Details About Edinburgh

Destinations » Europe » British Isles » Edinburgh


Steeped in tradition and culture, Edinburgh enchants visitors with its medieval castles and green rolling hills.
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Attractions

Some of the city's greatest treasures can be found in Old Town along the Royal Mile between Edinburgh Palace, the city's oldest structure and Holyrood Palace, Queen Elizabeths Scottish residence.

Activities

Scottish National War Memorial - The Memorial commemorates some 100,000 Scots who died in World War II. Holyrood Abbey - Located next to Holyroodhouse Palace, the abbey was once the site for royal marriage ceremonies and the burial place of Scottish royalty. It was founded in 1128 by David I; according to legend he built it as a penance for hunting on a holy day. Until 1880 debtors and delinquents found refuge here once they had crossed the sanctuary line. St. Giles High Kirk - It is also known as St. Giles Cathedral. John Knox, leader of the Protestant Reformation in Scotland, preached his fiery sermons here from 1559 to his death in 1572. Built between the 14th and 15th centuries, the church was greatly altered in the 16th century. Its dominant feature is the crown-shaped spire. The colors of famous Scottish regiments decorate the interior. Royal Museum of Scotland - It is ranked among the finest of Britain’s comprehensive museums. Its exhibits range from prehistoric times to the space age; they encompass decorative arts of the world, archaeology, ethnography, natural history, geology, technology and other sciences. John Knox Museum - This 16th-century house was built by the famous preacher and theologian. The oak floors and ornately painted ceiling are original. Displays illustrate the building and development of the house from its beginning to the present. Scott Monument - Located in East Princes Street Gardens, it features a marble statue of the author at its base. Towering above is a 200-foot gothic spire adorned with characters from Scott’s novels and poems. Scottish Whisky Heritage Center - Located on the Castle Hill section of the Royal Mile, it has exhibits offering a lowdown on all aspects of Scotland’s national beverage. View a film showing the process of production and blending, or look in the shop which provides a good idea of the range and diversity of whisky with dozens of different brands for sale. St.Andrews - Known foremost as a mecca for golf enthusiasts, the town of St. Andrews offers visitors attractive alternatives to golfing. It is home to the legendary Old Course Hotel, with its famous Road Hole Grill. The distance to St. Andrews is 55 miles each way. A visit is possible by private car/van.

Shopping

The emphasis is on Scottish goods, especially knitwear and traditional tartans. Central Edinburgh is an enticing place for shopping. Look along Princes Street, the Waverley Market, the Royal Mile and around Grassmarket. The latter is known for antiques, arts and craft shops, and antiquarian booksellers.

Currency

The pound sterling (GBP) is valid in both England and Scotland, but Scottish banks also issue their own banknotes. These are generally accepted in England, but if problems do arise, most banks will exchange Scottish currency for pound sterling hassle-free. Traveler's checks are widely accepted in banks, and credit cards can be used in most places.

 
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