Edinburgh is a young or ancient city. City of Edinburgh - interesting facts and information. Sports and recreation

Edinburgh is a city that carefully preserves its ancient history. This is a city where the Scottish flavor is cultivated. A city where one festival follows another. This is a city worth visiting!

General information

Edinburgh is located on south coast Firth of Forth (North Sea) in eastern Scotland and is the most visited city in the British Isles after London. The historical part of Edinburgh - the Old and New Towns - were included in 1995 by UNESCO in the List of World Heritage Sites.

The first mention of settlements on the site of modern Edinburgh dates back to the 6th century. The rapid development of the city falls on the XII century, which was facilitated by the relocation of the royal court here from Dunfermline.

Edinburgh harmoniously fits into the landscape of volcanic origin: just look at how Edinburgh Castle merges with the rock on which it is erected, as if growing out of it.

Weather in Edinburgh

The climate in Edinburgh, as in all of Scotland, is very mild, without large temperature fluctuations. In winter, the temperature is very rarely below zero, and in summer, as a rule, around +23 ° C - the proximity of the sea affects. However, in Edinburgh you can not do without an umbrella. Showers happen here daily, and even several times a day.

Traditionally, the best time to visit Edinburgh is from May to October. But even in November-February, by Russian standards, the weather here is quite comfortable.

Transport in Edinburgh

The most convenient way to get to Edinburgh from London is by train. Travel time is about five hours. The trip will be a pleasure: the trains are comfortable, and pacifying landscapes are floating outside the window. A bus trip will cost less, but it will take longer - about nine hours.

From public transport buses run around Edinburgh and the surrounding area, you can use taxi services. The bus fare for an adult is £1.2, you can buy a one-day pass for an unlimited number of trips for £3. The cost of a taxi ride through the city center will cost an average of five pounds.

In addition to the usual public transport in the city, there are special sightseeing buses. A purchased ticket gives you the opportunity to move around on a "come-and-go" basis at any stop within the excursion route. The buses are double-decker, the upper deck is open for the convenience of photo and video shooting.

Districts of Edinburgh

The Old Town area is the most visited place with buildings from the Middle Ages, it is here that Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace with the Royal Mile connecting them are located.

The New Town district is the "younger" part of the city, built up in the 18th century. There are many different kinds of shops here.

The Stockbridge area and the Canonmills area are adjacent to the new town. This is where the Royal Botanic Gardens are located.

The Edinburgh/East area is remarkable for being home to the medieval village of Duddingston and Portobello Beach.

The Edinburgh/South area is home to the famous Roslyn Chapel and a great variety of pubs.

In the west of Edinburgh (Edinburgh/West area) are the largest stadium in Scotland "Murrayfield" and the Edinburgh Zoo.

Sights of Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle is rightfully considered the main attraction of the city. The castle is built on a 133-meter rock of volcanic origin and, as it were, crowns the city. It is visible from everywhere. The castle was built and rebuilt for more than one century, it was used as a fortress, as a royal residence, as a barracks and even as a prison. The walls and towers offer a magnificent view of the city and its surroundings. The castle houses a museum reflecting the history of Scotland. At the main gate there is an esplanade - a square for holding military parades, where the festival of Tatu military bands is held annually.

The Whiskey Center and the Weaving Center are just behind the Esplanade Edinburgh castle. Really interesting! They will tell and show how whiskey is made and how the famous Scottish fabrics are woven into a cage.

Holyrood House Palace was built under King James I at the end of the 15th century on the site of an even more ancient abbey and is famous for the fact that Queen Mary Stuart lived here. Now Holyrood Palace is the official residence of the British Crown, and there is also a museum here. Museum visitors will see jewelry, antique, well-preserved furniture, portraits of the kings of Scotland.

The Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. Essentially, this is a museum open sky a little more than a mile long: all the buildings of the Middle Ages are carefully preserved. Souvenir shops and street musicians with bagpipes, dressed from head to toe in national Scottish costumes, add a special touch to the street.

Museum of Childhood - located on the Royal Mile. The museum will interest both adults and children: adults will learn how it was customary to dress, teach and develop children in different eras, and children will be happy to look at toys from different times collected from all over the world.

National Gallery located in the city center, under Edinburgh Castle. A visit to the gallery is just a feast for lovers of fine art; paintings by Rembrandt, El Greco, Rubens, Titian, Van Dyck, Monet, Cezanne and many other famous artists are exhibited here.

The Royal Museum, located in the old city, has 36 galleries, where exhibits are presented, collected from different parts of the world and capable of surprising even the most sophisticated tourist.

Edinburgh Zoo will delight visitors with beautiful scenery, the opportunity to feed the animals and its hit: a pool with a colony of penguins. There is a suspension bridge over the pool, and the walls of the pool itself are transparent so that visitors can see the feathered abodes in the best way.

Roslyn Chapel is a majestic Gothic church covered with romantic legends about the treasures of the Templars and the mysteries of the Holy Grail.

St. Giles Cathedral is an impressive temple, bizarre and asymmetrical. And all because it was founded in the XIV century, it was repeatedly completed and rebuilt. In the history of the cathedral, there was also an unsuccessful attempt to turn it into a "Scottish Westminster Abbey." The interior of the cathedral is impressive with carvings and wonderful stained glass windows.

The Royal Botanic Garden surprises visitors with dinosaur age trees, swamp orchids and a collection of azaleas. In the Palm Greenhouse, the giant Victoria Amazonian water lily is especially popular with tourists. Heather garden, Rocky garden with alpine plants, Chinese slope - and this is far from full list all the beauties of the Botanical Garden in Edinburgh! Entrance to the Garden is free, the fee is charged only for visiting the greenhouses.

The Royal Yacht Britannia is an opportunity to look into places where access was previously only possible for royalty and their high-ranking guests. The yacht served the royal family for about 40 years, and now it is laid up in the port and turned into a museum.

The Scottish Parliament building is open to the public. You can go to the meeting room even during the debate!

Holidays in Edinburgh

Festivals and celebrations take place in Edinburgh all year round. The festive and festival relay starts with the Scottish New Year's holiday Hogmanay, followed by a festival of traditional Scottish culture. In March, lovers of harp music gather in Edinburgh, and in April the International Science Festival takes place. At the same time, the International Children's Theater Festival and the festival of alternative music starts, then participants of the Fringe music and theater festival of street art gather in Edinburgh. And on April 30, the Holiday of the meeting of summer is celebrated.

In August, on the parade ground of Edinburgh Castle, an annual International Festival military bands. An unforgettable spectacle featuring military bands from all over the world. Held in Edinburgh and the International Book Festival, which is becoming increasingly popular.

And the main festival event of the year is the International Arts Festival in Edinburgh. This event is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest and most significant arts festival in the world. This event is so interesting and large-scale, it attracts so many participants and spectators that at this time the population in Edinburgh increases to one and a half million people!

Edinburgh Restaurants

Most big variety Edinburgh's pubs are concentrated on Rose Street, many of them recreating 300-year-old interiors. Such, for example, is the White Heart pub.

It is very interesting to look into the Sheep Heid Inn pub, which was opened in 1360 and is officially considered the oldest pub in Scotland.
Seafood lovers will appreciate the Mussel Inn pub on Rose Street.
From the restaurants, we can recommend Haldanes - a Scottish cuisine restaurant, Dirty Dick's - a restaurant for fans of beer and everything that is served to it, and a cozy, popular place - The Atrium.

If you want to try Scottish cuisine, then in the restaurant you can order "haggis" - a dish of chopped offal with oatmeal, onions and spices, potatoes with herring, venison, Scottish salmon and in every possible way cooked oatmeal: cereals, tortillas, desserts.

Shopping in Edinburgh

As souvenirs, tourists willingly buy Scottish blankets and cashmere, Scottish traditional cookies, soft toys and figurines in Scottish costumes, bagpipes, and, of course, whiskey in Edinburgh. Souvenirs are sold in large quantities in souvenir shops on Princess Street or on the Royal Mile.

The largest shopping center in Edinburgh - Princess Mall is located in the city center next to the bus and railway stations. There is a huge variety of goods here: from designer clothes to original postcards.

Edinburgh Hotels

Despite the fact that Edinburgh is a big city, it is very cozy and captivates its guests from the first minutes of getting to know it. Edinburgh always meets the expectations of tourists, and sometimes exceeds them.

The capital of Scotland is Edinburgh - old City with stone buildings, ancient buildings and a castle on a rock in the very center - the most popular in Scotland tourist place. The population of the city is 430 thousand people, but this figure increases greatly during the peak season, especially in mid-August, when the Edinburgh Arts Festival takes place - the largest cultural event in. The city center consists of two parts. Castle on the rock - center medieval city where representatives of the noble class and their servants lived for centuries.

The cramped Old City always smelled bad, as sewage was thrown onto the streets right out of the windows, and diseases were common. Until recently, there were slums here. A new city began to be built from the end of the 1770s to the north of the castle. Wealthy citizens speculated on the sale of this land and used the services of the best architects during construction. The result was a marvelous Georgian city, largely preserved to this day.

Arrival, accommodation and meals in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Airport is 7 miles west of the city centre, with buses running 24/7 to the city. Trains arrive at Waverley station in the center, reach New Town and Princes street in the northern part, Old Town and the castle in the southern part. The bus station is located on Saint Andrew Square, north of Princes street. The city center is best explored on foot. There are many buses where you can buy day cards (price in peak season is 2.50 pounds sterling, at other times 1.80). The main tour desk is located on Princes street 3, on the top level of the Princes Mall.

The travel agency has a complete list of hotels where you can pay 3 pounds sterling. At the peak of the season, central hotels fill up quickly, boarding houses are easier to get to, prices here start from 15 pounds per person. It is also possible to live in student accommodation during the summer, although they are not cheap: try your luck at Napier University or Pollock Hall, Edinburgh University. Campsites are located on the outskirts. If you intend to be here during the festival (from early August to early September), accommodation should be booked in advance.

• Hotels and guesthouses in Edinburgh

1). Pension Ardenlee Guest House– Friendly non-smoking guest house near the Royal Botanic Gardens with spacious rooms. Location: 9 Eyre Place;

2). Guest Bar Java– Simple and bright rooms above one of the most trendy bars in Leith. The bar is open until late. Location: 48-50 Constitution street, Leith;

3). Pension Cluaran House– Good guesthouse (non-smoking) near Bruntsfield, hearty breakfasts. Location: 47 Leamington Terrace, Viewforth;

4). Pension The Greenhouse– Vegetarian food, relaxed atmosphere. Location: 14 Hartington Gardens, Viewforth;

5). Pension International Guest House– One of the best guesthouses in Southside with comfortable, well-equipped rooms. Location: 37 Mayfield Gardens, Mayfield;

6). Pension Six Mary's Place– Non-smoking guesthouse with excellent homemade vegetarian food. Location: Raeburn Place;

7). Pension Stuart House– A cozy and bright Georgian house in the Broughton area (non-smoking). Location: 12 East Claremont street;

8). Teviotdale Hotel– Quiet, non-smoking hotel, excellent facilities, reasonable prices. Huge portions of homemade breakfasts. Location: 53 Grange Loan, Grange.

