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Edinburgh — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 13:12:01 +0000

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Edinburgh in its Summer Glory

Edinburgh — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 05:50:23 +0000

Edinburgh in its Summer Glory

Edinburgh in its Summer Glory

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Home Page > Travel > Destinations > Edinburgh in its Summer Glory

Edinburgh in its Summer Glory

Posted: Jul 23, 2009 |Comments: 0
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Edinburgh is certainly a city to be enjoyed year-round. After all, it is home to countless museums, galleries and other cultural attractions, while hosting countless events throughout the year – one of the most famous being the Hogmanay street party in the winter. Yet the most renowned of Edinburgh’s attractions is undoubtedly the Edinburgh Festival – bringing hundreds of thousands of people to the city each August to experience an arguably unrivalled burst of culture and life.

If you’ve never experience the Edinburgh Festival before, there’s never been a better year to discover what it’s all about. If you have had the pleasure of attending the festivities in the past, now is the time to delve into its newest and most exciting offerings.

One thing to note about the Edinburgh Festival is that the event is actually a compilation of various different festivals: the International Festival, Fringe Festival, Edinburgh Book Festival, Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Jazz Festival and Edinburgh Mela. The big advantage, however, is that all of these festivals occur concurrently, or at about the same time, mostly in August. The city erupts with events, performances, entertainment and displays – all in the name of culture and the arts.

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This year’s International Festival includes the themes of the Enlightenment and Homecoming, with theatre, music, opera, dance and the visual arts coming together to create an extraordinary programme. The Fringe – the largest arts festival in the world – will also undoubtedly be one of the festival’s most popular events, staging some 2000 shows during August. Another of the largest celebrations of its kind, the Book Festival will host more than 700 events for booklovers of all ages, with many of the events celebrating Scotland’s rich literary heritage.

The Jazz and Blues Festival – running from 31 July to 9 August this year, will bring music to Edinburgh’s parks, concert halls and bars throughout the city, and will celebrate Jazz and Blues of all styles. The Edinburgh Mela – Scotland’s biggest intercultural festival – will offer visitors tastes from across the globe with ethnic food stalls, dance performances, live theatre shows and musical sets.

Finally, one of the most famous events at the Edinburgh Festival, as well as one of Scotland’s most iconic events – the Military Tattoo – will once again delight the countless visitors who set their eyes and ears upon the performance. Since the Tattoo’s beginning in 1950, more than 12 million people have experienced the event and more than 40 countries have been represented with an array of bands and displays – so it’s no wonder the Military Tattoo sells out each year!

August is the most exciting time to visit Edinburgh, although not the cheapest month to get an Edinburgh flight, having the chance to see such renowned events as the Edinburgh festival make the whole trip worthwhile.

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Disclaimer: The information contained within this article is the opinion of the author and is intended purely for information and interest purposes only. It should not be used to make any decisions or take any actions. Any links are included for information purposes only.

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Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/edinburgh-in-its-summer-glory-1062934.html

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Street Entertainer at the Fringe Edinburgh 14th August 2007. Taken on a digital camera. Please note I took this in portrait mode and have rotated it since. It looks slightly distorted ‘cos of this but I thought it was better than you all straining your necks and watching it sideways on!
Video Rating: 4 / 5

Accommodation during the Edinburgh Festival

Edinburgh — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 05:46:43 +0000

Accommodation during the Edinburgh Festival

Accommodation during the Edinburgh Festival

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Home Page > Travel > Hotels > Accommodation during the Edinburgh Festival

Accommodation during the Edinburgh Festival

Posted: Aug 16, 2010 |Comments: 0
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Accommodation in Edinburgh during the Festival can be a nightmare. Hotels book up months before despite the hiked up room charges, and even hostels are immune to the influx of travellers looking for a cheap, easy stay. This is why, increasingly, tourists are choosing to stay in self-serviced apartments in Edinburgh for the duration of their visit.

There are numerous advantages to staying in apartments over hostels and hotels. Although they may be more expensive than a hostel, apartments in Edinburgh work out much cheaper than hotels, especially if you’re staying for more than a couple of nights. Arrangements vary from company to company, but most apartment rentals operate on a minimum three night’s stay, with prices becoming more competitive and favourable the longer you want to stay.

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Apartments are also more flexible than hotels – and certainly hostels – in meeting with your demands. From disabilities to the number of people in your party, apartment rentals have a greater variety of accommodation to offer than a hotel and are willing to be more accommodating of your needs because they don’t have to worry about other guests or standard hotel protocol. Staying in an apartment also means you are not confined by hotel rules that dictate when meals will be served or bar opening hours, enabling you to choose the time of your meals and jaunts.

Edinburgh is a beautiful city, full of charm and quirks. Staying in an apartment in Edinburgh is a joy because of the unique character they contain. Whilst they all differ in size and location, each apartment is a beauty in its own right and reflects the wide variety of styles Edinburgh has seen emerge throughout its history; from the gothic spires and towers of Old Town to the neo-classical Georgian New Town.

Staying in an apartment also affords you more privacy and value. True you do not have someone to make your bed every day, but you are at leisure to do as you please and treat the apartment as your home. Apartments are often more spacious and more comfortable than hotels, and most come with a fully equipped kitchen, living room and Wi-Fi. Staying in an apartment in Edinburgh is a truly unique experience that will leave you with a sense of having truly lived like a local.

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My name is Xavi Smith and I love to write about the city of Edinburgh and Scotland. If you are also interested in tips about Edinburgh accommodation or Edinburgh apartments , don’t hesitate to get in contact.

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We are arriving on 6th of september 2010 please advcie tours for sightseeing and the cost, if possible any service apartment to stay

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Edinburgh Festival looks to be another amazing year

Edinburgh — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 05:44:01 +0000

Edinburgh Festival looks to be another amazing year

Edinburgh Festival looks to be another amazing year

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Home Page > Travel > Hotels > Edinburgh Festival looks to be another amazing year

Edinburgh Festival looks to be another amazing year

Posted: Jun 24, 2010 |Comments: 0
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As with every year the festival that takes over Edinburgh for a month during the summer, is looking to one of the best yet. It’s always said that each year is looking to be more interesting and have many more names behind the performances, but it is true that the festival offers something that no other summer city break holiday can offer.

Set in the superb surroundings of the historic city of Edinburgh, the festival draws in the cream of talent from comedy, music, film, theatre, dance… basically any type of art or entertainment you can think of! Even the street performers travel from miles around to display to a worldwide audience. Up and down the city’s famous Royal Mile the crowds gather to watch free concerts, bands and performers show their talents. Some of these shows are just tasters for the bigger performances to come later. Many other performers will take to the streets just to show off their small talents – maybe not enough to put on a show but definitely a great spectacle to see! Other craft producers and artists will set up shop for a month in Edinburgh to sell their goods to the international tourists on the lookout for a great bargain.

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Tourists flock from all over the world and arrange their holidays months in advance – usually just after they visited the festival the previous year. So, it is particularly important to look into your accommodation in advance to make sure that your Edinburgh hotel can offer you the best accommodation for your trip.

There are many Edinburgh hotels that offer a basic service during the festival period. However, you may wish to look out for Edinburgh Accommodation who are experienced in catering for people visiting the festival and have a location in the centre of town. Finding a good hotel in the centre of town will allow you to spend most of your day exploring the various tourist attractions as well as taking in the atmosphere that the festival provides around town. The city buzzes with the excitement that the festival provides and being in the centre of it all will provide a city break experience you will never forget.

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How many people go to festivals each year ?
I was babysitting kids age 1-3 in UK, I found a family I could work for in USA looking after 3 year old boy. I am 28 years old, could I apply for an aup air to go and work in USA?
Work outside the USA for 2 years. Prior, I worked. Am I eligible for unemployment insurance? I am currently looking for a job and going to school part time

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The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the biggest ever

Edinburgh — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 17:42:08 +0000

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the biggest ever

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the biggest ever

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Home Page > Arts & Entertainment > Visual Art > The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the biggest ever

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the biggest ever

Posted: Aug 07, 2009 |Comments: 0
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The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is set to be the biggest programme in its 63-year history and the organisers have attracted more performers and companies than ever before from over 60 countries – 34,265 performances of 2,098 shows in 265 venues. Last year there were 31,320 performances of 2,088 shows in 247 venues. It generates tens of millions for the Scottish economy.
This year comedy is accounting for a full third of the performers with big names including comedian and awards host Frank Skinner, Clive James, Denise Van Outen — and Alistair McGowan, who will be singing Noël Coward.
There will also be the usual mishmash of performing misfits who make Edinburgh’s streets such fun from August 7 to August 31. Among them is Dixie Longate, who is performing her one-woman hit show at The Pleasance, telling how she became the doyenne of Tupperware-selling. The Chippendales are performing a 21-night run of their male “erotic review”.
This year, comedy makes up a full third of the Fringe programme. Performers include Ricky Gervais, Stewart Lee, Jimmy Carr, Rhod Gilbert and Jason Byrne. The Stand Comedy Club, however, is presenting serious drama: a revival of Gregory Burke’s acclaimed debut The Gagarin Way.
Fittingly for Scotland’s Year of Homecoming, a quarter of Fringe shows are homegrown — a big increase on last year. They will include two Muriel Spark adaptations. A special Made in Scotland programme, funded by the Scottish Government’s Edinburgh Festivals Expo Fund, includes two shows by the Scottish Dance Theatre.
Musicals feature heavily and this year’s offerings include the new works Chomp: A Zombie Musical and The Great British Soap Opera.
There is also a rich selection of serious theatre including Palace of The End from the Royal Exchange Theatre Company, Manchester, and, from Balancing Act Productions, A Personal War, which recounts witness testimony of the Mumbai terrorist attacks.

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Holyrood Park

Edinburgh — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 23:50:25 +0000

Hollywood Park was originally called Queens Park as well as King Park. This beautiful park is a large area of park and rough hillside immediately to the south of the Palace space and new parliament, the former royal hunting ground of Hollywood Park is the one of Edinburgh’s space greatest assets and most well-kept secret, a 650 acres swathe of rock, Hill and more which brings a taste of howling wilderness to the centre of the city. The park was created in the 1500s and was originally enclosed by the Stonewall.

While old photographs of the park shows crop growing and sheep grazing, it is now most heavily used by walkers, joggers, cyclists and other outdoor enthusiasts. A single Park Road, the Queens Drive, loops to the park enabling many of his features to be seen by car.

Although you need to get out and stroll around to appreciate it fully. Falling Queens Drive in a clockwise direction from the palace gates you will arrive at St Margaret’s Loch, a 19th-century man-made pond above which the simple ruins of St Anthony’s Chapel.

Within the park you will find evidence of human settlements going back thousands of years including terraces, rings made by ancient farmers quarries used to construct Edinburgh Castle. From the chapel, road around the back of Arthur’s seat is one-way only for vehicle traffic. An interesting point about Arthur’s seat is that it is the highest point within Edinburgh. This road then ascends to the Dunscapie lock, tucked below the summit. If you’re on foot and feeling reasonably intrepid you can tackle the various parts that criss-crossed the park though decent walking shoes, waterproofing clothing, drinking water are recommended.

You are also able to pick up a map of suggested walks, as well as information on geology and floor of the park from Hollywood Park information centre.

Edinburgh Airport Parking is glad to help you get to HolyRood Park. Just enter your post code and we will get the shortest driving distance for you.

Holyrood Park is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Heavy Snow in Edinburgh forces Edinburgh Airport to close down

Edinburgh — Sat, 08 Jan 2011 21:46:39 +0000

Edinburgh airport is the busiest airport in Scotland this it is now facing the latest wave of winter weather. Last night 10 cm of snow fell over the capital shutting down the airport and most of the motorways. the Met office has warned the guy was going to be facing even more treacherous ice and heavy snowfall with a further 5 cm to be expected over the next coming hours.

It is our advice that before you travel to contact Edinburgh airport and make sure that your flights are actually scheduled. At any rate passengers are to expect delays are striking in their also advised to leave very early for the airport due to the adverse condition of the roads.this weather has caused several accidents or follow such as a car skidding on ice and tumbling down an embankment landing on the site. Councillors ordered extra gritters to combat this new flurry of extreme weather. Special gritters has also been employed in and around Edinburgh airport

severe weather warnings in regions of Lothian and Borders are also been forecasted by the Met office. Midnight snowfall expected to fall around 9 cm and 5 cm of snowfall expected during the day. The temperatures however would not rise over 3° but during the night the temperature will follow below -4. There is a severe weather warning out for icy roads drivers are being advised to look out for black ice.

Customers who have booked Edinburgh airport parking with us can be rest assured that their parking is still valid they need to call the operator (0871 360 2738) or the link given to them in the confirmation e-mail.

Heavy Snow in Edinburgh forces Edinburgh Airport to close down is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Royal Highland Show

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 24 Dec 2010 15:26:17 +0000

A Scottish food exhibition, pedigree livestock, flower show, show jumping, craft fair and much more you will enjoy at the Royal Highland Show, the fascinating highlight of Scotland’s country calendar.

Established in 1784, the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland held its first show at Queensberry House in Edinburgh’s Canongate. Around 1000 members and public attended that first event held on a site adjacent to today’s Scottish Parliament.

: Royal Highland Show

Following the inaugural event, the show became a fixture in Edinburgh and Glasgow before moving to Perth in 1829, thereby beginning the tradition of itinerant shows that was to last 130 years before the first “Highland” was held on the permanent site at Ingliston in 1960.

It is now internationally recognised as an annual celebration of Scottish farming, food and countryside, attracting an audience far beyond its farming roots – a showcase of all that’s good about Scotland, a special event you don’t have to miss.

The title Royal was bestowed at Inverness show in 1948 by King George VI, father of the current Patron, Her Majesty The Queen.

An Article by Edinburgh Airport Parking

Royal Highland Show is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Gilmerton Cove

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 24 Dec 2010 15:22:21 +0000

A series of chambers and passageways hewn from the bedrock sandstone that lie hidden beneath the streets of Gilmerton on the Southside of the City, an archaeological mystery that has baffled investigators for over 300 years, is waiting for you all over the year.

One of Edinburgh’s most intriguing and enigmatic sites, this splendid hand carved subterranean attraction has seven different rooms with rock hewn furniture tables and chairs, after extensive historical and archaeological research investigators still don’t know the exact origins of this site.

Gilmerton Cove

Once arrived at Gilmerton Cove, visit the secret chambers and passageways.

There are also a well, a fireplace, a blacksmiths forge and two back filled tunnels just waiting to be explored – theories abound as to its origins and uses. It was probably a secret drinking den or a covenanters refuge? Or maybe it is all about witches coven or secret meeting place? Hellfire Club or Knights Templar? 300 or 2000 years old? You will find more about all of these after an interesting guided tour.

An Article brought to you by Edinburgh Car Parking

Gilmerton Cove is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

St. Catherine’s Well

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 24 Dec 2010 15:16:12 +0000

The Balm-Well of St Catherine, situated within the grounds of St Katherine’s, a children’s home, is housed within a tiny, modern vaulted structure, which contains a probably unconnected door lintel dated 1563. The inside of the chamber is coated with bituminous matter from the well.

Queen Margaret is the first royal parsonage whose interest in the well is recorded. In 1504, James IV made an offering to “Sanct Katrine’s of the oly well”, and James IV in 1617 ordered that it should be built with stones, and steps made, for easier access. The stonework of the well was almost totally demolished by Cromwell’s soldiers in 1650.

St. Catherine's Well

On the surface of the water floats a black tarry substance because of which the well was famous for hundreds of years as a place of cure. This substance is derived from a minute spring exuding from the oil shale below.
It is believed that leprosy was one of the diseases treated at this well.

The well takes its name from St Catherine of Alexandria.

St. Catherine’s Well is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Scottish mining museum

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 24 Dec 2010 15:12:22 +0000

The Scottish Mining Museum, the national coal mining museum for Scotland, just nine miles away from Edinburgh, houses the story of coal and mining in Scotland. Very fascinating, it cares for the Lady Victoria Colliery and the national coal mining collections. The collections at the museum has over 60.000 items, including objects, archive material, photographs and books. There is also tools, safety equipment, lamps, models, clothing, trophies, geological specimens, banners and art.

The Museum hosts over 18.000 photographs in its archive, including underground scenes, surface images, aerial views of collieries, miners at work and play, gala days and village scenes. Nearly all of these photographs can be viewed on a touchscreen computer at the Museum.

Scottish mining museum

Books, journals, trade catalogues and periodicals covering the history of the coal mining industry you will all find at the library of the Scottish Mining Museum.

A tour of the museum includes a fully accessible, three-story visitors centre, two major exhibitions, a hands-on Operations Centre, the pithead, where generations of miners descended 500 metres down into the blackness of the ‘Lady Vic’, a re-created underground roadway and coalface, the largest winding engine in Scotland – which hauled men and coal up and down the pit shaft for nearly 90 years and is still in working order, two audio visual shows, Big Stuff – massive mining machinery tour, licensed restaurant with play and picnic area and a gift shop.

Scottish mining museum is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Hopetoun House

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 24 Dec 2010 15:08:09 +0000

Hopetoun House, situated 12 miles away from the centre of Edinburgh, is the perfect place for outdoor activities. With 6.500 acres of beautiful rolling countryside, Hopetoun House, “ the Scotland’s finest stately home”, offers its visitors many opportunities for a day out.

Hopetoun House

It is the perfect place for an afternoon’s shoot or for simulated game shooting. This is a very special experience and as close to a real day’s game shooting as possible with all the tradition and ceremony of a driven game shoot within the Hopetoun Home Beat. Hopetoun House is also great for a walking or for cycling. There are many routes suitable for cycling throughout the wider Estate including National Cycle Route 76 and the Union Canal towpath.

Enjoy admiring the stunning, original interiors of the House, take a relaxing walk in the magnificent parkland or indulge in an elegant traditional afternoon tea in the Adam Stables Tearoom. The spectacular setting of built and rural heritage offers everyone a special day out.

Hopetoun House and Grounds are now closed on a daily basis until Easter 2011.

Hopetoun House is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Seafari Adventures

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 18:33:21 +0000

For a great day out, you can choose fun and adventure with Seafari, that offers incredible trips on an 11-metre rigid inflatable boat. Seafari runs one-hour jaunts around the Forth from Newhaven; it also runs from Newhaven Harbour to Inchcolm, home to the 12th century Inchcolm Abbey; the company also launches from North Berwick.

You can also choose the boat trip alone to get astonished close-up views of the Seals and Puffins or choose the island landing trip, for a special picnic.

Seafari Adventures Forth use all weather some boats fully equipped with twin radios, sonar, radar and the latest colour map GPS system, the very latest in the design and technology of high speed rescue boats and the safest at this time.

If you choose to have a memorable trip with Seafari, you have to wear warm clothes such as a fleece. The company will provide waterproof trousers and cagoules. Most of all, the lifejackets must be worn at all times.

You must know that trips are unsuitable for persons with back problems or mobility difficulties.

Seafari Adventures is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

The Engine Shed

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 18:24:45 +0000

If you are looking for a vegetarian café, organic bakery, organic tofu production or just conference/catering facilities, you must go to the Engine Shed. Mains such as cashew nut pie and spinach bake are wholesome and hearty, the bread is delicious and there is a Saturday brunch menu. Most of all, there you will find a special atmosphere and great people as well.

The Engine Shed was established in 1989 as an innovative training project for people with learning disabilities to help them improve their confidence, learn transferable skills in a real work environment and move into paid employment within mainstream workplaces.

The building dates from 1830 and it was originally owned by British Rail. It was linked to the Innocent Railway line, which provided a great railway network throughout the Lothian’s, mainly transporting goods and, later on, people around the city and region. This was a building in the heart of a busy community with an important role to play. As it is now, otherwise.

The Engine Shed is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Portobello Swim Centre

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 18:17:10 +0000

With over 4.1 million customers a year, Portobello Swim Centre is the biggest and best sport & leisure provider in Edinburgh. It hosts a sports and leisure centres, swim centres, golf courses, tennis courts, bowling greens, outdoor football pitches and, recently, the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena.

Housed in a building that dates back to 1901, the old Portobello Baths have had a couple of improvements in their century-plus lifespan. In 1998 the great old pile transformed into the Portobello Swim Centre, adding new fitness facilities, a spectacular café and of course Turkish baths, where some days are designated as men – or women – only.

Portobello Swim Centre has one of the few original Victorian Turkish baths still in use in the UK. Used for centuries as a way of relaxing the body, the Turkish baths from Portobello Swim Centre hosts four rooms of varying temperature – the Tepidarium (warm), the Calidarium (hot), the Laconium (hottest), and the Frigidarium, where you can chill out afterwards. There you will find a cold plunge pool to refresh and invigorate.

Portobello Swim Centre is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Edinburgh College of Art

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 18:05:43 +0000

With a year-round programme of exhibitions by artists from all over the world, Edinburgh College of Art also hosts three key local events: the May fashion show, the June degree show, and the August Festival exhibition. Most attractive is the degree show, when the public can flood in and possibly buy something.

College of Art

Founded in 1907, but with a history dating back to the 18th century, Edinburgh College of Art is one of the most successful independent art colleges in Europe.

Edinburgh College of Art has a dynamic programme of events and exhibitions held throughout the year across the four constituent buildings of the College campus. These events and exhibitions showcase and support the work of its students, its staff and its notable alumni. The exhibitions programme also includes the work of visiting artists of local, national and international standing.

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Dovecot Studios

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 17:57:53 +0000

Dovecot Studios, one of the world’s leading contemporary tapestry studios and an international centre for tapestry as a modern art, sustain art, design and craftsmanship at the very highest level and across creative disciplines.

Founded in 1912 by the fourth Marquess of Bute, Dovecot is also home to Innovative Craft. Besides events hire and gallery rental, studio visits and guided tours, there is a also a programme of exhibitions and activities which run throughout the year.

The fourth Marquess of Bute created a tapestry studio in Corstorphine with the help of two craftsmen who had previously worked with William Morris. Around the turn of the millennium, the seventh Marquess of Bute no longer felt able to keep the studios. The studios were reborn in 2001 and in August 2008 Dovecot moved into its new home, the old Infirmary Street Baths. Opened in 1887, the Infirmary Street Baths were the product of Victorian public health improvements and they remained in use for more than a century. The old swimming pool has been converted into a beautiful weaving studio, complete with its own mezzanine viewing gallery (open one morning a month).

One of the more engaging Edinburgh galleries opened in last years, Dovecot Studios are worth seeing.

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Mary King’s Ghost Fest

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 14:05:56 +0000

The UK’s longest running ghost festival, Mary King’s Ghost Fest offers you memorable days of talks, bus tours, clairvoyant gatherings, ghost-hunts and vigils. If you adore ghosts stories and unexplained happenings, myths and mysteries, this is a spooky excursion into the paranormal, a time of scares, thrills but also of fun and joy.

Mary King's Ghost Fest

Event highlights include a scary PSYCHO(logical) night in Mary King’s Close, a ParanormalClash between Billy Roberts and Dr Ciaran O’Keeffe, a spooky trip on the Mercat Tours ‘Ghost Boat’ and fun and games for the family at various City of Edinburgh Museums. The favourite overnight vigils in some of the city’s most infamous scary locations is waiting for you, as well as the nights of mediumship and fascinating walking tours.

Mary King’s Ghost Fest will culminate in the Great Edinburgh Ghost Hunt, a first and a unique opportunity to investigate four of Edinburgh’s infamous locations in one day, as well as the chance to raise money for Radio Forth’s Cash for Kids.

Mary King’s Ghost Fest is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Ceilidh Culture

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 13:56:21 +0000

Ceilidh Culture is Edinburgh’s annual traditional arts festival, which takes place every Spring. It celebrates all aspects of the traditional arts from music and song to dance and storytelling, as well as interactive workshops and the odd exhibition.

The festival is a profile-raising festival for the traditional arts community under the banner ‘Ceilidh Culture’ and gives all involved an opportunity to publicise their events. It is also used as a way of making the traditional arts more accessible to a wider audience, many of whom may not normally have the opportunity to get involved.

The Edinburgh Folk Festival had a shadowy existence since 1951 when Hamish Henderson was involved in creating the first “People’s Festival”. In 1952 it ran for three weeks. In 1953 it was the further reduced and in 1954 People’s Festival was the last.

Ceilidh Culture

In 1964 there was an Edinburgh Folk Festival, and from 1983 to 1999 there was an annual Edinburgh Folk Festival with all the major Celtic music bands represented.

Financial problems caused its collapse in 1999, but in 2003 a new event, called Ceilidh Culture has taken its place.

Sustained by the local authority, this is a community-focused celebration of traditional Scottish music, dance, song and storytelling, city-wide over a period of nearly four weeks.

The dates for the next Ceilidh Culture are 25 March – 16 April 2011.

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The Talbot Rice Gallery

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 13:48:42 +0000

Part of the University of Edinburgh, in Scotland, the Talbot Rice Gallery was established in 1975. It is named after the Watson Gordon Professor of Fine Art at the University of Edinburgh from 1934–1972, David Talbot Rice, well-known for his writings on Islamic art.

The Gallery has three exhibition spaces: the White Gallery, with five main shows per year; the Georgian Gallery, with an interior designed by Playfair as a natural history museum, it houses a permanent exhibition of works from the Torrie Collection of Dutch & Italian Old Masters; and the Round Room, that shows small-scale exhibitions and experimental artwork.

The Talbot Rice Gallery

Notable recent artists to exhibit at the Gallery include, Jamie Shovlin, David Batchelor, Paula Rego, and Lucy McKenzie.

An impressive centre for art and ideas, the public art gallery of The University of Edinburgh, Talbot Rice Gallery shows original and relevant exhibitions within a unique historical context. The exhibitions exemplify creativity and ambition, seen through a distinctive programme of Scottish and International artists, with informed interpretation and lively educational events. The Gallery seeks to promote “knowledge, understanding and new ideas, realised through thematic exhibitions, events and publications.” The Gallery is open to the public and admission is free.

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St Cuthbert’s Church

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 13:40:41 +0000

The Parish Church of St Cuthbert, surrounded by its churchyard, is situated off Lothian Road in central Edinburgh, well below the level of Princes Street.

A chapel dedicated to St Cuthbert is first mentioned in the 8th century. It is believed a church has definitely stood on the same site as currently used since 850.

Edinburgh’s oldest building in terms of foundation, it has a steeple that dates to 1789. The church’s current incarnation was built as recently as 1894. Its kirkyard is the resting place of some notable names such as writer Thomas de Quincey, mathematician John Napier and the Reverend David Williamson.

The parish boundaries of the church were eccentric, encompassing outlying villages such as Stockbridge and Canongate (originally a separate burgh distinct from Edinburgh).

St Cuthbert's Church

By 1772 the kirk was dangerous, and in 1773 – 1775 the architect-builder James Weir of Tollcross built a preaching box with two tiers of galleries reached by stairs in the pedimented western projection.

Between 1789 and 1790 Alexander Stevens built the spire but in 1888 the church had become unsafe. Hippolyte Blanc was appointed then as architect.

With a pair of Baroque west towers flanking the domed apse, is best seen from the lower level of Princes Street Gardens.

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The Royal Museum

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 13:33:06 +0000

The Royal Museum, now a part of the National Museum of Scotland, on Chambers Street, in Edinburgh, hosts artifacts from around the world, encompassing geology, archaeology, natural history, science, technology and art. With its beautifully airy main hall, it also includes Ancient Egyptian exhibitions, one of Elton John’s extravagant suits, a suspended whale skeleton and the Millennium clock. There you will find a rocket, Dolly the sheep, interactive robots and energy transfer machines.

In 1861 begun the construction at the Royal Museum and in 1888 the original extent of the building was completed. It was designed by civil engineer Captain Francis Fowke of the Royal Engineers. The exterior is designed in a Venetian Renaissance style.

The Royal Museum

Initially, much of its collection came from the Museum of Edinburgh University. There is even a bridge connecting the museum to the University’s Old College building.

Numerous extensions to the back have extended the museum lately. In 1998 the Museum of Scotland opened, which is linked internally to the Royal Museum. In 2007 the two separate museums were then merged into one called The National Museum of Scotland.

The Royal Museum has free admission.

The Royal Museum is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

TimeTwisters

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 18:24:05 +0000

TimeTwisters, the most amazing Indoor Adventure Soft Play Centre for children is located at Sighthill on the West of Edinburgh.

With soft play zones, an award winning restaurant offering a wide range of excellent healthy meals, snacks and quality drinks and an unique themed Ancient Egyptian environment, TimeTwisters offers an unforgettable experience for both children and parents.

TimeTwisters

Children up to the age of 12 will find here fun, health and education. They are allowed to swing, slide, climb, crawl, run, clamber, jump, tumble or chase, just for a memorable funny day.

The whole soft play centre has been designed to provide the most fun and excitement for everyone arrives here. There are numerous soft play activities: sliding down deadly snakes, flying over the crocodile infested swamp, swinging across the dangerous snake pit, sliding down the swirling rapids, dodging the ancient mummies, crossing the treacherous rope bridges, crawling through the “underground” tunnels, discovering the Mummy’s Tomb.

TimeTwisters is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Trinity House

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 18:17:14 +0000

Trinity House was first built in 1555 as the Hospital for the Fraternity of Masters & Mariners of Leith. In 1816 it was completely rebuilt in classical Georgian style by Thomas Brown and nowadays it serves as a museum to Leith’s seafaring history.

The building has fine interiors, decorated with many scenes of the sea and the seafarer, including remarkable ceilings and black slate chimneypieces.

There are also treasures and curiosities collected by sailors across the centuries: the narwhal tusk used as a walking cane by Mr John Wood, who owned a fleet of whalers; the stained glass window that commemorates the merchant seamen of Leith who died in World War I.

Trinity House

A small bottle of water collected from the Sargasso Sea has also been preserved; the Sargasso was once a place of fear and mystery where many ships were lost in the seaweed-covered waters.

A collection of model ships includes a 68-gun warship made by a French prisoner in Edinburgh Castle in 1799.

Trinity House also hosts beautiful paintings, including David Scott’s vast illustration of Vasco de Gama passing the Cape of Good Hope.

The small port of Leith plays an important role in Scottish maritime history. In 1296, after the English captured Berwick, Leith became the principal port in Scotland. It remained so until the rise of Glasgow after 1707.

Trinity House is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

St Anthony’s Chapel

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 17:24:14 +0000

Built probably around the early half of the 15th Century, St Anthony’s Chapel is a beautiful feature of Holyrood Park in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Standing on a flat outcrop of rock, overlooking St Margaret’s Loch, it stirs the interest of everyone.

Built with local stone, in rectangular shape, the Chapel has now only the north wall.

St Anthony Chapel

St Anthony was born in 250AD and founded the first monastery in history. His relics were associated with cures for the painful skin disease, erysipelas, which was known as St Anthony’s Fire. This disease was a serious problem in Edinburgh in the 15th century and a hospital was established in Leith in 1430 for its treatment.

Another tradition says that the Chapel was founded for reasons connected with St Anthony’s Well, a spring which rises on the slopes immediately below the Chapel.

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Salisbury Crags

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 17:12:44 +0000

In the middle of Holyrood Park, there is The Salisbury Crags, a series of 46-metre (151 ft) cliffs.

Formed from steep dolerite and columnar basalt, the cliffs have a long history of rock climbing starting from the earliest days of the sport and leading to a number of traditional climbing and sport climbing routes.

In last years the park rangers (previously under the auspices of the Royal Estate and now Historic Scotland, who have taken over management of the park) have attempted to regulate access to the cliffs for climbing.

Salisbury Crags

The finest areas are in the two quarries. In the south quarry there is the Black Wall, a well-known bouldering testpiece in the Edinburgh climbing scene.

There is a large and steep talus slope falling to the floor of Holyrood Park with a track known as the Radical Road. This track was given its name after it was paved in the aftermath of the Radical War of 1820, using the labour of unemployed weavers from the west of Scotland at the suggestion of Walter Scott.

Salisbury Crags is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Holyrood Park

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 17:04:49 +0000

Located to the south-east of the Old Town, in central Edinburgh, Scotland, Holyrood Park is a royal park with fantastic hills, lochs, glens, ridges, basalt cliffs, and patches of whin (gorse).

Formerly a 12th-century royal hunting estate, the park was created in 1541 when James V had the ground “circulit about Arthurs Sett, Salisborie and Duddingston craggis” enclosed by a stone wall. There are three lochs: St Margaret’s Loch, Dunsapie Loch, and Duddingston Loch. St Anthony’s Chapel stands above St Margaret’s Loch. Queen’s Drive is the main route through the Park. St Margaret’s Well and St Anthony’s Well are both natural springs within the park.

: Holyrood Park

With a 650-acre (260 ha) area, it is a perfect place for a great day out, for the whole family. The park is rich in wildlife. Here you will find orchids and rock rose, fulmars and stonechats, squirrels and brown hare.

Thanks to its wildlife, archaeology and geology, the park is also a site of special scientific interest.

Parking is available near Holyrood Palace Broad Pavement, St Margaret’s Loch, Dunsapie Loch and Duddingston Loch. This Park is an easy drive from Edinburgh airport.

Holyrood Park is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

The Edinburgh Dungeon

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 19:04:17 +0000

Less than 100 metres from Waverley Station, there is Edinburgh Dungeon, the scariest attraction in Edinburgh, Scotland. Live actors, two hair-raising rides, shows and special effects transport you back to those black, sad times.

Edinburgh Dungeon

Once arrived here, enjoy the Judgement of Sinners and discover the instruments of the torturer’s dark art in the Torture Chamber. Face Sawney Bean and his frightening family of flesh eating cannibals in the Cave of Sawney Bean. If that is not enough for you, come face to face with notorious serial killers Mr Burke and Mr Hare, enter the Edinburgh Dungeon’s Haunted Labyrinth, a dark and terrifying maze of catacombs that stretches beneath the Royal Mile and discover the plague ridden streets, feel the unease around you as those left to die haunt the Mary King’s close.

Edinburgh Dungeon’s perfect mix of fact and fantasy guaranted a thrilling and captivating family day out. For those who love macabre, Edinburgh Dungeon is a real challenge under the earth.

The Edinburgh Dungeon is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Goos Pie House

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 18:35:32 +0000

Situated at the front facing Princes Street Gardens, in Edinburgh, Scotland, Goos Pie House was built around 1740 by the poet and wig-maker Allan Ramsay (1686-1758). The name Goose Pie House comes from its strange eight-sided shape, similar to a pie tin, that atract the visitors.

Around Goos Pie House, one of the oldest, there are more other houses built, named Ramsay Garden after the poet.

Goose Pie House

Ramsay Garden is a block of sixteen private apartment buildings in the Castlehill. Very interesting and fascinating, they stand out for their red ashlar and white harled exteriors. They are also well-known for their prominent position, most visible from Princes Street.

Started out as Ramsay Lodge, a block of Georgian “garden homes”, Ramsay Garden was developed into its current form between 1890 and 1893 by the biologist, botanist and urban planner Patrick Geddes.

Goos Pie House is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

The Police Centre Museum

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 17:38:15 +0000

A small, interesting museum that shows the history of Edinburgh’s policing. With free entry, Edinburgh Police Centre Museum is situated on the Royal Mile.

This museum offers a history of the scottish police force, including showing the old truncheons and pictures from old times right through to the modern equipment.

Police Centre Museum

There are an array of truncheons fanned out across the wall, dated crime leaflets and old walkie talkies. You will also discover here information on some of Edinburgh’s most notorious criminals such as Deacon Brodie and Burke & Hare.

At the Police Centre Museum there are some great artefacts including the famous skin purse made from human skin. The skin is from the hand of William Burke from the infamous murderers and grave robbers Burke and Hare. There is also the grizzly stories and more great things to see. A small but fascinating museum, with friendly staff.

The Police Centre Museum is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Grassmarket

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 16:55:49 +0000

Once an Edinburgh’s main markets for horse and cattle and also a setting for public executions, Grassmarket is now one of Edinburgh’s nightlife centers, with numerous restaurants and pubs, local retail shops and two large Apex Hotels.

The site of a market from 1477 to 1991, Grassmarket was always the focal point for the Old Town. It was also the main place for executions and over 100 hanged Covenanters are commemorated with a cross at the east end.

The two famous murderers Burke and Hare operated from a close off the west end. Around 1827 they lured at least 18 victims there, suffocated them and sold the bodies to Edinburgh’s medical schools.

Grassmarket

Another story is that of Maggie Dickson, a fishwife from Musselburgh who was hanged in the Grassmarket in 1728 for murdering her own baby. After the hanging, her body was taken back to Musselburgh in a coffin and on the way there she awoke. This was seen as a divine intervention and he was allowed to go free. On the Grassmarket there is now a pub named after Maggie.

Most buildings on the Grassmarket are Victorian but there are some from the early 18th century. There are also several modern buildings that unfortunately change the unity of the old streetscape.

Grassmarket is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Gladstone’s Land

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 16:49:33 +0000

Situated in the Old Town of the city of Edinburgh, Scotland, Gladstone’s Land is a popular tourist attraction. Very fascinating, this 17th-century merchant’s house is furnished and kept in its original style. On the ground floor you will discover a reconstructed shop booth displaying replicas of goods of the period. There is also a four-room apartment furnished as it might have been in the 17th century.

Built in 1550, this six storeys tall house was bought and redeveloped in 1617 by a prosperous Edinburgh merchant and burgess Thomas Gledstanes. Its siting (on the Royal Mile between Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyrood) mark out the affluence of its mercantile owner.

Condemned and scheduled for demolition in 1934, it was rescued and then restored and furnished by the National Trust for Scotland.

Gladstone’s Land

Nowadays, the restored premises offer a glimpse of 17th century life, with open fires, lack of running water, and period decoration and furniture.

The second floor of Gladstone’s Land hosts the National Trust’s Gladstone Gallery, rented out to artists through the year. It also serves as a venue for events during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Outside the entrance to the building is a hanging sign with the date 1617 and a gilt-copper hawk with outstretched wings. Although not original, the significance of this is that the name “Gledstone”. Derived from the Scots word “gled”, it means a hawk.

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John Knox House

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 16:47:07 +0000

The John Knox House, built from 1490 onwards, is Edinburgh’s oldest Royal Mile mansion.

Nowadays a museum, it has the reputed to have been owned and lived in by Protestant Reformer John Knox during the 16th century.

With a fine wooden gallery and hand-painted ceiling, it belonged to the Mossman family, Edinburgh goldsmiths who refashioned the crown of Scotland for James V. Over the next few centuries many decorations and paintings were added.

You will find here an interesting exhibition that shows the 15th century building’s beautiful craftsmanship and the stories of its famous inhabitants.

John Knox House

Since the mid -19th century, it has been known as “John Knox’s House”, at which time Victorian romantics sought to find sites of historic occurrences. John Knox is the reformer who founded the Scottish Presbyterian church.

In present day the house is owned by the Church of Scotland and is administered as part of the new, adjacent Scottish Storytelling Centre.

John Knox House is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Huntly House

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 16:41:05 +0000

Across from the Canongate Tolbooth, there is a typical 16th century house with the triple gables over the two lower stories and its plastered, wood – framed upper floors.

With a relatively simple design that suited its role as a secular, rather than an ecclesiastical, building, it functions nowadays as Edinburgh’s principal museum of local history.

The name of the house probably came from George 1st, Marquis of Huntly, who briefly stayed there in 1636.

Huntly House

The interior contains faithfully crafted reproductions of rooms inspired by the city’s traditional industries, including exhibits devoted to glass molding, pottery, wool processing, and cabinetry.

There are five mottos on the exterior wall, Latin inscriptions, four from the 16th century and one which was added when it was last restored in 1932. Because of these inscriptions the Huntly House was also known as ‘ The Speaking House’.

The Huntly House has free admission

Huntly House is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

Deep Sea World, for a great day out

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 15:57:43 +0000

Situated beneath the world famous Forth Rail Bridge at North Queensferry in Fife, 20 minute drive from Edinburgh, Deep Sea World is a great attraction for both adults and children.

There are a lot of interesting things to do and to see, once arrived here. Godzilla, an alligator snapping turtle with the strongest recorded bite on the planet, the sand Tiger shark, the largest shark to be displayed at Deep Sea World and that can grow up to three and a half meters in length, snapping turtles, the largest freshwater turtles in the world, all these will capture your attention for sure. There is also the bizarre-looking horned frog, originally from Africa.

Deep Sea World

Other attractions include the underwater tunnel. With 112 meters long and holding a million gallons of water, is one of the longest underwater tunnels in the world. The sharks swimming only inches overhead is simply unforgettable.

Face painting for the children, a coffee shop for parents or grandparents and a gift shop for everyone all these complete a memorable day at Deep Sea World.

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Reaching Edinburgh by car, train or bus

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 15:50:11 +0000

Edinburgh lies 46 miles east of Glasgow and 105 miles north of Newcastle-upon-Tyne in England. The M1 from London goes part of the way north, but entry into Edinburgh is via secondary roads: A68 or A7 from the southeast, A1 from the east, or A702 from the north. The A71 or A8 comes in from the west, A8 connecting with M8 just west of Edinburgh; A90 comes down from the north over the Forth Road Bridge.

Edinburgh is an 8 hours drive north of London. There is no express motorway that links London and Edinburgh.

InterCity trains, featuring restaurant, bar service and air-conditioning, link London with Edinburgh. Trains from London’s Kings Cross Station arrive in Edinburgh at Waverley Station. Trains depart London every hour or so.

The least expensive way to go from London to Edinburgh is by bus and the journey takes eight hours. Scottish CityLink coaches travel between London’s Victoria Coach Station and Edinburgh’s St. Andrew Square Bus Station, St. Andrew Square.

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Arriving in Edinburgh by plane

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 15:46:21 +0000

Edinburgh’s international airport lies 6 miles (10 km) west of the center city and it has frequent direct flights to Europe, Ireland and other parts of the United Kingdom. There are also a number of services to Africa, the Middle East and Asia.

Edinburgh is about an hour’s flying time from London, 393 miles south. You can reach Edinburgh from airports in Britain and Europe and connect to and from America.

If you want to travel from the United States to Edinburgh, you have to to fly to London, then take the train or bus north. The 4-hour London to Edinburgh rail trip takes only about an hour more than flying in actual travel time. Most of all, it is much less costly.

Edinburgh International Airport is close to the city. Car rentals are available at the airport, or from numerous businesses in town. At every 10 minutes, there is also a a double-decker Airlink bus that you can take to reach the city center, near Waverley Bridge, between the Old Town and the New Town.

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Edinburgh Playhouse

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 19:19:24 +0000

Initially used as a cinema for some 40 years, the Edinburgh Playhouse, situated on Greenside Place, was opened in 1929.

Designed as a variety theatre by Glasgow Architect John Fairweather, it is one of the most well-known theatres in Edinburgh, Scotland and the UK.

In 1973, because of a slump in cinema, the Edinburgh Playhouse was in real declin. It was saved from demolition by 15.000 signatures gathered during the ‘Save the Playhouse’ campaign. The Playhouse was granted listed building status in 1974 and a year later, the formation of the ‘Edinburgh Playhouse Society’ was effective in its campaign to transform this place into one of the most popular theatres in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Playhouse

Over the years, The Edinburgh Playhouse has hosted productions on the scale of ‘Les Miserables’ and ‘Riverdance’ and more recently, it played host to the age-old classic ‘ The King and I’, a box office success.

With a large array of productions and musicals as well as providing a venue to stage events for the Edinburgh International Festival every year, the Edinburgh Playhouse continues to have success as one of Britain’s leading theatres.

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North Edinburgh Arts Centre

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 19:14:24 +0000

Funded by the Scottish Arts Council National Lottery Fund and The City of Edinburgh Council, North Edinburgh Arts Centre was opened in 2002 as a new build arts centre in Edinburgh’s Muirhouse district. With a capacity of approximately 150, it houses small scale productions, dance, film and live music performances.

It is known as one of the most significant places in Edinburgh for entertainment, offering a great, unique environment for visitors.

The Centre is also a great resource for theatre and dance companies who use this state-of-the-art venue for the production of new material.

North Edinburgh Arts Centre

Multi arts activities held in its studio spaces, gallery, recording studio/live rooms are hosting in North Edinburgh Arts Centre. It offers a large range of modern facilities including a crèche and garden, workshop studios, galleries and a recording suite. The studio theatre is perfect for hosting corporate events and the café regularly stages live music session featuring local musicians and vocalists.

You can reach the Centre by public transport, from central Edinburgh with bus services 27, 32A, 37, 37A and 42 serving Muirhouse Shopping Centre adjacent to the venue. Free parking is available outside the library and shopping centre.

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The Kings Theatre

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 18:03:32 +0000

The King’s Theatre, in Edinburgh, Scotland, was opened to the public in 1906 with a performance of Cinderella. It was completed in 1905 by William Stewart Cruikshank.

With a capacity of 1350, this places is a classic representation of Edwardian elegance, featuring ornate interior surroundings and fine examples of stained glass above the foyers doors dating from the Edwardian period.

Originally, the theatre had four tiers – The Stalls, Dress Circle, Family Circle and Gallery Circle. Gallery Circle was removed in the 1950s as it was regarded as uncomfortable and unsafe for patrons.

The Kings Theatre

For almost a century, pantomimes have always been an integral part of this Edinburgh Theatre, appearing every Christmas Season.

The Kings Theatre became the theatre company headquarters were they famously held their AGM on Christmas Eve.

It is also one of the leading theatres in Edinburgh to showcase a rich stage musicals and amateur operatics, especially during the Edinburgh Festival season.

The King’s Theatre is well known for traditional variety theatre and has long sustained its strong pantomime traditions.

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Loch Ness Discovery Centre

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 17:46:53 +0000

At the Loch Ness Discovery Centre, in the Old Town, you will have the opportunity to find the truth behind Loch Ness and its world famous mythical creature, Nessie.

Situated on Old Parliament Square next to St Giles Cathedral, The Loch Ness Discovery Centre is Edinburgh’s newest visitor attraction.

Opened in 2005, you will find there an intriguing collection of displays and presentations devised by Adrian Shine, scientist and the foremost authority on Loch Ness.

Loch Ness Discovery Centre

With a series of photographs, recorded facts and figures, discover the real natural environment of Scotland’s world famous loch and examine the legend behind the elusive ‘Loch Ness Monster’. There are also over 1.000 eyewitness accounts of the legendary creature lurking in the tumultuous depths of this mile deep loch, the deepest in the country.

At the heart of the visitor experience is the 3D virtual tour of Loch Ness, running for 20 minutes.

Using a highly effective mix of lasers, digital projection and special effects Loch Ness 2000 charts the history of the monster by exploring Scotland’s geological past, its folklore and the various research projects carried out on the loch.

At the Loch Ness Discovery Centre you can also learn about Adrian Shrine’s landmark expeditions and discoveries as he unveils what could be below the surface of Loch Ness, having thoroughly researched the area for many decades using state-of-the-art technology and devices in the quest of finding the loch’s mythical legend.

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The Museum of Flight

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 17:34:12 +0000

In the village of East Fortune, East Lothian, not far from Edinburgh city, there is the Museum of Flight, very interesting and spectacular as well.

Once arrived here, you will find a large collection of aircraft includes high-ranking military planes and passenger aircraft. With a wide selection of planes on view ranging from the World Wars to present, the Concorde Experience, aircraft, engines, rockets, flying clothing, an archive collection, and much more, you will discover a great, unique world.

Concorde, at the Museum of Flight

There are four hangars, each of them with its special attractions. The cutting-edge designs used in naval and military aircraft can all be enjoyed in Hangar 1, where the museum’s military collection is on display. Hangars 2 and 3 have an impressive combination of passenger and pleasure aircraft. Outside Hanger 2 there is the Comet 4c, the world’s first passenger plane of the jet age. The museum’s special collection is in Hanger 3, where you can discover Scotland’s significant contribution to the world of aviation. No doubt, in Hanger 4 you will have a great surprise with the Concorde Experience. You can choose to step on board Concorde and walk in the footsteps of those high fliers and celebrities who flew on it until the retiring of the fleet in 1999.

Discover the fascination of flying at the Museum of Flight.

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The Scottish Parliament

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 17:58:46 +0000

In the Holyrood area of central Edinburgh, at the foot of the Royal Mile near to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, there is the Scottish Parliament. Constructed from a mixture of steel, oak, and granite, the complex building has been hailed as one of the most innovative designs in Britain today.

