The Staycation Series: 5 Reasons to Visit Edinburgh

Edinburgh may be lauded as Robert the Bruce country, and feature ancient castles and palatial palaces, but there’s a burgeoning contemporary social scene well worth discovering in the Scottish city.

Edinburgh’s budding tourists have access to one of Britain’s best-stocked natural larders, with the city flanked by the North Sea and the unspoilt Pentland Hills. The Scottish capital is the perfect blend of city and outdoor getaway.

Discover Edinburgh with us below.

The Witchery Restaurant, Edinburgh. Picture: Neil Hanna

Dine at a 16th-century Merchant’s House

Among some of the best restaurants to visit in Edinburgh, The Witchery by the Castle is located at the gates of Edinburgh Castle and is set within a beautifully restored Grade-1-listed 16th-century former merchants townhouse. Andrew Lloyd Webber once asked “Is this the prettiest restaurant ever?” and we are inclined to agree.

The restaurant features carved oak panelling, antique candlesticks and rich tapestries - the perfect setting for a romantic date. Scottish produce is a must, comprising the finest seafood, beef, lamb and game that the country has to offer.

Discover more at www.thewitchery.com

Discover the Scottish countryside

Majestic bird life, old tramways, sunken lanes and an 18th-century folly await budding nemophilists on the outskirts of Edinburgh at Pentland Hills. The park features woodlands rich with wildlife, golden meadows, wetlands and a riverside all linked by a series of waymarked walks.

There’s over 100km of routes in the Pentlands, so while it may be near the city it doesn’t take long until you’re completely immersed in the wild. There are lochs galore, an alpaca farm, burns, waterfalls, endless forests, moorland with grazing sheep and beautiful views over both the hills and back over Edinburgh.

For more information, visit www.pentlandhills.org

Stay in one of The oldest homes in Edinburgh

Rock House is one of Edinburgh's oldest and most prestigious homes and was built in 1756 for a merchant. An historic gem in the old quarter, the house spans three floors and oozes style and charm.

Period details feature inside the old walls, with open log fires and beautifully designed living areas that add a touch of timeless elegance.

Access is unrestricted across the grounds, which includes all individual units and a private garden area. From its secluded position at the foot of Calton Hill, it has an elevated terrace with wondrous panoramic views over the city.

A stay at Rock House is guaranteed to be as unforgettable as it is captivating.

Secure your space now at www.stayaltido.com

Explore a royal yacht

The Royal Yacht Britannia is one of Britain's most sought-after attractions connected to the monarchy. Over the years, the Queen has welcomed heads of state from around the globe aboard the vessel.

After more than 40 years serving the Royal Family, the 60-year-old yacht was sent to Leith, Edinburgh's port area, as the centrepiece of the Britannia Visitor Centre.

Once aboard, you'll learn about the history of this and other royal yachts as you traverse the ship's five main decks. Highlights include the Royal Apartments and bedrooms, the beautiful sun lounge, and the onboard Royal Deck Tea Room where you can stop for tea and cakes.

For those wanting to treat themselves with a luxury getaway, consider a stay aboard the former lighthouse ship, the ‘Fingal’, docked adjacent to the royal yacht.

To book your tour, visit www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk

Rub shoulders with Raphael, Monet and Van Gogh

Home to one of the best collections of fine art in the world, the National Galleries Scotland contains four glorious galleries - Scottish National Gallery, Modern One, Modern Two, and Scottish National Portrait Gallery.

Spend an hour strolling around the tranquil setting of the grounds and make your way across the galleries while taking in the sights of Raphael, Velázquez, Vermeer, Monet, Cézanne and Van Gogh.

For a nation of Scotland’s size, the collection is rightfully regarded as one of the very best in the world. Works on show include Raeburn’s much-loved ‘The Reverend Robert Walker Skating on Duddingston Loch’ or, as it has become known, the ‘Skating Minister’. Visit the interactive IT Gallery for a tour or take part in a life drawing class.

The Garden Café serves an array of sweet treats and coffees and is situated at the entrance of the garden, providing spectacular views of Princes Street Gardens.

Opening hours
From 6 May: Thursday-Saturday, 10am-5pm
Closed 25 and 26 December and open 12noon on 1 January.

Discover the gallery here: www.nationalgalleries.org