• Hostels in Edinburgh

1). Argyle Hostel“Quiet youth hostel with small bedrooms and a dozen double rooms. Well located - the student district of Marchmont. Location: 14 Argyle Place, Marchmont;

2). Brodies Hostel– A cozy place in the old town, but small. Location: 12 High street, Old Town;

3). Bruntsfield Hostel- Large HI hostel a mile south of Princes street. Location: 7 Bruntsfield Crescent, Bruntsfield;

4). Castle Rock Hostel– Lively hostel with 200 beds next to the castle ramparts. Location: 15 Johnston Terrace, Old Town;

5). Edinburgh Backpackers Hostel- A large hostel in the center on the street near the Royal Mile. Location: 65 Cockburn street, Old Town;

6). Eglinton Hostel– One of the two HI hostels is located closer to the center (west). Location: 18 Eglinton Crescent, Haymarket;

7). High Street Hostel– A large hostel in a 16th-century building by the Royal Mile. Location: 8 Blackfriars street, Old Town;

8). Royal Mile Backpackers Hostel– A small hostel, popular along with the youth hostel High Street Hostel. Location: 105 High street, Old Town;

9). Saint Christopher's Inn Hostel– The first mega-hostel in the city, 110 beds, smaller rooms and bedrooms. Location: 9-13 Market street, Old Town.

• Campsites in Edinburgh

1). Camping Edinburgh Caravan Club – A good place from the waterfront in the northwestern suburbs, half an hour from the center by bus 28. Location: Marine Drive, Silverknowes;

2). Campsite 38 Mortonhall Gate– Good location 5 miles south of downtown near Braid Hills, bus 11 (Captain’s road) or #31 from downtown. Closed from January to March. Location: Frogston road.

Sights of Edinburgh (Scotland)

• Old town Edinburgh

The central thoroughfare of the Old City - the paved Royal Mile (Royal Mile) - includes Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High street, Canongate and stretches from the castle (Castle) to the palace of Holyroodhouse (Holyroodhouse). Perhaps the castle arose on the site of a fortified settlement of the Iron Age, on a rock that provided it with three-sided protection. Here is the chapel of St. Margaret - this is apparently the most old building in the city where the treasures of the Scottish crown and ancient stone Fate, which served for the coronation of Scottish kings, which was returned in 1996 after a seven hundred year stay in. The castle houses a large military museum, and during the festival, a parade of troops (Military Tattoo) takes place on the esplanade. A cannon shoots from the battlements of the castle all year round at 13.00 (except Sundays).

Going down the esplanade from the castle hill, you will pass by Historic center Scotch Whiskey Heritage Center (daily 10.00-18.00, longer opening hours in summer), where this national drink of the Scots is told in an entertaining way. A little further away is the Gothic church, the so-called Center (The Hub) (daily from 9.30 until late, admission is free) - the headquarters of the Edinburgh Festival with a good cafe-bistro, bookstore and various exhibitions. Away, away from Lawnmarket (Lawnmarket) in the house of Lady Stair is the writers' museum (Monday-Saturday 10.00-17.00, during the festival also on Sundays 14.00-17.00, admission is free), the exhibition of which is dedicated to the work of Walter Scott, Robert Burns and R. L. Stevenson.

At Lawnmarket, the George IV Bridge leads south from Royal Mile to Chambers street, where the Museum of Scotland (Monday-Saturday 10.00-17.00, Tuesdays until 20.00, Sundays 12.00-17.00, admission is free) is located in a modern sandstone building. Relics are kept here - from the creations of the Celts to the rarities of the 20th century. Next door is the Royal Museum (same opening hours) - a Victorian building with a rich collection of colonial rarities. To the south of here is the largest university in Scotland, Edinburgh University, with over 15,000 students.

You need to go back along High street to get to Parliament Square, dominated by the High Kirk of Saint Giles (daily 9.00-17.00/19.00), notable for its beautiful crowned spire. Inside it is the Thistle Chapel (the thistle is the emblem of Scotland) from 1911 with marvelous pseudo-Gothic wooden carvings. Outside, at the western doors, a heart (Heart of Midlothian) is laid out in cobblestones, where passers-by should spit for good luck. On the south side of Parliament Square is a neoclassical courthouse, including the 17th century Parliament House, where the Scottish Parliament met until the Anglo-Scottish Treaty of 1707. On this section of the Royal Mile begins a fascinating - "ghostly" route through the streets and underground streets. Information can be obtained from street announcements or Mercat Tours and Witchery Tours.

Canongate - the last part of the Royal Mile - begins with the medieval house of John Knox (John Knox's House). This is the dwelling of an ardent Calvinist preacher with poor furnishings, giving an idea of ​​​​the layout of the houses of the Old City. On the last stretch of the Canongate is the new Scottish Parliament building, an expensive building, for example modern architecture. It contrasts with the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official royal residence of the 17th century. In the absence of members of the royal family, the public has access to luxurious halls and apartments. The palace overlooks Holyrood Park - untouched corner in the middle of the city, 650 acres, you can walk beautifully through the beautiful places of Salisbury Crags and Arthur's Seat. Here, from the cliff, a magnificent view of the city and the surrounding area opens up to the Firth of Forth.

• New City of Edinburgh

The Old and New Towns are separated by a park on Princes street on the north side of the street with a shopping area and chain stores. The classical sandstone building is occupied by the National Gallery of Scotland (daily 10.00-17.00, on Thursdays until 19.00, admission is free). This is one of the best collections of European art, which includes works by prominent European masters: Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, Rembrandt, Vermeer, Degas, Gauguin and Van Gogh. It is worth looking at the "Reverend Robert Walker Skating" by G. Raeburn, which is on all postcards.

To the east of the museum rises the Gothic spire of the monument to Walter Scott. It can be climbed on the inside spiral staircase and admire the panorama of the city and the mountainous surroundings. Close by is George street, where trendy shops are popping up fast, and Charlotte Square at its western end is the prettiest in the New Town. To the north is the wide avenue of Queen street, at the eastern end of which is the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. This red sandstone building is reminiscent of the Doge's Palace in Venice. Inside you can see portraits of such famous people like Bonnie Prince Charlie, Queen Mary Stuart and contemporaries Sean Connery and Alex Ferguson.

On Waterloo Place (continuation of Princes street) you can go to Calton Hill, towering over the New Town. It overlooks the city and neoclassical buildings, including the National Monument at the very top. Its construction began in 1822, for the image was taken Athenian Parthenon, but funds quickly ran out after the erection of twelve massive columns, this building was nicknamed "the shame of Edinburgh".

In the northwestern part of the New Town, on the outskirts of Stockbridge, there is a residential area that is distinguished by its bohemian nature, the old buildings called Dean Village are especially noteworthy. From here, Belford road leads to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and the Dean Gallery (daily 10.00-17.00, Thursdays until 19.00, admission is free). In these galleries, you can trace all the trends in the development of art of the 20th century, which are reflected in the work of Matisse, Picasso, Giacometti, Mondrian, contemporary Scottish artists (“colorists”) and the sculptor Sir Eduardo Paolozzi. All of the above attractions can be seen during.

Food, drink and entertainment in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has many restaurants and bistros, and the cafes here are some of the most the best places in the city: here you can eat, drink coffee and strong drinks, sometimes during the festival they host exhibitions and other events. Many of the city's bars and pubs are the best in the country, there is often live music and you can easily find places open after midnight. The city has a thriving nightlife, and establishments change names and locations at such a rate that the only way to find out about them is to check out the full bi-weekly list on The List. Traverse on Cambridge street 10 is considered the best theater in the city, and The Filmhouse, an excellent art-house cinema, is located nearby on Lothian road 88.

• Cafes and restaurants in Edinburgh

1). Cafe Mediterraneo– This place with a small dining room serves Italian delicacies at reasonable prices. Location: 73 Broughton street;

2). Elephant House Cafe– A popular cafe near the university. Location: 21 George IV Bridge;

3). Cafe Favorit– Modern cafe, open until late. Location: Teviot place and 30-32 Leven street, Bruntsfield;

4). Henderson's Restaurant– Self-service restaurant, good prices for vegetarian dishes, sometimes live music. Location: 94 Hanover street;

5). Restaurant Kalpna– Indian vegetarian dishes: great prices, excellent food. Location: 2 Saint Patrick Square;