The building is divided into individual parts: Canongate Building, Debating Chamber, Dewar Room, Landscaping, Garden Lobby, Main Hall, Media Tower, MSP Building, Queensberry House, Tower Buildings.

The Scottish Parliament

Once arrived here, you can take a free guided tour, visit the Shop, enjoy the Café, admire Parliament exhibition in Main Hall, visit the Public Gallery of the Debating Chamber or temporary exhibitions. You can also learn about the history of the Scottish Parliament from the middle ages through to the Treaty of the Union, read about the first days of the new Scottish Parliament and the Parliament’s first First Minister, Donald Dewar.

Designed by Spanish Catalan architect Enric Miralles, some of the principal features of the complex include leaf-shaped buildings, a grass-roofed branch merging into adjacent parkland and gabion walls formed from the stones of previous buildings. Throughout the building there are many repeated motifs, such as shapes based on Raeburn’s Skating Minister. Crow-stepped gables and the upturned boat skylights of the Garden Lobby, complete this fascinating architecture. Queen Elizabeth II opened the new building on 9 October 2004.

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The National Library of Scotland

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 17:20:26 +0000

The National Library of Scotland, in Edinburgh, is one of the major research libraries in Europe. The headquarters is on George IV Bridge and there is also a more modern building in a residential area on the south side of the town centre, on Causewayside.

Scotland’s largest library, it houses 7 million books, 14 million printed items and over 2 million maps. It contains reading rooms, the Visitor Centre, exhibition and events areas, the enquiries and admissions desk and the shop.

In the National Library of Scotland there are rare historical documents, collections of international importance, books, manuscripts, maps, music (print and recordings), photographs, posters, postcards, newspapers, magazines, electronic journals, CD-ROMS and more!

The National Library of Scotland

Once arrived here, you will find copies of the Gutenberg Bible, the letter which Charles Darwin submitted with the manuscript of Origin of Species, the First Folio of Shakespeare and numerous journals and other publications.

The Library also holds many ancient family manuscripts including those of the Clan Sinclair, which date back as far as 1488.

The National Library of Scotland was established by Act of Parliament in 1925. Previously, Scotland’s national deposit library was the Advocates Library belonging to the Faculty of Advocates. This was opened in 1689 and gained national library status in the 1710.

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The Museum of Scotland

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 14:27:10 +0000

If you want to find more about the history, people and culture of Scotland then you have to pay a visit to the Museum of Scotland, in Edinburgh. Situated on the intersection of Chambers Street and George IV Bridge, it is part of National Museums Scotland.

The museum was opened in 1998 and the admission is free. There are incorporating collections from the National Museum of Antiquities of Scotland and Scottish items from the Royal Museum. Notable artifacts also include sculptures by Sir Eduardo Paolozzi, housing prehistoric jewellery, the Monymusk Reliquary, paintings by Margaret MacDonald, sculptures by Andy Goldsworthy, inspired by the work of Scottish geologist James Hutton.

The Museum of Scotland

From the very begining, the building’s architecture was controversial and Prince Charles resigned as patron of the museum, in protest at the lack of consultation over its design.

The museum is realised of geometric, Corbusian forms, but also has numerous references to Scotland, such as brochs and castellated, defensive, architecture. It is clad in golden Moray sandstone.

Part of the National Museum of Scotland is currently closed for a major redevelopment. It will be reopening in sumer 2011.

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Forth Road Bridge

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 14:20:53 +0000

The Forth Road Bridge, opened in 1964, is a suspension bridge in east central Scotland. It spans the Firth of Forth, connecting Edinburgh, at South Queensferry, to Fife, at North Queensferry. The bridge replaced a centuries-old ferry service to carry vehicular traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians across the Forth.

The first crossing was established in the 11th century by Margaret, queen consort of King Malcolm III, who founded a ferry service to transport religious pilgrims from Edinburgh to Dunfermline Abbey and St Andrews. For over eight hundred years, it remained an uninterrupted use as a passenger ferry.

In September 1958 work began and on 4 September 1964 the Forth Road Bridge was opened by Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh. Seven lives were lost during its construction.

Forth Road Bridge

The bridge’s central main span is 1.006 m (3.298 ft) long, its two side spans are each 408 m (1338 ft) long and the approach viaducts are 252 m (827 ft) on the north side and 438 m (1.437 ft) on the south side. At a total length of 2.512 m (8.242 ft) it was the longest suspension bridge span outside the United States and the fourth-largest span in the world at the time of its construction.

The bridge comprises 39.000 tonnes of steel and 115.000 cubic metres of concrete. Its width comprises a dual carriageway road with two lanes in each direction bounded by cycle/footpaths on each side.

The bridge carried around 2.5 million vehicles in its first year but the annual figure has risen over time to around 11.8 million vehicles in 2004.

On the 1 December, 2010, the bridge was closed for the first time due to heavy snow.

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Forth Bridge

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 14:14:47 +0000

The second longest cantilever bridge in the world, The Forth Bridge connects Edinburgh with Fife, leaving the Lothians at Dalmeny and arriving in Fife at North Queensferry. Opened on 4 March 1890, it is often called the Forth Rail Bridge or Forth Railway Bridge to distinguish it from the Forth Road Bridge.

The Forth Bridge is 2.5 km (1.5 miles) in length, and the double track is elevated 46 m (approx. 150 ft) above high tide. It is built from steel, the first major structure in Britain to be constructed of this material. More than 55.000 tons of steel were used, as well as 18,122 cubic metres of granite and over eight million rivets. Approximately 4.600 workers were employed in its construction; during this time, over 450 workers were injured and 98 lost their lives.

Forth Bridge

The bridge was opened by the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII, who drove home the last rivet, gold plated.

The Forth Bridge has a speed limit of 50 mph (80 km/h) for passenger trains and 20 mph (32 km/h) for freight trains.

Until 1917, when the Quebec Bridge was completed, it was the longest cantilever bridge in the world.

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The Scottish Tartans Museum

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 17:26:40 +0000

Located on Main Street in downtown Franklin, Edinburgh, the Scottish Tartans Museum has an interesting museum gallery as well as a large gift shop.

Founded in Scotland in 1963 by Scottish Tartans Society to “study the origins, history and development of tartans”, the museum explores the history of Scottish Highland clothing, specifically the development of tartan and the kilt.

There are kilts dating back to c. 1800, and tartan specimens c. 1725. Over 500 tartan samples are on display, including tartans for clans, families, districts, and other organizations.

Scottish Tartan

Once arrived here, you can also find about about the Scottish emigrants, discover their clan or family tartan and gain an appreciation for the richness of the traditions surrounding the Scottish National Dress.

Recently, the Scottish Tartans Museum was involved in the creation of a very special tartan designed in conjunction with the Papal Visit to Scotland on September 16, 2010.

Books, music, jewellery and more, including a full range of custom Highland Dress items to get you outfitted from head to toe, there are all at the gift shop.

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Mary Kings Close

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 17:11:56 +0000

For those who adore ghost stories and unexplained happenings, myths and mysteries, there is Mary King Close, in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Mary King’s Close is a range of closes and spaces that lie hidden beneath Edinburgh’s City Chambers.
For years, the hidden Closes of Old Town Edinburgh have been shrouded in myths and mysteries, with blood curdling tales of ghosts and murders, and of plague victims being walled up and left to die.
You have now the opportunities to hear these fascinating stories and to explore this underground site with a costumed character tour guide.

Mary Kings Close

Mary King was a prominent businesswoman in the 1630’s. At that time she was a widow and a mother of four, who traded in fabrics and sewed for a living. It was unusual for a close to be named after a woman at that time, indicating Mary’s standing in the town.
Edinburgh is built on a spine of rock and down the backbone of the Old Town, from the Castle to Holyrood, runs the slope of the Royal Mile. A series of lanes and alleyways grew out of this long street, falling away to either side. These are the ‘closes’ where Old Town folk made their residences.

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Travelling Gallery

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 16:12:16 +0000

The Travelling Gallery, a unique, custom-built mobile art gallery, is based at the City Art Centre in Edinburgh, supported by the City of Edinburgh Council Corporate Services Department.

Established by the Scottish Arts Council in 1978, it usually has two exhibitions per year for about four months at a time and is often in a different place each day.

The first vehicle was a converted double-decker bus and it was a huge success.

From schools to high streets, from community centres to shopping centres, from art centres to hospitals or colleges, the Travelling Gallery is all around, bringing joy and fun for everyone.

The programme gives audiences throughout Scotland the opportunity to experience exhibitions by internationally renowned Scottish artists as well as artists from around the world. It explores concepts and technologies which are representative of current trends in international, contemporary art.

Admission to all Travelling Gallery exhibitions is free.

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City Art Centre

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 13:25:39 +0000

With more than 4500 works that include paintings, watercolours, drawings, prints, photographs, sculpture and installation art dating from the 17th century to the present day, The City Art Centre, in Edinburgh, has one of the best collections of Scottish art in the country.

Situated near to the Waverley rail station in the city centre, The City Art Centre is an impressive nine storey former warehouse in the centre of Edinburgh. Originally constructed between 1899 and 1902, as part of the Scotsman newspaper buildings, it was converted to gallery use in 1980 and nowadays it houses light and airy exhibition galleries on six floors.

City Art Centre

There you will find new work from local or international artists or exhibitions from other countries, exhibitions of historic and modern photography, contemporary art and design, architecture, Egyptian and Roman objects and even artwork and costumes from the Star Wars films.

Over 300 works were donated in the early 1960s by the Scottish Modern Arts Association to the city, including key works by all the major Scottish artists from William McTaggart to Joan Eardley. The Glasgow Boys are represented by Henry, Hornel, Lavery and Crawhall, as are the Scottish Colourists – Fergusson, Peploe, Cadell and Hunter.

The Edinburgh School is represented by Gillies, Maxwell and Redpath, and post-war artists include Davie, Paolozzi, Blackadder and Bellany. Contemporary artists represented include Christine Borland, Rosalind Nashashibi and Toby Paterson.

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Queensferry Museum

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 11:07:30 +0000

The Forth Rail and Road Bridges, the ferry passage to Fife, local customs and traditions, local trade and industry. These and much more you can find at the Queensferry Museum, in Edinburgh.

Situated in South Queensferry on the banks of the Firth of Forth, The Queensferry Museum houses a wonderful collection of artefacts and curiosities, culture and development of this former Royal Burgh.

One of these is the full-scale sized Burry Man that is said to be an influential force in bringing good luck and prosperity to South Queensferry and its inhabitants; it is a local custom dating back from times immemorial. Covered in burrs derived from the burdock plant, The Burry Man is celebrated in early August, every year.

Another great collection is about pharmacy bottles, products and compounding and dispensing machinery used in old times; on each product you will find their medicinal qualities for alleviating and curing specific symptoms.

Queensferry Museum

There is also the Adjacent Forth Road Bridge, once the largest suspension bridge in Europe, opened in 1964. The bridge replaced the North to South Queensferry ferry service that served the two communities for 800 years.

Completed in 1890, the museum unveils the story of the trials and tribulations during its seven-year construction when fifty-eight people died and over one hundred seriously injured.

The building in which Queensferry Museum is now housed was originally the Viewforth Temperance Hotel, built in 1900. For part of World War Two, it was used as the Norwegian Naval Command (Port Edgar), and later became the Council Chambers of the Royal Burgh of Queensferry.

The Queensferry Museum is free of charge.

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Museum on the Mound

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 17:18:03 +0000

If you want to see a million pounds or Scotland’s oldest banknote, to build a model home or to try to crack a safe, if you just want to find more about history of Bank of Scotland, to explore how the Bank has changed and developed over 300 years, you are in the right place.

Situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s city centre, just 500 meters from Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street, there is the Museum on the Mound, opened in 2006. Art and design, technology, crime, trade and security, all feature in the story of money.

The Museum on the Mound

One of the Museum’s interesting displays is Scotland’s oldest surviving Banknote from 1716. This banknote was issued by the Bank of Scotland in 1716. Founded in 1695, Bank of Scotland produced its first banknotes the following year. It was the first successful paper currency to be launched by a commercial bank in Europe.

The Museum on the Mound is housed in the beautiful, purpose-built head office of the Bank of Scotland. Nowadays, the building also serves as the Scottish headquarters for Lloyds Banking Group.

The museum is open throughout the year and admission is free.

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The Georgian House

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 16:03:42 +0000

In Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, Scotland, there is the Georgian House, a stylish and pleasant place with a wide collection of beautiful china, furniture, art and shining silver.

Part of Robert Adam’s masterpiece of urban design, it dates from 1796, when those who could afford began to escape from the crowded Edinburgh’s Old Town to settle in the fashionable New Town.

The Georgian House

The house was built by John Lamont, chief of Clan Lamont. He lived here with his familiy until 1815 when he sold the house, and it passed through several prominent Scottish families until it passed to the National Trust for Scotland in 1966 upon the death of its last private owner, the 5th Marquess of Bute.

The Georgian House is now in the care of the National Trust for Scotland. Admission is free for members, for holders of the Edinburgh Pass and holders of the Great British Heritage Pass.

Visitors of the house can view a video presentation which explores the history of New Town and the living conditions of those who inhabited Georgian House. They also have a chance to see what life was like “below stairs”, with access to the restored kitchen, as well as the wine cellars and china closet.

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Arthur’s Seat

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 14:48:19 +0000

Excellent for a great walk, Arthur’s Seat is one of the seven hills of Edinburgh, a beautiful piece of highland landscape in the centre of the capital of Scotland. Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano and has this name since the 15th century.

About a mile to the east of Edinburgh Castle, it can be climbed from almost any direction. The easiest and most direct route is to park at Dunsapie Loch and approach the summit from the east along either of the two obvious paths starting at the car park.

You can also park near the Palace of Holyrood and follow the footpath to near St. Anthony’s Chapel (ruin) before heading up the well marked path to link with the paths coming from the east side of the hill (Dunsapie Loch). At this point several paths come together where a new path has been constructed. From there continue over the volcanic rock to the summit of Arthur’s Seat.

Arthur's Seat

The hill rises above the city to a height of 251 m (823 ft) and has a splendid panoramic views of the city.

Other tops around Arthur’s Seat include Whinny Hill, Crow Hill and Nether Hill. They also offer great alternative, quieter walking routes.

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St. Andrew’s House

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:06:55 +0000

An Art Deco-influenced building for civil servants, St Andrew’s House is the headquarters of the Scottish Government, in Edinburgh. Located to the east of Princes Street on Regent Road, it stands on the former site of Calton Jail. Nowadays, the turreted Governors’ House is all that remains of the former prison, next to Calton Cemetery and the obelisk.

The building was designed by Thomas S. Tait of Burnet, Tait and Lorne, architects, and the work began in November 1935. Completed in 1939, the building initially housed the Scottish Office, including the offices of the Secretary of State for Scotland. The requirement for the building arose as a result of a post World War I policy of limited transfer of devolved power to Scotland from London. The official opening on 12 October 1939 was “cancelled due to War”. It took place on 26 February 1940, by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth.

St. Andrew's House

St. Andrew’s House now accommodates part of the Scottish Government, including the office of the First Minister of Scotland and Deputy First Minister of Scotland and the Directorates of the Scottish Government dealing with justice and health matters. The building underwent a major refurbishment in 2001 and in present day it houses 1.400 civil servants.

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The National Monument

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 10:15:08 +0000

On the top of Calton Hill, to the east of Edinburgh’s New Town, there is The National Monument, inspired by the Parthenon from Athens. Uncompleted because of the lack of funds, it is Scotland’s memorial to those who died fighting for the United Kingdom in the Napoleonic Wars.

The National Monument, Edinburgh

The building was planned to have extensive catacombs in the area supporting the main structure, possibly to provide a burial place for significant figures. Sixteen months after the initial appeal, only a part of the money was gathered. The work began in 1826 and in 1929 the projected ended with funds running out. Local legend suggests that the city of Glasgow apparently offered to cover the costs but Edinburgh was too proud to accept the other city’s charity. The monument is often given the nickname Edinburgh’s Disgrace or Edinburgh’s Folly.

The National Monument can be seen both from Princes Street and silhouetted from the East such as Gosford Bay near Longniddry with the Castle framed between Calton Hill and Arthurs Seat.

The prominent Grecian columns of this and other buildings in Edinburgh has led to Edinburgh being described as the “Athens of the North”.

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Magdalen Chapel

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 15:35:40 +0000

In the Old City, under the shadow of George lV Bridge, there is Magdalen Chapel, the last Roman Catholic Chapel built in Edinburgh prior to the Reformation.

Built in 1541 by Michael McQuhane and his wife Janet Rhynd, its main features are the medieval stained glass roundels. There is also the panelling records gifts from members of the Incorporation of Hammermen. Until 1862, these were patrons of the chapel.

Michael Macquhane came to Edinburgh in the late 1400′s where he involved in the Trade and Craft Guilds of that time. On the other hand he became identified with the Incorporation of Hammermen. Unfortunately, he died before the chapel was finished and his wife remained to complete his works.

Magdalen Chapel

A little hospital or almshouse was also complete by 1547 for the housing of seven elderly men.

The chapel is now owned by the Scottish Reformation Society and serves as its headquarters.

The Scottish Reformation Society was founded in 1851. The original constitution of the Society set out its objectives as being “to resist the aggressions of Popery; to watch the designs and movements of its promoters and abettors; and to diffuse sound Scriptural teaching and information on the distinctive tenets of Protestantist and Popery”.

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Clan Tartan Centre

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:50:00 +0000

Only 5 minutes from the Royal Yacht Britannia, you will find a world of truly Scottish style, with a gorgeous selection of knitwear, tartan, gifts and souvenirs.

Tartan, particularly associated with Scotland, is a pattern consisting of criss-crossed horizontal and vertical bands in multiple colours. Originated in woven woll, until the middle of the nineteenth century the highland tartans were associated with regions or districts, rather than by any specific clan. After that, specific tartans became associated with Scottish clans or Scottish families, or simply institutions. On April 8, 1815, it began the naming and registration of official clan tartans.

Each clan has its own tartan patterns and members of the clan may wear kilts, plaids, sashes, ties, scarves, or other items of clothing made of the appropriate tartan as a badge of membership.

Black Watch tartan

Black Watch and Royal Stewart are now the most popular tartans. In present, tartan is no longer limited to textiles but is used on non-woven mediums, such as paper, plastics, packaging, and wall coverings.

Nowadays, tartan and “clan tartan” is an important part of a Scottish clan. Almost all Scottish clans have several tartans attributed to their name.

In Edinburgh, in the clan tartan centre you can find out if your name is linked to a Scottish clan, or tartan. Search its database of 50.000 names and take a printed clan certificate home with you.

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Calton Hill

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:43:27 +0000

Right in the centre of Edinburgh there is Calton Hill, a beautiful place for walking, resting and admiring the panoramic view of the city. Athenian acropolis, two observatories, Nelson’s Monument, you will find all these and much more on Calton Hill, that is easily accessed from a staircase at Regent Road on the South side, Royal Terrace on the North side.

Calton Hill

The acropolis, an unfinished monument – originally called the “National Monument”, was initiated in 1816, and it was meant to be a memorial to those who had died in the Napoleonic Wars. Building began in 1822, but funds ran dry and celebrated Edinburgh architect William Playfair only saw a facade of his building completed. Once named “Edinburgh’s shame”, nowadays is a a popular landmark.

There are also two observatories on Calton Hill: the Old Observatory, designed by New Town architect James Craig in 1792; and the City Observatory, built in 1818.

Also of interest is Nelson’s Monument, the British admiral who led his fleet to victory at Trafalgar in 1805.

On the last day of April, Calton Hill is the scene of the Beltane Fire Festival while in August it is a special place for Edinburgh festival shows.

With its volcanic rockbase, gorse-strewn hillface and windswept ruggedness, it remains a rough gem.

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Corstorphine Hill

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:38:38 +0000

Edinburgh’s largest public woodland, Corstorphine Hill is perfect for spending a great day out. It is a long ridge shaped hill, mostly forested (“Corstorphine Woods”) with broad leaves, and has extensive development on its south side, including Edinburgh Zoo.

This public park and nature reserve to the West of Edinburgh, on the road to Glasgow is often considered one of Edinburgh’s “Seven Hills”, There you will find a great place to ramble with its mix of mature, broad-leaved woodland – in particular, elm and sycamore – and odd rock formations that jut out of the ground here and there. As well as being, its lower slopes are covered in gorse bush and grass lawn.

Corstorphine Hill

Wildlife found at Corstorphine Hill includes great spotted woodpecker, tawny owl, badger, kestrel and sparrowhawk.

At the top of the summit is the Scott Tower or the Corstorphine Hill Tower, a memorial to Edinburgh romantic novelist Walter Scott.

There is also a walled garden where, since 2001, local volunteer group “friends of Corstorphine Hill” have been creating a quiet space.

There is some evidence of ancient settlement here, possibly a hillfort of some kind. Cup marks have been found on the hill.

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Bruntsfield Links

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 14:31:11 +0000

One of the oldest golf clubs in the world, Bruntsfield Links is 35 acres (14 ha) of park in Bruntsfield, Edinburgh, immediately to the south-west of The Meadows. Founded in 1761, Bruntsfield Links, the last vestige of the Burgh Muir, formerly woodland, has hosted over the time a number of major championships.

It doesn’t know, for sure, when golf was first played in Edinburgh, however, the first edict prohibiting the playing of the game was issued in 1457. Additionally, the Golf Tavern which adjoins the links claims to have been founded in 1456, though there is little evidence for this.

In the mid 19th century, golf became an increasingly popular game, thanks to the arrival of the cheaper guttie ball. The result was that the links, which were opened to the general public, became very crowded. “Links”, is a Scottish word widely associated with land used for the game of golf.

The clubhouse from Bruntsfield offers fine views over the course. Both the members’ lounge, with its unique curved window offering a panoramic outlook, and the more informal visitors’ lounge provide a comfortable environment. Bruntsfield is also best known for the quality of lunch, which is served daily in the upstairs dining room.

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Dean Village

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 19:25:03 +0000

An 800 year old milling town on the Water of Leith is situated just a few minutes walk from New Town’s Charlotte Square, at 100 feet below the rest of the city. Dean Village is quite unique and particularly tranquil considering it is in the heart of Scotland’s Capital.

Dean Village

You will find here a variety of architecture from the robust warehouses and mill buildings, the red sandstone cottage-style buildings to the more modern tenements of English influence.

Once known as the “Water of Leith Village”, it was a successful grain milling hamlet for more than 800 years. At one time, there were eleven working mills there, driven by the currents of the Water of Leith. In 1833 was opened the four-arched Dean Bridge, designed by Thomas Telford and 106 feet above the water level. Unfortunately, here, on the bridge, suicides were very common in the 19th century. At the end of the bridge there is the Holy Trinity Church.

Dean Cemetery, that stands on the site of Dean House, is one of the few in Scotland run as a non-profit making charity trust. Sculptured stones from the house are incorporated into the terrace wall on the edge of the cemetery. A painted ceiling from Dean House is now in the National Museum of Antiquities.

In time, Dean Village’s trade diminished and the village became associated with decay and poverty for many years. It reached a low-point by around 1960 but from the mid 1970s onwards it became recognised as a tranquil oasis close to the city centre. Redevelopment and restoration began, converting workers’ cottages, warehouses and mill buildings. The area has now become a desirable residential area.

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The Elephant House Gourmet Tea & Coffee House

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 18:19:29 +0000

One of the best tea and coffee houses in Edinburgh, The Elephant House Gourmet Tea & Coffee House also hosts an impressive collection of over 600 elephants of all shapes and sizes, many of which are for sale.

Opened in 1995, it has a large selection of teas and coffees, wines, draught and bottled beers and a tasty selection of cakes, tray-bakes and main dishes as well.

The Elephant House

From 8.00 am till 11.00 pm every day, seven days a week, The Elephant House serves Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

The Elephant House offers three classic straight coffees. It also serves a historically famous blend and a different speciality coffee every week.

This tea and coffee house became famous as the place of inspiration to writers such as J.K. Rowling, who sat writing much of her early novels in the back room overlooking Edinburgh Castle. Ian Rankin, author of the bestselling Rebus novels, and Alexander McCall-Smith, author of The No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency and other series of novels, have also frequented The Elephant House, as well as many others throughout the years.

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St. Mary’s Cathedral

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 17:28:46 +0000

St Mary’s Cathedral or the Cathedral Church of Saint Mary the Virgin is a cathedral of the Scottish Episcopal Church in Edinburgh.

It was designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott and the foundation stone was laid on May 21, 1874 by the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry. A bottle containing a copy of the Trust Deed, the Edinburgh Post Office Directory, Oliver and Boyd’s Almanac, newspapers and coins were placed inside the stone. On January 25, 1879 was opened the nave of the cathedral from that day, daily services have been held here. In the same year, The Father Henry Willis organ was built.

St Mary's Cathedral

St Mary’s Cathedral is the only cathedral in Scotland to maintain a tradition of daily choral services with choristers drawn from its own choir school. It was the first cathedral in Britain to employ girls in the treble line as well as boys, in 1978 when Dennis Townhill was organist and choir master. In 2005 St Mary’s Cathedral became the first cathedral in the Anglican tradition to have a female alto singing in daily services.

There are ten original bells in the central tower of the Cathedral hung for change ringing, with two further bells being added recently. They were the gift of the first Dean of St Mary’s, James F Montgomery.

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Greyfriars Kirkyard

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 16:00:28 +0000

Greyfriars is one of Edinburgh’s most famous kirkyards (cemetery), an interesting mix of legends, history and stories of famous and ordinary people alike.

Two of these stories are about Greyfriars Bobby and the ‘Bloody Mackenzie’ as well.

The Skye terrier was a faithful dog who refused to leave the grave of his master, John Gray, a farmer from Midlothian, upon his death and for 13 years he watched over the grave. Bobby never spent a night away from his master’s grave even in the most dismal weather conditions. The story of Greyfriars Bobby became one of Edinburgh’s unique stories. When Bobby died, he was buried in Greyfriars and a bronze statue was sculpted for the small dog.

Greyfriars Kirkyard

While Greyfriars is home to the cute Greyfriars Bobby, it is also said to be home to one of the most documented cases of poltergeists and paranormal activities in Scotland. Ironically, George MacKenzie, a lord advocate who enthusiastically imprisoned many Covenanters, is buried in a vault just outside the Covenanters Prison in Greyfriars Kirkyard. His vault was disturbed when it was broken into and the MacKenzie Poltergeist is said to haunt the cemetery restlessly.

Although in the night it is reputedly haunted, during the day Greyfriars is one of the most peaceful places in Edinburgh. Located at the southern edge of the Old Town, adjacent to George Heriot’s School, Greyfriars Kirkyard is the resting place of many famous Edinburgh characters. Many of the graves are very old, dating back to the 13th century and many of the engravings are written in Latin. Notable monuments include the Martyr’s Monument, which remembers executed Covenanters and the Italianate monument to Sir George Mackenzie.

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Charlotte Square

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 15:48:53 +0000

Charlotte Square, right in the heart of Edinburgh’s City Centre, at the west end of George Street, is perfect for a great walking around.

Initially named St. George’s Square, it was renamed before completion after King George III’s Queen and first daughter, to avoid confusion with George Square, in the south of the city. Charlotte Square was the last part of the initial phase of the New Town to be completed in 1820.

Charlotte Square

A beautiful piece of architecture by Robert Adam, it houses many items of interest.

The National Trust for Scotland headquarters, on the south side of the square, has a cafe with garden, book and souvenir shop.

The Georgian House, a Georgian residence, is now opened for visitors. Each of the five main rooms of the house can be visited.

West Register House, the most impressive building in Charlotte Square, designed by Robert Reid in 1811, broadly to Adam’s plan, was originally a church with a dome modelled after St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. The church opened in 1814 and in the 1964 the building became the West Register House.

The memorial in the centre of the garden commemorates Prince Albert, the consort of Queen Victoria. There is an equestrian statue of the prince, in field marshal’s uniform.

Every year, in August, Charlotte Square garden houses the Edinburgh International Book Festival.

The central open space is a private garden, available to owners of the surrounding properties.

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Rosslyn Chapel

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 16:58:57 +0000

Rosslyn Chapel, a 15th century church in the village of Roslin, on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Scotland, was founded as a Roman Catholic collegiate church by William Sinclair, 1st Earl of Caithness. Its architecture is considered to be some of the finest in Scotland.

Construction of the chapel began on 20 September 1456. It stands on fourteen pillars, which form an arcade of twelve pointed arches on three sides of the nave. At the east end, a fourteenth pillar between the penultimate pair form a three-pillared division between the nave and the Lady Chapel. The three pillars at the east end of the chapel are named, from north to south: the Master Pillar, the Journeyman Pillar, and most famously, the Apprentice Pillar.

Rosslyn Chapel

Once arrived here, you can learn about the fascinating history of Rosslyn Chapel, count how many of 110 Green Men carvings there are, find the date the Chapel was founded, inscribed up high on the outside walls, see if you can find Robert the Bruce’s death mask, the most difficult carving to spot in the Chapel.

Otherwise, The Chapel is a major feature in the last part of Dan Brown’s 2003 novel The Da Vinci Code, although much of the structure’s description is fictionalised.

You can reach the chapel by the hourly 15A bus which can be boarded at St. Andrew’s Square or Princes Street.

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Our Dynamic Earth

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 15:00:49 +0000

Dramatic special effects, stunning imagery and state-of-the-art interactive displays that take you from the very beginning of the time to our unknown future. All these you will find at Our Dynamic Earth, one of Edinburgh’s “must see” attractions, a great journey of discovery. Located at the bottom of Holyrood Road, neighbouring the Scottish Parliament and the Palace of Holyrood House, it is an approximative 15 minutes walk from the city centre.

Our Dynamic Earth

Whether coming face to face with an extinct dinosaur, feeling the sticky heat of a tropical rainforest or flying over glaciers in prehistoric Scotland, Dynamic Earth presents all aspects of the planet we live in, with interactive exhibits and impressive technology, including a 4D and 3D experience. Beginning with the Big Bang, you can witness the creation of the Earth, follow the planet through its evolution and even catch glimpses of its future.

You can reach the FutureDome to investigate just what the future of our planet might be, and how we as humans can make a difference in what lies ahead for our dynamic planet.

At Dynamic Earth there is also the Natural Selection Gift Shop, Food Chain Cafe and Ocean Commotion Soft Play Area.

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The Cadies & Witchery Tours

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 14:08:45 +0000

If you love ghost stories, you have to try The Cadies and Witchery Tours, one of Edinburgh’s must-see attractions.

From 1984, there are light-hearted ghostly walking tours around the old town of Edinburgh. There are two evening tours: The Witchery Murder and Mystery Tour that lasts 75 minutes and the Witchery Ghost and Gore Tour that lasts 90 minutes. Both of them are outdoor walking tours visiting the closes and alleyways in the Old Town of Edinburgh. The Witchery Murder & Mystery Tour operates all year, apart from 24-26 December, while The Witchery Ghosts & Gore Tour runs from May through to early September.

The Cadies & Witchery Tours

You’re led around the Old Town of Edinburgh by a deceased tour guide who reveals various ghoulish tales. On route you will meet “jumper-ooters”, costumed characters employed to appear at inopportune times in an attempt to surprise you.

The Witchery Tours take a light-hearted look at Edinburgh’s darker side including tales of witchcraft, plague and torture. The tour information is gathered from city records, library documents and historical archives.

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Craigmillar Castle

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 11:41:35 +0000

One of the oldest tower house from Scotland, dark and mysterious chambers, beautiful gardens, all these and more than that you will find at Craigmillar Castle, in Edinburgh, Scotland. Projected as a simple tower-house residence, Craigmillar is nowadays one of Scotland’s most perfectly preserved castles.

Situated 3 miles (4.8 km) south-east of the city centre, on a low hill to the south of the modern suburb of Craigmillar, it was begun in the late 14th century by the Preston family, feudal barons of Craigmillar, and extended through the 15th and 16th centuries. In 1660 the castle was sold to Sir John Gilmour, Lord President of the Court of Session, who made further alterations. The Gilmours left Craigmillar in the 18th century, and the castle fell into ruin.

