The Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Jewel of Edinburgh after its Castle. Home now to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and former home of Mary Queen of Scots. It’s a wonderful insight into the life of the palace throughout both Queen’s life. No trip to Edinburgh is complete without this visit. Just don’t try and go when the Queen’s in town, it will be closed!
www.royal.gov.uk.
Hopetoun House
This fine Georgian mansion that lies just outside Edinburgh. Over 150 hectares of magnificent grounds, wonderful architecture and arts. The house has been the 'location' for many a famous film or two. Now, over 300 years old the interiors remain resplendent.
Open from 10 April till 28 September 10.30am to 5pm. Entry Adults £8.00 Child £4.25 under 5 free.
www.hopetounhouse.com
Gladstone’s Land
Home of Thomas Gladstone, a former merchant whose home today provides an authentic history of interior design of the 17th Century. It's on the Royal Mile not far from the Castle. An interesting history of the man and the house follows.
www.nts.org.uk
47b Lawnmarket EH1 2NT t: 0131 226 5856
Edinburgh Literary Pub Tours
Why: Spend an evening in a quaint Edinburgh Pub and listen to life of some of its famous authors, Robbie Burns, Robert Louise Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott. Select your preferred author, or event (go by bus or in a pub.
Tickets can be booked online below.
www.edinburghliterarypubtour.co.uk
Georgian House
A short but interesting visit where children can dress up in Georgian costumes, (great picture op). Observe life of the servants to the rich owners of these Georgian mansions. The house is filled with treasures and furniture authentic to the New Town House of the late 18th and early 19th century.
www.nts.org.uk
7 Charlotte Square EH2 4DR t:44 131 225 2160
St Giles Cathedral
Why: A beautiful and historic parish with wonderful stained glass windows and organs. St Giles was a 7th century hermit (and, later an abbot) who lived in France, became the patron of both town and church and created ancient ties between Scotland and France.
Costs: Visitors are invited to make a donation of £3.00 per person.
www.stgilescathedral.org.uk
High St EH1 1RE t: 44 131 225 436
A day of Modern art - Dean Gallery
This art space is opposite the Modern Art Gallery in lush Parkland. Allow a 15 minute walk if coming from Princess Street. Both galleries are worth visting. Numerous permanent and temporary exhibitions. Tickets £6 (£4).
Wilhelmina Barns-Graham, John Bellany, Alan Davie and Anne Redpath - 4th October 2008 to 31st January 2009.
www.nationalgalleries.org
Edinburgh Castle
You are not going to miss it, this wonderful castle perched high above volcanic rock and with views out of the Firth of Forth. Must see: 'Scottish Crown Jewels' and the tiny St. Margaret's Chapel. At one o'clock be prepared for the rather loud firing of the gun.
Summer: 1 April - 30 September, Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun, 9.30 am to 6.00 pm
Winter: 1 October - 31 March , Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun, 9.30 am to 5.00 pm
Admissions: Adult £10.00 - £12.00
Child £5.00 - £6.00 Concessions £7.00 - £9.50
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk