugopasta.co.uk Sugo Pasta in the heart of Glasgow’s city centre, is a bustling open space restaurant with over 200 seats where diners can watch chefs produce fresh pasta and cook in the open kitchen.

ST ENOCH

10 RADISSON BLU

LA LANTERNA 35 Hope Street G2 6AE : 0141 221 9160 www.lalanterna-glasgow.co.uk For over 40 years La Lanterna has been delighting customers old and new with its rich authentic Italian cuisine. Glasgow’s oldest family run Italian restaurant.

ST ENOCH

8 CENTRAL STATION

ICHIBAN

WAXY O’CONNORS

50 Queen Street. G1 3DS 0141 204 4200 www.ichiban.co.uk Glasgow’s original noodle restaurant serving Japanese dishes freshly prepared. Menu includes rice, noodle, soup dishes, sushi and bento boxes.

44 West George Street. G2 1DH 0141 354 5154 www.waxyoconnors.co.uk Centrally located, with 3 floors, 6 bars and 9 different areas, Waxy’s is unique. Waxy’s is home to live sport shown on big screens and fabulous food served all day.

1 GEORGE SQ.

BUCHANAN ST

BUCHANAN ST

1 GEORGE SQ.

THE RAVEN

BAVARIA BRAUHAUS

81-85 Renfield St. G2 1LP 0141 332 6151 www.theravenglasgow.com The Raven is a vibrant gastropub serving freshly slow smoked food prepared and smoked on the premises. There is a wide menu choice and a fantastic craft beers.

30 Bothwell Street. G2 6NU. 0141 457 7100 www.bavarianbrauhaus.com An authentic German Bierhalle. The ONLY place serving 24 German beers on tap together with a fantastic food menu. An Oompah band on Sats & dj Fri & Sat.

7 ST VINCENT PL

BUCHANAN ST

LA BONNE AUBERGE 161 West Nile Street G1 2RL 0141 352 8310. www.labonneauberge.co.uk At the heart of Glasgow’s Theatreland the city’s original Mediterranean Brasserie continues to thrive and the menus offer excellent value with tantalising cuisine.

BUCHANAN ST

21 R/Concert Hall

8 CENTRAL STATION

THE SPIRITUALIST

62 Miller Street, G1 1DT T. 0141 248 4165 www.thespiritualistglasgow.com All day contemporary cuisine and Scotland's greatest bar gantry offering an unrivalled selection of spirits, liqueurs, cocktails, wines and craft beers.

BUCHANAN ST

1 GEORGE SQ.

HARD ROCK CAFÉ

MASALA TWIST Hope Street. G2 3PS 0141 332 6002 www.masalatwistscotland.co.uk Authentic classic Indian cuisine with a Scottish twist. You can also enjoy rabbit or venison curry and pheasant tikka along with better known dishes.

BUCHANAN ST

ST ENOCH

23 Theatres

179 Buchanan Street. G1 2JZ 0141 353 8790 www.hardrock.com Hard Rock Glasgow has brought its classic rock themed experience to a welcoming audience. Enjoy classic Hard Rock burgers, cocktails and the amazing rock memorabilia on display.

BUCHANAN ST

1 GEORGE SQ.

Explore Glasgow

Explore Glasgow

by Bus ...

See Glasgow by bus the easy way...

Glasgow has so much to offer and we know you’ll be keen to see it all. That’s why we make it simple and convenient to get around. We accept contactless payments from UK debit and credit cards on all buses, and you can even buy tickets in advance from the First Bus App. Please note, we are only able to accept exact fares on board our buses, with no change given.

Buy your ticket on the First Bus App

Day City FirstDay Are you here for a day?

Buy a City FirstDay ticket.

Weekend City Flexi5, City Flexi10 Are you here for a weekend?

Buy a City Flexi ticket.

Unlimited journeys

£4.60 5 single journeys

£11

Week City FirstWeek Are you here for a week?

Buy a City FirstWeek ticket.

10 single journeys

£21

Unlimited journeys

£17

Top visitor attractions You don’t have to just pick one attraction to visit, you can visit them all. Our buses are frequent and direct, meaning you’ll spend less time getting there and more time enjoying them.

Explore Glasgow

Welcome to Glasgow, it’s a wonderful city, and we’re proud to be Glasgow’s biggest bus operator with services connecting you with popular attractions.

Travelling with First Bus around Greater Glasgow is easy. We offer a wide range of tickets to suit your needs, whether you’re visiting for a day, a weekend or a week. Many of our customers buy their bus tickets on the First Bus App. We still accept cash but we operate exact fare only and our drivers cannot give change. We hope you have a great time exploring Glasgow’s many attractions by bus.

