City Breaks in Edinburgh

Edinburgh presents a rather Gothic cityscape as it spreads out below its ancient Castle. Edinburgh is crammed with culture, filled with fun and festivity, sophistication but is full of history and mystery.

Edinburgh offers a combination that never fails to charm visitors to this city.

The first thing that catches the eye is the looming battlements of the castle, sitting atop sheer granite cliffs that can only be accessed from one steep ridge. Today the castle heads up the Royal Mile and a linear set of streets making up the 'New Town'. Tourists eagerly wander up and down the main street, Princess Street, all year round, browsing in the top quality stores and photographing the vista of the castle and the old town. When it comes to sightseeing, Edinburgh's attractions are largely based on historic stories and legends, from the churchyard where Greyfriar's Bobby, the terrier, refused to leave his master's grave, to the grand royal apartments of Holyrood House, where Mary Queen of Scots watched her husband kill her lover back in the 16th century.

Edinburgh oozes atmosphere, but never more so than during the summer months, when the vibrant Edinburgh Festival fills the city with drama, creativity and colourful visitors from around the world. Another occasion when Edinburgh pulls out all its stops is during the traditional Hogmanay New Year festival, when the jolly festivities are warmed by a great imbibing of Scottish malt whisky and ales pulled in the many local pubs.

Edinburgh is perhaps best summed up by one of its famous novelist's Robert Louis Stevenson, who described it as 'a profusion of eccentricities; a dream in masonry and living rock'. Edinburgh is ideal for a short city break with great accommodation and attractions.