Craigmillar Castle

At the core lies the original tower house, among the first of this new form of castle built in Scotland. It stands 17m high to the battlements, has walls almost 3m thick, and holds a warren of rooms, including a fine great hall on the first floor, and the so-called ‘Queen Mary’s Room’ beside it, where Mary is said to have slept when staying there as a guest of the Prestons.

There is also a labyrinth of dark spaces, including a grim basement prison where an upright skeleton was found walled up in the early 19th century.

Beyond the well-preserved 15th-century courtyard wall, complete with gunholes shaped like inverted keyholes, lie other buildings, including a private family chapel.

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Malleny Garden

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 10:01:09 +0000

For a wonderful ride, a great relaxing in nature, there is Malleny Garden. Situated in Balerno, west of Edinburgh, it is 3 acre walled garden with a delightful collection of old fashioned roses and fine herbaceous borders. The house was built for Sir James Murray of Kilbaberton around 1635. Its two Georgian reception rooms, added in 1823, are opened by the Friends of Malleny on occasion during the summer.

Malleny Garden

A particular feature of the garden is the four 400-year old clipped Yew Trees, often referred to as the four Apostles, but there is also extensive woodland for a peaceful stroll surrounded by wildlife.

You will find here large numbers of scented plants in high summer including roses, lavender, Philadelphus, Clematis and many herbs; interesting geometric design of herb and vegetable garden, much admired by garden designers; planted in potager style with flowers and vegetables intermixed; organic methods of cultivation employed; large Victorian greenhouse with summer display of scented-leaved Pelargoniums, Fuchsia, Heliotrope.

The garden also houses the National Bonsai Collection for Scotland.

You can reach the Malleny Garden taking the Lothian Buses (no 44) from Edinburgh city centre; buses run every 10 to 15 minutes daily. Bus stop at Property entrance.

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The Royal Yacht Britannia

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 17:28:48 +0000

Permanently moored as an exhibition ship in the historic Port of Leith, Edinburgh, Scotland, The Royal Yacht Britannia is visited by more than 250.000 people every year.

Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia is the former Royal Yacht of the British monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, the 83rd such vessel since the restoration of King Charles II in 1660. It is the second Royal yacht to bear the name, the first being the famous racing cutter built for The Prince of Wales in 1893.

Built at John Brown’s shipyard on the River Clyde and launched by HM Queen Elizabeth II on 16 April 1953, the Royal Yacht Britannia was used extensively by The Queen and other members of the Royal Family for state and family occasions up to its decommissioning on 11 December 1997. Britannia, that steamed 1,087,623 nautical miles (2,014,278 km), made The Queen the most travelled monarch the world has ever known.

The Royal Yacht Britannia

The ship was designed with three masts, a 133-foot (41 m) foremast, a 139-foot (42 m) mainmast, and a 118-foot (36 m) mizzenmast. The top 20 feet (6.1 m) of the foremast and mainmast were hinged, to allow the ship to pass under bridges.

Five decks are now opened to the public include the Queen’s Bedroom (behind a glass wall) and the State Dining Room. The Royal Deck Tea Room opened in 2009.

Entry to the Royal Yacht Britannia Visitor Centre is via the Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre (go to the second floor). Ocean Terminal is located just two miles to the north of Edinburgh city centre.

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Nelson’s Monument

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 15:09:25 +0000

Situated on top of Calton Hill, in Edinburgh, Scotland, Nelson’s Monument is a commemorative tower in honour of Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson.

With 32 meters (105 feet) high and 143 steps in a spiral staircase, it was built between 1807 and 1815 to commemorate Nelson’s victory over the French and Spanish fleets at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, and his own death at the same battle.

Nelson's Monument

There is also a time ball installed in 1853, as a time signal for shipping in Leith harbour. It is dropped at one o’clock daily, with the exception of Sunday. The Time Ball, synchronized with the city observatory, as well as the firing of the One O’Clock gun at Edinburgh Castle, is raised at 12:55, and dropped five minutes later. The ball, constructed of wood and covered in zinc, weighs 762 kilograms. The time ball was operated for over 150 years, until it was damaged by a storm in 2007. In 2009 it was repaired and installed back on 24 September in the same year.

The monument was constructed at the highest point of Calton Hill, at 171 metres (561 ft) above sea-level, replacing an earlier mast used to send signals to shipping in the Forth. Public access was available from the very beginning, for a small fee.

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Lauriston Castle

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 13:54:37 +0000

Lauriston Castle, a 16th century tower house with 19th century extensions overlooking the Firth of Forth, in Edinburgh, Scotland, is waiting for you with ghost stories, Japanese garden and stunning collections.

The original tower house was built around 1590 by Sir Archibald Napier of Merchiston, the father of John Napier (1550–1617), the inventor of logarithms, for his younger son, also named Archibald. Later, it was the home of John Law (1671–1729), the economist, Right Hon. Andrew Lord Rutherfurd (1791–1854), and Thomas Macknight Crawfurd of Cartsburn and Lauriston Castle, 8th Baron of Cartsburn from 1871 to 1902. In 1827, Thomas Allan, a banker and mineralogist, commissioned William Burn (1789–1870) to extend the house in the Jacobean style.

William Reid, proprietor of Morison and Co., acquired Lauriston Castle in 1902. The Reids, being childless, left their home to Scotland on the condition that it should be preserved unchanged.

Lauriston Castle, Edinburgh

There are stunning collections of Blue John, a fluorspar mineral, found only in Derbyshire; sumptuous Eastern carpets and rugs; intricate line engravings and mezzotints; Crossley wool mosaics, mass-produced tapestry-like pictures and southern Italian furniture.

The gardens at Lauriston include a splendid Japanese garden of one hectare. Opened in August 2002, it was built by Takashi Sawano.

Like so many other Scottish castles, Lauriston Castle is haunted; it is said that the sound of ghostly footsteps can be heard.

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The Brass Rubbing Centre

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 12:43:55 +0000

Very original, The Brass Rubbing Centre, opened in 1988, is waiting for you to admire the collection of replica monumental brasses and to make yourself a rubing.

It is set in Trinity Apse, originally part of Trinity College Church, founded around 1460 and situated near the present Waverley Station.

Trinity College Church was founded by Queen Mary of Gueldres, consort of King James II of Scotland. It was possibly built as a memorial to the King, who died in 1460. Following the Reformation, the Town Council of Edinburgh became governors and custodians of the church. On 2 March 1638, the National Covenant was first read to the people (as opposed to just the nobility) at Trinity College Chapel, an important event in the political and religious life of Scotland.

In the early 1840s, the first railways arrived in Edinburgh, and Trinity College Church stood in the way of the North British Railway Company’s development. The new Trinity College Church was opened in October 1877, and it was demolished in 1960, leaving the apse. The apse was used as a newspaper reading room and a museum store before the opening of the Brass Rubbing Centre in 1988.

Brass Rubbing Centre, Edinburgh

The Brass Rubbing Centre includes a number of replica monumental brasses. Designs features medieval knights and ladies, Pictich symbols and Celtic designs.

Opened from April to September, it has free admission, but it will cost you to make a rubbing and to take it home with you.

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The Old City Observatory

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 12:00:07 +0000

On Calton Hill, in Edinburgh, Scotland, there is The City Observatory, an astronomical observatory.

The Astronomical Institute was formed in 1812 with the intention of establishing a proper Observatory for scientific work, to provide a time service for Edinburgh and Leith and to create a popular Observatory. The new observatory was to be built on the site of Short’s original octagonal observatory. The foundation stone was laid in 1818 and it was completed in 1822, and named the Royal Observatory of King George IV.

Toward the end of the 19th century, in the wake of the Royal Observatory moving to Blackford Hill, a new City Observatory was created on Calton Hill. It was opened in 1898.

The Old City Observatory

The central building, that seems to be a Greek temple, is the Playfair Building, named after the building’s designer William Henry Playfair. This houses the 6-inch (15 cm) refractor in its dome and the 6.4-inch (16 cm) transit telescope in its eastern wing. The largest dome of the site is the City Dome in the northeast corner. During the early 20th century this contained a 22-inch (56 cm) refractor. The site is enclosed by a boundary wall with a monument to John Playfair, president of the Edinburgh Astronomical Institution, in the southeast corner.

There are some of the original instruments, including the Frauenhofer transit telescope from the 1830s and the Cooke telescope.

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The People’s Story Museum

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 17:10:52 +0000

If you want to find out more about the lives of Edinburgh’s ordinary people at work and play from the late 18th century to our days, you have to visit The People’s Story Museum.

The People’s Story Museum is housed in the Canongate Tolbooth, a Royal Mile landmark built in 1591. It was the courthouse, prison and centre of burgh affairs when the Burgh of Canongate was independent from Edinburgh.

The People’s Story Museum

From work to home, healthcare to social activities, people of the past are brough to life through re-created settings, displays and costumed figures. There are everyday objects, treasures from important events, photographs and oral history collections.

You can see displays showing a bookbinder’s workshop, a wartime kitchen and much more, all packed with real objects. You can even discover a former jail, an original part of this historic building. There are also forms of employment such as printing, brewing and domestic service.

More than that, you can find out about interesting collections of objects from different religious faiths, and ethnic and social groups, including Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender communities.

Admission is free.

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The Museum of Childhood

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 16:28:31 +0000

A large collections of toys, dolls, teddy bears or games from the 18^th to 21^st century, from all over the world, you can find at the Museum of Childhood. Situated on the Royal Mile, in Edinburgh, Scotland, the museum explores all aspects of childhood, from baby raising and healthcare to education.

The first museum in the world dedicated to the history of childhood, it was founded by Patrick Murray, a passionate collector of toys and childhood objects who was also an Edinburgh Town Councillor.

The Museum of Childhood

The museum is spread over 5 floors in 5 different galleries. Besides a large collections of books, photographs and clothing, from christening robes to fancy dress, there are also an indoor play area, a puppet theatre and dressing up area, a museum shop, just to spend here unforgettable moments.

The museum also hosts a wonderful collection includes early Steiff Bears and a delicate 18th century ‘Queen Anne’ doll, dressed in the latest fashion of the times. The Stanbrig Eorls dolls house, with its 21 rooms that contain over 2.000 items, from tiny towels in the bathroom to skittles in the nursery, is a favourite of the visitors. The miniature 1880s butcher’s shop covered in prime cuts of ‘meat’, supervised by its own miniature butcher, is another favourite.

Set in two historic buildings that were constructed in the 18th century, the Museum of Childhood has free entrance!

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Writers’ Museum

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 14:27:31 +0000

Portraits, rare books, etchings, busts and also bibles, pipes and walking sticks you can find at the Writers’ Museum, in Edinburgh, Scotland. The museum, housed off the Royal Mile in Lady Stair’s Close, hosts permanent exhibitions of three of Scotland’s most famous writers: Robert Burns (1759 – 1796), Sir Walter Scott (1771 – 1832) and Robert Louis Stevenson (1850 – 1894). Other prominent Scottish writers, including contemporary authors, are featured in the museum’s programme of temporary exhibitions.

The Writers' Museum

Originally built in 1622 as a private home for one of the city’s wealthiest families, The Lady Stairs House is a small building with a narrow curling, stone staircase. Here you can see nowadays original tools of the trade, such as Burns’ writing desk, Scott’s chessboard, rocking horse, dining table, and the printing press on which his Waverley novels were produced.

The dining room of Sir Walter Scott’s North Castle Street home has been also reconstructed in the Writers’ Museum. There is also a plaster cast of Robert Burns’ skull, one of only three ever made.

Lady Stair was the the widow of John Dalrymple (1648-1707) the first Earl of Stair. She bought the house in 1719 from Sir William Gray of Pittendrum, an Edinburgh Baronet.

Sometimes, the Museum runs special exhibitions on one of the three writers.

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Scott Monument

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 13:15:13 +0000

In Princes Street Garden in Edinburgh, there is the Scott Monument, a Victorian Gothic monument erected to the memory of Scottish author Sir Walter Scott, dead in 1832.

The foundation stone was laid on the 15th of August 1840, while the construction began in 1841. The tower was completed in the autumn of 1844 and it was inaugurated on the 15th of August 1846.

Scott Monument

Constructed from Binnie stone, that contains natural oils which are said to aid its preservation, the monument is 200 feet 6 inches (61,11 meters) high and 55 feet square at the base. The highest gallery is reached by climbing a total of 287 steps. Sir John Steell’s statue of Sir Walter Scott is executed in Carrara marble and is more than double life-size.

The monument has 64 niches, in each of which, in accordance with the original design, a statuette has been placed, all the statuettes representing characters from the works of Sir Walter Scott.

Born in College Wynd in the Old Town of Edinburgh in 1771, Sir Walter Scott, 1st Baronet, was a historical novelist, playwright, and poet, popular throughout much of the world during his time. Best known as the author of Ivanhoe, Rob Roy, The Lady of the Lake or Waverley, Walter Scott remains famous of both English-language literature and for his contribution to Scottish literature.

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Surgeons’ Hall Museums

Edinburgh Information — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 11:24:38 +0000

The Museum of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, Scotland’s oldest museum, has been open to the general public since 1832. Very original and surprising, it houses one of the largest and most historic collections of surgical pathology material in the United Kingdom.

Surgeons’ Hall Museums

The museum features interesting exhibitions and collections. Surgeons’ Hall Pathology Museum is one of the oldest and most complete of its kind in the world and one of the few that is open to the general public. Dental Collection, one of the finest in UK, demonstrates the development of dentistry from its earliest days to modern times. The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh was the first College in Europe to set up a specialist faculty in Sports Medicine. In History of Surgery, the exhibition explores the development of Sports and Exercise Medicine. Visitors can test their own surgical skill at key-hole surgery with the use of a laparoscopic training unit. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle exhibition presents Conan Doyle’s relationship with Joseph Bell who later became President of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

The museum is located within the campus of The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and has free entry.

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The Scottish kilt

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 19:45:46 +0000

The kilt, a knee-length garment with pleats at the rear, appeared for the first time in the 16th century. In last years, it has been adapted as an item of fashionable informal male clothing.

A traditional dress of men and boys in the Scottish Highlands, the kilt was initially a full-length garment whose upper half was worn as a cloak draped over the shoulder, or brought up over head as a cloak. The small kilt or walking kilt (similar to the “modern” kilt) did not develop until the late 17th or early 18th century, and is essentially the bottom half of the great kilt. Since the 19th century it has become associated with the wider culture of Scotland in general, or with Celtic (and more specifically Gaelic) heritage even more broadly.

The Scottish kilt

The authentic kilt is made from twill woven worsted wool.

The Scottish kilt displays uniqueness of design, construction, and convention which differentiate it from other garments fitting the general description. It is a tailored garment that is wrapped around the wearer’s body at the natural waist, starting from one side (usually the wearer’s left), around the front and back and across the front again to the opposite side. The fastenings consist of straps and buckles on both ends, the strap on the inside end usually passing through a slit in the waistband to be buckled on the outside; alternatively it may remain inside the waistband and be buckled inside.

One of the most-distinctive features of the authentic Scots kilt is the tartan pattern. Today there are also tartans for districts, counties, societies and corporations.

Kilts are also used for parades by groups such as the Scouts, and in many places kilts are seen in force at Highland games and pipe band championships as well as being worn at Scottish country dances and ceilidhs.

Although not a traditional component of national dress outside Scotland, kilts have become recently popular in the other Celtic nations as a sign of Celtic identity.

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Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 17:18:21 +0000

Edinburgh’s oldest visitor attraction, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, is waiting for you with tricks, illusions, puzzles, hands-on experiences and unbelievable effects to experience and interact with. A fascinating trip to an unusual world.

For 175 years, The Camera Obscura offers its visitors an amazing live panorama of the city.

Camera Obscura, Edinburgh

It’s a unique experience, a fascinating way to see the city and learn about its history. It’s Edinburgh, as you never seen.

There is also a rooftop views with free telescopes, including a great high-power Russian Navy telescope which gives close-up views of the city and far beyond.

You can see then Edinburgh in 3D from the 1850s to the present day.

New exhibition spaces Bewilderworld and The Puzzling Zone, Vortex Tunnel, Ames Room Hide and Seek Mirror, there are all waiting for you in the World of Illusions.

In the Magic Gallery, catch your shadow, shake hands with your ghost and discover a new you in the morphing machine. Amazing optical illusions! You’ll be amazed at the giant kaleidoscopes, one of the world’s biggest plasmadomes, giant lenses which let you see your friends in a whole new light, and the fishtank where you can walk on water!

You must try also the Light Fantastic: enter a new dimension in the U.K.’s only permanent gallery dedicated to the science and art of holography. You’ll watch entranced as these eerily realistic 3D pictures change, appear and disappear before your eyes!

Amazing range of puzzles, illusions, holograms and other unusual gifts, postcards, guidebooks, and digital memory cards, these are all a great gift ideas at your disposal.

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Scotch whisky experience, in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 16:19:28 +0000

Once arrived in the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, there is a real challenge to participate to a whisky tasting event.

Scotch Whisky Experience Centre, located on the Royal Mile, at the top of Castle Hill adjacent to Edinburgh Castle and the Camera Obscura, offers you an unforgettable memory. For approximately one hour, you will have the opportunity to nose and taste 4 single malt whiskies from the four main whisky producing regions of Scotland: Lowlands, Highlands, Speyside and Islay. Whiskies are selected to illustrate regional differences, wood finishes, differing ages of maturation and methods of production.

Tasting Scotch whisky

There is also an interactive tour that starts with a swirling, bubbling barrel ride through a replica distillery as you become part of the whisky making process.

Finally, everyone is gifted an exclusive Scotch Whisky Experience Centre whisky miniature.

The first written mention of Scotch whisky is in the Exchequer Rolls of Scotland, 1495. The distiller, named John Cor, was a friar.

Made in Scotland, scotch whisky is divided into five distinct categories: single malt Scotch whisky, blended malt (formerly called “vatted malt” or “pure malt”), blended Scotch whisky, blended grain Scotch whisky and single grain Scotch whisky.

An age statement on a bottle of Scotch whisky, in the form of a number, must reflect the age of the youngest Scotch whisky used to produce that product. A whisky with an age statement is known as guaranteed age whisky.

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The Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 15:05:46 +0000

A beautiful and refreshing place just one mile from the city centre. The Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh (RGBE), a scientific centre for the study of plants and a popular tourist attraction as well, also hosts many events such as live performances, guided tours and exhibitions. The RBGE is an important centre for education, offering taught courses across all levels.

Founded in 1670 as a physic garden to grow medicinal plants, it is the second oldest botanic garden in Britain after Oxford’s. Today it occupies four sites across Scotland, each with its own specialist collection.

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh’s living collection consists of more than 15.000 plant species.

The Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh

The Herbarium (situated in a purpose built facility at the Edinburgh site) is considered a world-leading botanical collection, housing in excess of 3 million specimens.

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh’s Library is Scotland’s national reference collection for specialist botanical and horticultural resources. One of the country’s largest research library, it houses around 70.000 books and 150.000 periodicals.

Built in 1858, the Temperate Palm House remains the tallest in Britain to the present day.

Entrance to the botanic garden is free, although a small entry charge exists for the glasshouses.

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The Palace of Holyroodhouse

Edinburgh Information — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 14:08:05 +0000

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, The Queen’s official residence in Scotland, is the setting for state ceremonies and official entertaining. Throughout the year, it is also open to the public, except when members of the Royal Family are in residence.

The palace stands at the bottom of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, at the opposite end to Edinburgh Castle. Since the 15th century, Holyrood Palace served as the principal residence of the Kings and Queens of Scots.

The Palace of Holyroodhouse

Built around a quadrangle, the Palace contained a chapel, gallery, royal apartments and a great hall.

The wooden ceilings of the main rooms are from Mary’s time and the monograms MR (Maria Regina) and IR (Jacobus Rex) refer to Mary and her son, James VI. Shields commemorating Mary’s marriage to Francis II of France are believed to have been carved in 1559 but put in their present position in 1617. The suite contains an audience chamber and the Queen’s bedroom, leading from which are two turret rooms. It was in the northern turret room, on 9 March 1565, that the murder of David Rizzio took place in Mary’s presence. Her private secretary, David Rizzio, was murdered by a group led by her husband, Lord Darnley, who believed she was having an affair with Rizzio. In later centuries, tourists were often convinced that they could see his blood stains on the floor.

The Queen’s Gallery at the Palace of Holyroodhouse hosts a programme of changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection.

The Augustinian abbey, situated in the grounds, was founded at the order of King David I of Scotland in 1128. Many royal coronations and marriage ceremonies took place here and a number of Kings of Scots and other Scottish royalty are buried there.

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St. Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 18:01:47 +0000

St. Giles’ Cathedral, named after St. Giles, a very popular saint in the Middle Ages and the patron saint of Edinburgh, is a Church of Scotland place of worship decorating the midpoint of the Royal Mile with its distinctive traditional Scottish crown steeple.

Many monuments and memorials, as well as sheer size and location, have made it a very popular tourist attraction, drawing special notice during the annualEdinburgh Festival.

St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh

Nowadays regarded as the mother church of Presbyterianism, St. Giles was only a cathedral in its formal sense for two periods during the 17th century (1635–38 and 1661–1689).

The oldest parts of the building are four massive central pillars, often said to date from 1124. In 1385 the building suffered a fire and was rebuilt in the subsequent years.

During the Reformation in 1560, the Mary-Bell and brass candlesticks were scrapped to be made into guns, and the relic of the arm of St. Giles with its diamond finger ring (acquired in 1454) and other treasures were sold to the Edinburgh goldsmiths Michael Gilbert and John Hart, and the brass lectern to Adam Fullerton, for scrap-metal.

During the years 1872-83, Sir William Chambers, Lord Provost of Edinburgh, planned and financed a further major restoration with the aim of creating a national church building: “a Westminster Abbey for Scotland.”

The Thistle Chapel (1911, by Robert Lorimer) is the chapel of The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, Scotland’s foremost Order of Chivalry. It is a small, but exquisite, chapel with carved and painted fittings of extraordinary detail.

Notable monuments include those to James Graham, Marquess of Montrose (1612–50), his enemy Archibald Campbell, 1st Marquess of Argyll (1607–61) and Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–94) and, in a frame, a copy of the National Covenant of 1638. The Protestant Reformer, John Knox, was also buried in the church yard, though no grave survives.

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Princes Street and Princes Street Gardens, for a memorable walk in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 17:23:11 +0000

Princes Street, one of the major thoroughfares in central Edinburgh, Scotland, and its main shopping street, was named after King George III’s two sons, the Duke of Rothesay (later King George IV) and Frederick, Duke of York. Mostly closed to private cars, the street has no buildings on the south side, allowing panoramic views of the Old Town and Edinburgh Castle.

As main shopping street in Edinburgh, there are numerous UK high street brands where you can find beautiful and valuable things for a great gift idea or just for yourself. Bhs, Debenhams, House of Fraser, Marks & Spencer, Jenners are just some of these brands waiting for you in a great session of shopping.

Princes Street Gardens is a public park in the centre of Edinburgh, Scotland, a popular meeting place. Created in the 1820s, nowadays houses concerts at the Ross Bandstand, particularly at the city’s Hogmanay celebrations.

Princes Street Gardens

Walking along the south side of Princes Street, there are many statues and monuments: the gothic Scott Monument built in 1844 to honour Sir Walter Scott, statues of explorer David Livingstone, publisher Adam Black and essayist Professor John Wilson. In the West Gardens are the statues of poet Allan Ramsay, reformer Thomas Guthrie, obstetric pioneer James Young Simpson, as well as the Scottish American War Memorial, the Ross Fountain and Bandstand, and a popular floral clock.

Every year, in the weeks leading up to Christmas, the Princes Street Gardens become ‘Winter Wonderland’, that means a variety of amusement park rides and the Christmas Market.

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Good Scottish restaurants, in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 15:32:09 +0000

If you are looking for a great meal in Edinburgh, a special night out or just a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, you have to know that there are numerous, fantastic restaurants. From Scottish to Italian, Mongolian or Moroccan, Cuban or Californian, it is impossible not to find something for your taste.

Regarding Scottish restaurants, the most famous restaurant in Edinburgh, The Witchery, is both extensive and expensive. Howies, a great modern Scottish cooking, bring all its beef and game from Scottish farms. The Sizzling Scot is the local where you can find out about the wonderful food available in Scotland. Stac Polly is one of Edinburgh’s original restaurants for authentic Scottish food and atmosphere. At McKirdy’s Steakhouse you can find an informal Scottish steak joint. Jackson’s is one of Edinburgh’s longest-standing Scottish restaurants, a very traditional one.

Skippers, Edinburgh

For those who love seafood, there are also some famous restaurants in Edinburgh not to be missed. At First Coast, although specializing in seafood, there are plenty of other options for the landlubbers. The Mussel Inn is famous for mussels, oysters and scallops. Fishers in the City, perhaps the city’s most popular seafood restaurant, has an extensive seafood menu. Creelers, stylish and elegant, gets most of its seafood straight from the west coast of Scotland. For over 30 years, Skippers, the oldest fish restaurant in Edinburgh serve only the freshest locally sourced seafood, meat, fish, game, fruit and vegetables.

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The Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 13:26:52 +0000

Theatre, comedy, music, dance and physical theatre, musicals and opera, events, exhibitions and children’s shows. All these, in a great atmosphere, you may find every year at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe (The Fringe).

The world’s largest arts festival, was established in 1946 as an alternative to the Edinburgh International Festival. During four weeks, every August, alongside several other arts and cultural festivals collectively known as the Edinburgh Festival (of which the Fringe is by far the largest) the festival grows bigger by the year.

The Fringe

In 2009, there were 34.265 performances of 2.098 different shows in 265 venues, over 25 days with 1.300 performances per day. There were an estimated 18.901 performers, from 60 countries.

Lately, around the entire world, the concept of Fringe theatre has been copied. The largest and most celebrated of these spawned festivals are Adelaide Fringe Festival, National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, South Africa, and Edmonton International Fringe Festival. The number of such events continues to grow, especially in the USA and Canada.

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Rugby union

Edinburgh Information — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 10:07:04 +0000

Rugby union is a popular team sport in Scotland. The first international rugby match was played on March 27, 1871, at Raeburn Place in Edinburgh, when Scotland defeated England in front of 4.000 people.

According to the International Rugby Board as of September 2010, Scotland has 241 rugby union clubs; 343 referees; 7.556 pre-teen male players; 13.402 teen male players; 10.556 senior male players (total male players 31.514) as well as 1.303 (total) female players.

Rugby union

One of two professional rugby union teams in Scotland competing in the Magners League is Edinburgh Rugby. Murrayfield Stadium, the largest capacity stadium in Scotland, with around 67.000 seats, currently houses play games of Edinburgh.

The original Edinburgh district team played the first ever inter-district match in 1872, against Glasgow Warriors. The team was reformed in 1996 to compete in the Heineken Cup, its best performance coming in the 2003/04 tournament where it became the first Scottish side to reach the quarter-finals.

Glasgow Warriors, the other professional rugby union team in Scotland competing in the Magners League, remain their oldest rivals.

Edinburgh is also home to numerous smaller rugby teams including Boroughmuir, Edinburgh Academicals and Currie.

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New Town

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 15:11:45 +0000

Seen as one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture and planning in the world, the New Town is a central area of Edinburgh, Scotland. The New Town, nowadays a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was an 18th century solution to the problem of an increasingly crowded Old Town. It was built in stages between 1765 and around 1850.

If you want to pay a visit to that part of Edinburgh, it is important to know that it houses the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy, located on The Mound, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, situated on Queen Street, the Assembly Rooms on George Street, the Balmoral Hotel with its landmark clock tower above Waverley Station, and the Scott Monument.

Edinburgh, New Town

Its most famous street is Princes Street, that houses many chain shops, as well as Jenners department store, an Edinburgh institution. There is also George Street, once the financial centre, now with numerous modern bars. The St. James Centre, at the east end of the New Town, is an indoor mall completed in 1970. By the Waverley Train Station lies the Princes’ Street Mall, which contains many high street stores.

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Hogmanay celebration in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 13:59:50 +0000

Originally a street party held on Princes Street and the Royal Mile, the Hogmanay has been officially organised in Edinburgh since 1993. With thousands of participants from all over the world, Hogmanay now covers four days of processions, concerts and fireworks, with the street party commencing on Hogmanay. During the street party Princes Street is accessible by ticket only. Alternative tickets are available for entrance into the Princes Street Gardens concert and Ceilidh, where well known artists perform and ticket holders are invited to participate in traditional Scottish Ceilidh dancing.

Hogmanay in Edinburgh

Hogmanay is the Scots word for the last day of the year and is synonymous with the celebration of the New Year (Gregorian calendar) in the Scottish manner.

The roots of Hogmanay perhaps reach back to the celebration of the winter solstice among the Norse, as well as incorporating customs from the Gaelic New Year’s celebration of Samhain.

There are many customs, both national and local, associated with Hogmanay. The most widespread national custom is the practice of ‘first-footing’ which starts immediately after midnight. That means being the first person to cross the threshold of a friend or neighbour and giving of symbolic gifts such as salt, coal, shortbread, whisky and black bun (a rich fruit cake) intended to bring different kinds of luck to the householder. The first-foot is supposed to set the luck for the rest of the year. Traditionally, tall dark men are preferred as the first-foot.

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The National Gallery of Scotland

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 13:27:26 +0000

The National Gallery of Scotland, in Edinburgh, first opened to the public in 1859, is located on The Mound, between the two sections of Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens. Together with The Royal Scottish Academy Building, The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and The Dean Gallery, they represent The National Galleries of Scotland.

The National Gallery of Scotland

The National Gallery of Scotland houses national collection of art. Works of several famous artists, from all over the world, can be admired here: Sandro Botticelli, Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, Paul Gauguin, Francisco de Goya, Claude Monet, Raphael, Rembrandt van Rijn, Diego Velázquez, Vincent van Gogh, William York Macgregor, William MacTaggart, Giovanni Battista Piranesi, Peter Paul Rubens, William Strang, Tintoretto, Leonardo da Vinci, Sir David Wilkie.

The archive and study facilities at the National Gallery include the Prints and Drawings Collection of over 30.000 works on paper, from the early Renaissance to the late nineteenth century; there is also the reference-only research library, which is available to the general public. With more than 50.000 volumes of books, journals, slides, photographs and microfiches, as well as archived material relating to the collections, exhibitions and history of the National Gallery, the library covers the period from 1300 to 1900.

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Travelling in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 11:37:02 +0000

Once arrived in Edinburgh, you will find excellent travel services, whether you choose to travel by train, by bus or by car.

Edinburgh Waverley, the main railway station in the capital of Scotland, is covering an area of over 25 acres in a steep, narrow valley between the medieval Old Town and the 18th century New Town. A total of 24 platforms exist at Waverley and over 19.2 million people use them annually. Waverley serves as the terminus for trains arriving from London King’s Cross and is the departure point for many rail services within Scotland operated by First ScotRail.

The largest provider of bus services in Edinburgh is Lothian Buses, with 114 million annual ridership. Founded in 1919, it now operates the majority of city bus services within the City and to surrounding suburbs, all of the City’s branded public tour bus services, the night bus network and airport buses.

Lothian buses

In early 2008, in Edinburgh began the construction of a new tram network, because since 1956 there is no tram system in the capital of Scotland. The first stage of the project was expected to be operational by July 2011 but is unlikely to be working before the beginning of 2012.

If you are travelling by car, Edinburgh is served by six park and ride sites on the periphery of the city.

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Medical care in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 10:29:56 +0000

The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh (RIE), which includes Edinburgh University Medical School, is a major acute teaching hospital. The oldest voluntary hospital in Scotland, it was established in 1729.

Nowadays, with a 24-hour Accident and Emergency department and more than 900 inpatient beds, it provides a full range of acute medical and surgical services. Specialist services include cardiac surgery, and also kidney, liver, pancreas and bone marrow transplants. The RIE is home to the Scottish Liver Transplant Unit.

The Royal Infirmery of Edinburgh

The hospital is also home to Scotland’s biggest maternity unit – some 6000 babies are born at the RIE’s Simpson Centre for Reproductive Health each year – and Scotland’s busiest A&E department. Now is building NHS Lothian’s first birthing centre to give women more choice about the birth of their baby.

The hospital is served by many bus routes to and from all areas of the city.