How to use the bus

1. Before you travel Use the First Bus App to plan your journey, buy your ticket, track the bus to your local stop and even check how many seats are available on board as you wait.

Our Space Checker tool will inform you of the quietest times to travel.

2. At the bus stop Use the First Bus App to track where your bus is and the number of free seats available. Get your payment method ready – mTicket on the First Bus App, contactless card, concessionary pass or the exact fare. As the bus approaches put out your hand to signal that you’d like to board. When your bus arrives, please allow space for passengers to leave the bus before you step on board.

3. On board We encourage customers to make cashless payments to avoid cash handling.

Follow any social distancing guidelines.

We have increased our cleaning regime, customers can assist by not eating or drinking on board and removing any rubbish when they leave. When you’d like to disembark, just ring the bell and remain seated until the bus stops.

Explore Glasgow

HAMPDEN PARK

UNIVERSITY OF GLASGOW

WEST BREWERY

PEOPLE'S PALACE

Use services 4/4A, 5, 6, 7/7A, 31, 34/34A, 75, 90

Use services 2, 3, 4/4A, 6, 6A, 8, 77, 90 & M4

Use services 2, 18, 46, 60/60A, 61, 64, 65, 240, 255 & 263

Use services 2, 18, 46, 60/60A, 61, 64, 65, 240, 255 & 263

MACKINTOSH HOUSE & THE HUNTERIAN

THE LOVEABLE ROGUE

KELVINGROVE ART GALLERY & MUSEUM

Use services 2, 3, 8, 77, 90 & M4

ST MUNGO MUSEUM

Use services *2, *3, 4/4A, *6, *6A, 8, *77, 90, M4 (*short walk)

GALLERY OF MODERN ART

THE POT STILL

(GastroBar)

Use services *4/*4A, 6, 6A, *8, *90,* M4 (*short walk)

THE GLASGOW DISTILLERY CO.

Use all city services

TENNANTS WELLPARK BREWERY

GLASGOW GREEN

Use services 2, 18, 60/60A, 61, 64, 240, 255 & 263

POLLOCK HOUSE & COUNTY PARK

Use services 3, 34/34A & 57/57A

Live Capacity Tracking

Track where your bus is, how far it is from your stop and how many seats are free

DOWNLOAD THE FIRST BUS APP

Space Checker

Check your service for the busiest and quickest times to travel, so you can choose the best time to suit you.

Use services 19, 38/A/B/C/E, 57/57A, 41, 90, X3, X11, X85, X90

Use all city services

Use service 9A

Use services 41 & 90

Travel with confidence with the First Bus App. The App is designed to help you make your journey easier, with the App you can:

Buy the cheapest tickets, 24/7 View live bus times View the seating capacity of the next bus Plan your journey

Top Attractions Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum Services: 2, 3, 8, 77, 90, M4

Glasgow Cathedral, Provand’s Lordship & St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art

Services: 19, 38/A/B/C/E, 57/57A, 41, 90, X3, X11, X85, X90

The Burrell Collection, Pollok House & Pollok Country Park Services: 3, 34/34A, 57/57A, 59

Glasgow Botanic Gardens& Kibble Palace Services: *4/4A, 6, 6A, 8, 90 (*short walk)

People’s Palace

Services: 2, 18, 46, 60/60A, 61, 64, 65, 240, 255, 263

Services: 2, 3, 4/4A, 6, 6A, 8, 77, 90, M4

The Necropolis

Services: 19, 38/A/B/C/E, 57/57A, 41, 90, X3, X11, X85, X87

Tennents Wellpark Brewery Services: 41, 90

Ibrox Stadium Services: 9, 9A, 10, 90

Celtic Park Services: 2, 43, 60/60A, 61, 64, 240, 255

Looking for some out-of-town shopping destinations?

Silverburn Services: 3, X8, 10, 49, 57

House for an Art Lover & Bellahouston Park Services: 9/9A, 10, 34/34A, 59, 90

Holmwood House/ Linn Park

Services: 4/4A, 6, *75 (*short walk)

Thank you for travelling with First Bus.

University of Glasgow & Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery

Glasgow Fort

Services: 19, 38/38A, 46, 43, 60/60A

Braehead Shopping Centre & XSite Braehead Services: 9A, 77, 90

Main Menu

Explore Glasgow

Live bus tracker

Glasgow’s

Glasgow

GLASGOW MAPS City Centre West End East End

Southside

Loch Lomond

Rediscover Loch Lomond ...

W hy not take time this Autumn to reflect, reconnect and reawaken your senses with a visit to Loch Lomond.

It’s packed full of iconic landscapes, welcoming accommodation and cosy bars and restaurants – all only a short journey from Edinburgh but a world away from your day-to-day life.

Loch Lomond, The Trossachs and Clyde Sea Lochs offers adventures, rediscovery of nature’s beauty and the perfect backdrop to reflect on times past, reconnect with family and friends and reawaken your senses and love for life.

Whether it’s focussing on relationships, on your own wellbeing, or simply having fun and enjoying life, we’re here to help you do just that. Your ideal may be solitude on the top of Ben Lomond; fun and laughs while savouring good Scottish whisky around a roaring fire; pampering and luxury with friends; or outdoor family adventures; Loch Lomond has what you need to sooth your soul.

With stunning scenery, lots of things to see and do, accommodation to suit all budgets and taste, truly outstanding restaurants to savour, meals filled with laughter and love with family and friends, it’s all here for you and yours.

Home to Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, numerous lochs, including iconic Loch Lomond, and

beautiful scenery, it’s all only a short journey from Edinburgh and offers visitors the diversity and beauty of the Highlands, without the long journey.

Choose from the luxury and opulence of the newly re-opened Cameron House on the banks of Loch Lomond where you can enjoy golf, spa days, and stunning food courtesy of their Tamburrini and Wishart Restaurant, to the intimate, boutique Knockderry House, the modern and stylish Lodge on Loch Lomond in Luss, or the comfort, rustic charm and cosiness of the Oak Tree Inn in Balmaha.

If you are looking for self-catering accommodation to enjoy a short break, there is a great range to choose from including the stylish East Cambusmoon Cottages, family friendly Callander and Loch Lomond Holiday Parks and the beautiful Loch Lomond Waterfront Lodges.

As well as lochs and landscapes and a national park, there is also an aquarium, 5* visitor attraction Loch Lomond Shores with its unique mix of stores and leisure facilities, quaint towns and villages. A nature reserve, gin & whisky distilleries, loch cruises and water sports, and companies that can help you with all sorts of activities – from archery, 4x4 adventures to walking tours.To rediscover Loch Lomond, The and Clyde Sea Lochs simply visit our website

www.lovelochlomond.com

Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park ...

T

HE National Park encompasses around 720 sq miles (1,865 sq km) of some of the finest scenery in Scotland and is split into four distinct areas.

It is a place of contrasts, from rolling lowland landscapes in the south to high mountains in the north, and has many lochs and rivers, forests and woodlands.

It is also a living, working landscape which has been influenced by people for generations and is visited and enjoyed by many for its recreational value.

The National Park is an area of outstanding landscapes and diverse natural habitats – and the National Park team work hard to keep it that way.

From maintaining paths to planning major rural development projects, they make sure it’s a place that everyone can enjoy.

The new National Park Journey Planner is a pilot project to trial a way of providing all the potential travel options for visitors in one place to make it easier to research, plan and book your day trip. Try it and share your experience with us!

VISIT SCOTLAND INFORMATION CENTRE 01389 753533 www.visitscotland.com The Old Station Building, Balloch, G83 8LQ. Open all year providing a wide range of local information as well as leaflets, maps and timetables and helpful local knowledge.

Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond & Clyde ...

B

ALLOCH is the gateway to Loch Lomond and the truly stunning beauty that is the area around Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.

Getting here is easy. Balloch is less than forty minutes from Glasgow Airport and has good bus links as well as a regular, half hourly direct train service from Glasgow Queen Street Station.

Balloch is a thriving, bustling village where you can enjoy a great range of activities.

Visit Balloch Country Park, enjoy a loch cruise with frequent departures throughout the day or simply wander into the lovely shops and restaurants along the main street.

Take a short walk along to Loch Lomond Shores where you will find shopping, dining and family fun.

C

ardross is one of Helensburgh and Lomond’s hidden gems. Not immediatly obvious as a fruitful stopping place Cardross actually offers great value for time spent with a wealth of wonderful history and options for sport and great dining thrown in. Included in the package are the wonderful old parish church ruined by a stray bomb during the Clydebank Blitz,

O

VERLOOKING the River Clyde, the towns of Dumbarton and Clydebank were both noted for their shipbuilding – a story told at the Denny Ship Model Experiment Tank in Dumbarton.

Dumbarton’s shipbuilding heritage includes the building of the famous clipper ‘Cutty Sark’.

Dumbarton Castle on its fortified rock has long guarded the Clyde approaches. A ruined chapel in the grounds of Levengrove Park boasts the final resting place of part of the remains of Robert the Bruce whose home was once

nearby and the town also lays claim to the bard Robert Burns who was made Freeman of the Burgh.

the once magnificent brutalist St Peter’s Seminary and the wonderful medieval St Mahew’s Chapel which is still in use. On a less ecclesiastical note there is the beautifully situated Carman Trout Fishery, Cardross Golf Club, the National Trust for Scotland’s Geilston Gardens and the quaint Geilston Hall which is now thought to be an early C R Mackintosh design.

Loch Lomond

H

ELENSBURGH is approximately 20 miles north west of Glasgow. Sir James Colquhoun designed the town in 1780 and named it after his wife Helen.

commanding fine views over the estuary.

An elegant town, with streets laid out in a grid pattern many of which are tree-lined, the most notable ones with Japanese Cherry.

The original fly-wheel memorial can be seen on the east seafront esplanade. John Logie Baird, the inventor of television was born here, and a memorial to him can be found on the seafront.

Helensburgh has an outstanding collection of houses designed by famous architects including Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Leiper and Honeyman.

Mackintosh’s Hill House is the most well known and sits high above the Clyde

Other famous local connections include Henry Bell who pioneered the steamship “Comet”, whose maiden voyage was from Helensburgh to Greenock.

As well as being steeped in history and culture, Helensburgh is now rated as one of Scotlands best “Foodie” destinations where dining delights of all genres can be found in plentiful supply

Want to know more?

What’s On Loch Lomond Shores

Shop, Eat, Play ...

8

Loch Lomond Shores LOCH LOMOND BIRD OF PREY CENTRE 01389 729239 www.llbopc.co.uk For a unique experience visit the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre. Learn about the individual birds and stand six feet from a Golden Eagle!

Watch the birds training or flying and learn about conservation.

SWEENEY’S CRUISES

MARKET DAYS Market Day is on the first and third Sunday of each month, and alongside the superb products there are a range of great entertainment. Come along for a free family day out.

SEALIFE AQUARIUM 01389 721500 www.visitsealife.com Dive in and be wowed by the strange, beautiful and fascinating creatures of the deep as you journey through the amazing underwater world.

TREE ZONE AERIAL ADVENTURE COURSE www.treezone.co.uk High in the trees at Loch Lomond Shores, TreeZone is the ultimate Aerial Adventure Course ... Zip wires, balance beams, hanging platforms, tight-ropes, scramble nets, white knuckle bridges and gap jumps are set among ancient Caledonian Pines. This is an unforgettable high ropes activity for adults, kids, groups, families or for a corporate event.

LOCH LOMOND LEISURE Have been qoperating on Loch Lomond, at Luss Rowardennan and Loch lomond Shores, since 2001 and they offer activities for all ages and every occasion including: Luxury Speedboat Tours, Boat Hire and Boat Charter, Watersports, Outdoor Activities, Stag Parties, Hen Parties, Corporate Entertainment, Special Occasion Packages, Wedding Boats and Kids Parties as well as Speedboat Tours, Pedal Boat & Rowing Boat hire, Waterski, Wakeboard, Wake Surf, Kneeboard, Ringo & Banana Boat, Kayak, Stand Up Paddleboarding, SUP, Canoe & Katakanu.

Their bike hire service offers Adult, Children, Toddler, Child Seat, Tow-Attachment, and Trailer.

Due to Covid all activites have to be pre-booked at www.lochlomond-scotland.com

01389 752376 : www.sweeneyscruiseco.co.uk Enjoy a short scenic cruise departing from the dock in front of the main mall. Cruises operate daily throughout the Summer period. Find out more by checking the Sweeney’s website for full details of these all all their other Loch Lomond departures.

SHOPPING MALL STORES No trip to Loch Lomond shores is complete without a walk through The Mall to browse the offers and limited edition products available from boutique shops and big brand designer names. From independent stores selling designer jewellery and watches, handmade gifs, candles to shoes, outdoor clothing, equipment and sportswear, there’s something for everybody regardless of your budget!

Stores now open include: Frasers, Sports Direct, Catherine Kinloch by Pavers, Hawkshead, Loch Lomond News, Keep Sakes, Lachlan on the Shores, Leading Labels and Loch Lomond Jewellers. Full details on all stores at www. lochlomondshores.com