Exploring Edinburgh

As a Glasgow girl I adore my city but I also enjoy travelling through to Edinburgh and spending a few days in Scotland's beautiful capital. Edinburgh is a stark contrast to Glasgow- Glasgow is essentially an industrial city whereas Edinburgh has such wonderful architecture and lots of open spaces which are harder to find within Glasgow's maze of streets.

Upon arrival in Edinburgh city centre one of the first things I always notice is the imposing sight of Edinburgh Castle dominating the skyline from high above the city on an extinct volcano. The origins of the castle date back to 1130 and so much history has taken place within it's walls, including the birth of one of Mary Queen of Scots' children and it is even reported to be haunted by ghosts and phantoms of years gone by. I'm not sure I believe these tales but there are many ghost walks and tours in the city which might convince me otherwise!

Edinburgh Castle

In the middle of Princes Street lies the stunning monument to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott (I wrote my dissertation on his novels!). The monument features him seated in the centre with his beloved dog next to him. Visitors can climb the 287 steps to the top of the monument and enjoy stunning panoramic views over the whole city.

Walter Scott Monument

If you want to get a great view of the city and enjoy some fresh Scottish air then the best place to head is for a walk up Arthurs Seat. I've only walked part of the way up to Holyrood park and the remains of St. Anthony's Chapel. The views over the city and towards the Forth even from this point were incredible. One day I'll have more time to climb to the very top of Arthurs Seat, I'm determined.

The remains of St. Anthony's Chapel

View from St. Anthony's Chapel

View from St. Anthony's Chapel with Calton Hill in the distance

The remains of St. Anthony's Chapel date back as far as the early 15th Century and although exact origins are unknown it is likely that it had a tower which was around 40 feet high.

St Andrews Square lies at the east end of Edinburgh's George Street, just seconds from Princes Street, and is dominated by the Melville Monument and surrounded by lovely gardens which are a great place to relax in the summer.

Melville Monument, St Andrews Square

Whilst I was in Edinburgh there was a really interesting art exhibition 'Invisible Words' in St Andrews Square which is part of the Edinburgh International Science Festival.

The pictures were all images from the science world and some of them were so colourful and really fascinating.

I think this one was my favourite. Would you believe these are all bacteria contained within agar plates?

Just moments from St Andrews Square on George Street is one of my favourite eating and drinking spots in Edinburgh is The Dome. The Dome is a gorgeous converted bank which dates back to the mid 19th Century and is now an amazing bar, restaurant and meeting spot. You can get an amazing champagne afternoon tea which I definitely recommend.


The very first thing you notice when you step inside The Dome is the stunningly beautiful chandelier which dominates the entrance hall. Anyone who knows me will know I adore chandeliers and this is one of my favourites.

Chandelier in the main entrance hall

The Dome

The Dome which dominates the The Grill Room area where you can have lunch, afternoon tea, dinner or drinks is stunning. It is decorated in such an ornate manner that when I'm inside I simply can't stop staring up at it and admiring it.


Annnnnd there's even chandelier's in the bathrooms...!

Yes, okay, I took a picture of the bathroom chandelier.

I can't wait to get back through to Edinburgh and spend more time exploring this gorgeous city. Has anyone been before? What are your favourite places in the city?

Whilst I was in Edinburgh I had a complimentary stay at Haggis Hostels- an amazing hostel in the city centre. Check out my review of it here.