Beside the RIE, there is Western General Hospital, founded in 1868. With a capacity of 800 inpatient beds, there is a major national cancer research and treatment centre at the hospital. The first Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centre opened at the Western General in 1996.

There is also The Royal Edinburgh Hospital, situated in Morningside, specialised in mental health and The Royal Hospital for Sick Children, located in Sciennes Road.

In Edinburgh there is one private hospital, Murrayfield Hospital, owned by Spire Healthcare.

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Famous people in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 09:50:37 +0000

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sir Thomas Sean Connery, Alexander Graham Bell, J.K. Rowling, Sir Walter Scott are just some of the names in Edinburgh City.

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859 – 1930) the famous creator of Sherlock Holmes, was born in Edinburgh and studied medicine at the University of Edinburgh. There is a statue of Sherlock Holmes in Picardy Place, Edinburgh, near the house where Conan Doyle was born.

Sir Thomas Sean Connery (Thomas Connery, his real name), well known for James Bond character, grew up in impoverished surroundings in Edinburgh. He is also famous for his unmistakable Scottish accent.

Sean Connery

Alexander Graham Bell (1847 – 1922) scientist, inventor, was born in Edinburgh. The telephone pioneer, he became the first person who has patented a device capable to emit and receive spoken words.

J. K. Rowling, famous author of Harry Potter, wrote her first book in a coffee shop from Edinburgh (Nicolson’s Cafe).

J. K. Rowling

Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832) a historical novelist, playwright, and poet, born in College Wynd in the Old Town of Edinburgh, studied at the University of Edinburgh. Became famous for titles such as Ivanhoe, Rob Roy.

Other notable residents of Edinburgh, Scotland, are Charles Darwin, the biologist who discovered natural selection; John Napier inventor of logarithms; Ian Wilmut, the geneticist involved in the cloning of Dolly the sheep just outside Edinburgh, Tony Blair, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Ian Anderson, frontman of the band Jethro Tull; Shirley Manson, lead singer for the band Garbage.

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Leight, the port of Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 18:40:28 +0000

Leith, the port of Edinburgh, is located to the north of the city centre on the shoreline of the Firth of Forth. Traditionally a separate burgh, Leith and its inhabitants remain independent in nature and character, despite being absorbed by the larger City of Edinburgh.

Leith

With plenty of shops, pubs, restaurants, parks and community events, it is one of Scotland’s most cosmopolitan communities. It’s interesting to remember that Leith has become the top foodie destination in Edinburgh and among the best in the UK.

In Leith there are interesting touristic objectives such as The Royal Yacht Britannia, Ocean Terminal, open daily, except Christmas Day and New Year’s Day; 6 Times, a new work by world-renowned artist Antony Gormley (six life-sized human figures have been installed in and along the Water of Leith, between the National Gallery of Modern Art and the sea at Leith Docks).

Fishing is possible along most of the length of the Water of Leith. Permits are required, but can be easily obtained, free of charge, from the City Council offices at Waverley Market in the New Town and Cockburn Street in the Old Town.

For entertainment, there is Leith Festival, that takes place in June every year and the Edinburgh Mela, a multi-cultural festival, largely based around South-Asian traditions, that is held in the first week of August. Edinburgh Airport Parking

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Old Town of Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 17:47:21 +0000

The Old Town of Edinburgh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its numerous Reformation-era buildings, medieval plan, narrow alleyways (often no more than a few feet wide), still keeps the flavor of past centuries.

From the New Town, it’s a short walk along North Bridge from the east end of Princes Street; up the Mound (quite steep!) alongside the National Galleries; or up Lothian Road from the west end of Princes Street.

The Old Town

Once arrived here, there are numerous places for visiting by all means: Edinburgh Castle, Abbey and Palace of Holyroodhouse, St. Giles’ Cathedral and the Law Courts. Other notable places include the Royal Museum of Scotland, Surgeons’ Hall and McEwan Hall, Old Parliament Hall, North Bridge, the Scottish Parliament, Museum of Scotland and Royal Museum of Scotland, the University of Edinburgh.

For a shopping session there is Victoria Street and the east end of the Grassmarket, while a drink you can have in many famous, traditional pubs on Grassmarket.

Just beside Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery is a small, beautiful candle-lit restaurant with incredible food, excellent service and a great wine list.

The Old Town is connected to the rest of Edinburgh by bus. Numerous taxi ranks can also be found, but Edinburgh taxis are pretty expensive.

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Nightlife in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 16:25:19 +0000

Numerous pubs, clubs and restaurants are waiting for you in Edinburgh, Scotland, for a great nightlife. The traditional areas were the Grassmarket, Lothian Road and surrounding streets, Rose Street and its surrounds and the Bridges. Lately, George Street in the New Town become famous, with a large number of new, upmarket public houses and nightclubs opening, along with a number on the parallel Queen Street.

Nightlife in Edinburgh

The largest nightclubs are Lava & Ignite (formerly Cavendish) and City Nightclub, as well as the University of Edinburgh’s student union, Potterrow. Smaller commercial venues include Base, Faith, Stereo, and Karma.

The main alternative, indie and rock nights are hosted at The Hive, Opium and Studio 24.

The most of underground events from Edinburgh take place at The GRV, Cabaret Voltaire, The Bongo Club and Sneaky Pete’s.

There are also two dedicated gay clubs in Edinburgh, CC Blooms and GHQ; several other club venues have LGBT nights.

If you need more information, a fortnightly publication, The List, is dedicated to life in Edinburgh and around, and contains listings of all nightclubs, as well as music, theatrical and other events. All of Which are a stones throw from Edinburgh Airport Parking.

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Festivals in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 12:57:22 +0000

From April until middle of September, a series of separate, art and cultural events, known as The Edinburgh Festival, attract numerous people from all over the world in the capital city of Scotland. Most of them take place in August, when it’s almost impossible to find accommodation if you don’t have any reservation.

This cultural event traces its roots to 1947 when the Edinburgh International Festival (EIF) was established in a post-war effort to “provide a platform for the flowering of the human spirit”.

There are classical and contemporary theatre, opera, music, dance, visual arts, talks and workshops, for spending incredible days in a great atmosphere.

Festival in Edinburgh

The Edinburgh summer festivals are the largest cultural event of its kind in the world. Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh Fringe, Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festivals, Edinburgh Art Festival are only a few of those wonderful, cultural events. Please Visit us at Edinburgh Airport Parking

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Edinburgh Castle, between history and legend

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 11:48:09 +0000

Visited annually by approximately one million people, Edinburgh Castle is a touristic attraction not only for its history but also because it offers a beautiful panoramic views of the city and many interesting stories.

Edinburgh Castle

The seat of Scottish Kings, Edinburgh Castle is located at the top of the Royal Mile, at the west end of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The volcanic Castle Rock offers a naturally defended position, with sheer cliffs to north and south, and a steep ascent from the west. The summit of the Castle Rock is 120 metres (390 ft) above sea level, with rocky cliffs to the south, west and north, rearing up to 80 metres (260 ft) from the surrounding landscape.

History and legend come togheter to offers visitors memorable moments and a desire to always return at Edinburgh Castle. One O’Clock Gun, a time signal, fired every day except Sunday, Good Friday and Christmas Day at precisely 1.00 pm. A ghost of a headless drummer (who was sighted as recently as 1960) and a piper playing on the battlements. Edinburgh Military Tattoo, the annual occasion on which, over a period of three weeks in August, the Army presents a lively programme of music, marching and historical re-enactments. There is also St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh, which dates from the early 12th century, the Royal Palace and the early-16th-century Great Hall, the Scottish National War Memorial and National War Museum of Scotland.

Besides these, there are many facilities, including two cafés/restaurants, several shops, and numerous historical displays. Edinburgh Airport Parking is located just 8 miles away from Edinburgh Castle.

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Edinburgh Airport

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 11:41:13 +0000

With nine million passengers in 2009, Edinburgh Airport is the busiest airport from Scotland and principal international gateway to the capital. Located at Turnhouse, at 5 nautical miles (9.3 km) west of the city centre, the airport is situated just off the M8 motorway. It has also easy access from the M90 motorway (from Perth) via the Forth Road Bridge.

Edinburgh airport

The present terminal building, designed by Robert Matthew, was constructed in 1977 and has been upgraded in recent years, with new car parking facilities and an extended arrivals hall. A new control tower was completed in 2005.

Between the airport and Edinburgh city centre, Lothian buses provide public transportation with the Airlink 100 express, as well as local bus services. Additionally, Stagecoach operates the AirDirect 747 express bus service between the airport and Inverkeithing railway station and Ferrytoll Park and Ride in Fife, and the Gyle Shopping Centre and Heriot-Watt University.

There are currently no direct rail links to Edinburgh Airport, although it lies very close to the Fife Circle and the Edinburgh-Glasgow railway lines.

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Shopping in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 11:34:59 +0000

Once arrived in Edinburgh, it is impossible to miss a shopping session. The main shopping area, Princes Street, located in the city centre, comes with a wide range of stores from souvenir shops, to chains such asBoots and H&M and institutions like Jenners. Just off Princes Street, near Waverley Station , is Princess Mall Shopping Centre, with plenty of stores for every purpose. The St. James Centre, at the eastern end of George Street and Princes Street, hosts a substantial number of national chains including a large John Lewis. Multrees Walk, adjacent to the St. James Centre, is a recent addition to the city centre, hosting brands such as Louis Vuitton, Emporio Armani, Mulberry and Calvin Klein.

Edinburgh also has important stores outside the city centre: The Gyle and Hermiston Gait in the west of the city, Cameron Toll, Straiton Retail Park and Fort Kinnaird in the south and east, and Ocean Terminal to the north, on the Leith waterfront.

Shopping in Edinburgh

For those who are looking for Scottish souvenirs, the best place is the Grassmarket, with Edinburgh’s most unique and quirky shops. Regarding vintage shopping, Edinburgh has a fine selection of second-hand clothing stores. And the historic port ofLeith with its numerous bars, bistros, shops and attractions, it’s impossible not to be distinguishable. Ocean Terminal offers quality shopping with some fantastic views over the Firth of Forth to Fife!

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Edinburgh Zoo, most exciting wildlife attraction in Scotland

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 11:27:37 +0000

Two male Indian Rhinoceroses (Samir and Bertus), a pair of jaguars (Mowgli and Tina), and Asiatic Lions (Royal, Gita and Kamlesh), a pair of Northern Luzon Giant Cloud Rats and a pair of Aardwolves who arrived from the Rare Species Conservation Centre in Kent. All these and another 1000 wonderful, rare animals, can be admired on Edinburgh Zoo: carnivores, penguins and sealions, primates and Koalas, hoofstock, birds, reptiles and amphibians.

Opened in July 1913, the Zoo is situated three miles to the west of Edinburgh city centre. It has 82 acres (330,000 m²) of parkland which are predominated by mammal and bird species. It is the only zoo in Britain to house koalas and the first zoo in the world to house and to breed penguins.

Penguin at Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh Zoo is one of Europe’s leading centres of conservation, education and research. Its mission is “To excite and inspire our visitors with the wonder of living animals, and so to promote the conservation of threatened species and habitats”.

With over 600.000 visitors per year, Edinburgh Zoo is the largest and most exciting wildlife attraction in Scotland. Open every day of the year including Christmas Day, it is Scotland’s second most popular paid-for tourist attraction, after Edinburgh Castle.

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The University of Edinburgh, one of the most prestigious universities in Europe

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 11:05:58 +0000

One of Scotland’s oldest universities, The University of Edinburgh, gave the city the nickname of the Athens of the north. Nowdays, with three Colleges containing a total of 22 school, it is regarded as one of the most prestigious universities in Europe. Plus of that, with 67 clubs – from the traditional Football and Rugby to the more unconventional Korfball or Gliding – Edinburgh University is one of Britain’s most successful sporting universities.

Founded in 1583, it was the fourth university to be established in Scotland. The founding of the University is attributed to Bishop Robert Reid of St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall, Orkney, who left the funds on his death in 1558 that ultimately provided the University’s endowment, unusual at the time when most universities were established through Papal bulls. More than that, the next year its funding came from the Town Council, making it the first civic university, known as the “Tounis College”. It became the fourth Scottish university in a period when the much more populous and richer England had only two.

Edinburgh University

Thanks to the University, a number of historic and modern buildings were built across the City, including the oldest purpose-built concert hall in Scotland and the second oldest in use in the British Isles, St Cecilia’s Concert Hall; Teviot Row House, which is the oldest purpose built Student Union Building in the world; and the handsomely restored 17th-century Mylne’s Court student residence which stands at the head of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

The QS World University Rankings 2010 ranked the University of Edinburgh as the 22nd university in the world. In 2010, the Academic Ranking of World Universities placed University of Edinburgh as 54th overall and 14th in Europe.

The nearest international airport is Edinburgh Airport. Which servers over 200 countries, and is the airport of choice for students.

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Edinburgh, one of the picturesque cities in Europe

Edinburgh Information — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 10:53:59 +0000

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland and the second largest city in Scotland after Glasgow, attracts 1 million overseas visitors a year, making it the second most visited tourist destination in the United Kingdom, after London. With Medieval and Georgian architecture, a large number of museums and libraries, plenty of art galleries and a series of festivals that run from the end of July until early September each year, with many pubs, clubs and restaurants, Edinburgh is one of the most picturesque cities in Europe. Edinburgh Airport is also a state of the art airport, recently renovated to meet the demands of the modern traveller.

Edinburgh

Located in the south-east of Scotland, Edinburgh lies on the east coast of the Central Belt, along the Firth of Forth, near the North Sea. The city houses the Scottish Parliament and it is divided into areas that generally encompass a park, a main local street, a high street and residential buildings. The historic centre of Edinburgh is divided into two by the broad green swath of Princes Street Gardens. The Old Town and New Town districts of Edinburgh were listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

The city is nicknamed Auld Reekie (Middle Scots for Old Smoky), because when buildings were heated by coal and wood fires, chimneys would spew thick columns of smoke into the air. It also earned the nickname Athens of the North.

Renowned as a windy city, Edinburgh has a maritime climate which is relatively mild despite its northerly latitude. Winters are especially mild and in summer temperatures are normally moderate.

In 2009, Edinburgh had a total resident population of 477,660. In the same year, the city was voted the “most desirable city in which to live in the UK”.

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A Guide To The Edinburgh Festival

Edinburgh — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 05:38:02 +0000

A Guide To The Edinburgh Festival

Taking place each August, the Edinburgh International Festival is the world’s biggest and most accepting arts festival, inviting performers of all disciplines to put on shows at a hundreds of venues across the Scottish capital. Unlike other arts events, there are no barriers to entry at the Edinburgh Festival – and associated festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe – meaning that anyone who can afford to put on a show is welcome. Those that can’t can take their show out into the streets instead.

Visiting Edinburgh at the height of festival season can sometimes be a daunting and dizzying experience, with promoters being eager to distribute flyers and attract you to their show over the thousands of other performances competing for your attention. The trip north doesn’t have to be a confusing experience when you take the time to check out your favourite acts beforehand in the festival brochure and on venue websites.

Not everyone arrives in Edinburgh prepared, of course, and part of the fun of the festival can be trying something new – as even if a show turns out to be a dud, it will at least make the good ones stand out even more. Many of the country’s best-loved comedy acts have started out in modest shows at the Fringe, so you never know if the young comedian you’re buying tickets for could be the next Stewart Lee or Frank Skinner. By heading to the festival towards the end of the month, you will also have the benefit of several weeks’ worth of reviews to draw on for guidance – unless you prefer the risky road to entertainment, of course.

Despite its reputation, visiting the Edinburgh Festival doesn’t have to be a strain on your wallet, especially with initiatives such as the Five Pound Fringe that aims to give newcomers and lesser-known performers a chance by charging less than half the standard ticket price for Fringe shows. The popular Free Fringe takes things further still, with performers putting on shows for love rather than money – though voluntary donations collected at the end could be hugely beneficial to helping the artists survive in that demanding month.

Other parts of your festival trip don’t have to break the bank either. Although many hoteliers will naturally push up their prices during the festival month, you can still find great rates on accommodation and trains to Edinburgh when booking ahead of your journey, rather than leaving it until the last minute.

A Guide To The Edinburgh Festival is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide

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Bristol Airport Parking is a post from: Edinburgh Airport Parking Information guide