6). Cafe Lost Sock Diner– Burgers and other food at low prices. Location: 11 East London street, Broughton;

7). Mamma's American Pizza Company– Good pizza and nice atmosphere at the Grassmarket place. Location: 30 Grassmarket;

8). Mussel Inn“At the establishment of two Scottish fishermen, a kilo of mussels and a basket of fish cost less than £10. Location: 61-65 Rose street;

9). The Outsider Restaurant– Stylish restaurant in the Old Town with good food. Location: 15-16 George IV Bridge;

10). Cafe Le Sept– A long-standing French cafe serving delicious pancakes and fish dishes. Location: 7 Old Fishmarket Close;

11). Cafe Susie's Diner– A popular student vegetarian cafe. Location: 51 West Nicolson street.

• Pubs and bars in Edinburgh

1). Bar City– Stylish establishment, which is very popular among the club public. Location: 19 Blair street;

2). Bar Garibaldi's- Mexican bar in the basement, organic food, cocktails, dance floor. Location: 97-а Hanover street;

3). Bar Human Be-In– Trendy student bar with great food. Location: 2-8 West Crosscauseway;

4). Pub Last Drop Tavern- A late-night student pub. Location: 74 Grassmarket;

5). Pub Malt Shovel– Jazz in the evenings, good beer and a large selection of malt whiskeys. Location: 11 Cockburn street;

6). Bar The Outhouse– Club bar with beer garden. Location: 12-a Broughton street Lane.

• Live music venues and clubs in Edinburgh

1). Cabaret Voltaire- Beat and live music. Location: 36-38 Blair street;

2). Club Ego– A popular club with a variety of music (from house to swing). Location: 14 Picardy Place;

3). Liquid Room– A popular place with a variety of music. Location: 9-s Victoria street;

4). Massa Club– Trendy club with a variety of music (house-pop). Location: 36-39 Market street;

5). Royal Oak- An institution with Scottish folk music. Location: Infirmary street;

6). Institution Venue- A variety of club evenings, performances of new ensembles. Location: 17-21 Calton road;

7). Whistlebinkies- Rock and folk in a nightclub. Location: 4-6 South Bridge.

In contact with

Edinburgh is a city richest history and stunning architectural heritage. Over 4,500 buildings in Edinburgh are on the World Heritage List. The contrast of Edinburgh is the contrast of time: the Old Town is the epitome of medieval cityscapes with the main pearl - Edinburgh Castle, and the New Town, preserved in the neoclassical style of the 18th century.

Edinburgh attracts millions of tourists from all over the world with its unusual contrast and unique character. To visit the city, to be in its atmosphere, to walk along the cobbled streets with wonderful architecture, to travel back in time several centuries ago and see the history of the city with your own eyes is quite real, you just need to plan a tour to Scotland.

HISTORY OF EDINBURGH

The history of the city begins in the 6th century. It is known that even then a small wooden church was built here, which testifies to the baptism of the Celts - local residents. In the same century, the Celtic territories were conquered by the Anglo-Saxons, who began to call the local church in their own way - Edin-burg (Edin-burh), which meant "Church of Edin."

Edinburgh was first mentioned in written sources in 1124, when the royal court was moved to Edinburgh and King David gave the order to build a church in the vicinity. The order was executed, the Church of the Holy Rood was built. With the emergence of a new church, the city began to grow and develop. In the XIII century, the Scottish Parliament appeared, which accompanied Edinburgh to receive the official status of the capital of Scotland.

The name "Edinburgh", which we are accustomed to mention today, became official only in the XIV, given that locality existed for 7 centuries. Sometimes the city was mentioned in distorted versions of the name Edynburgh and Edynburghe.

Since 1450, Edinburgh has been surrounded by a high stone wall - a defensive fortress, today this part is known as the Old City.

Since 1583, after the opening of the university in the city, Edinburgh has become a center of educational and professional development. Large enterprises began to open, and in 1695 the National Bank of Scotland was founded. At the end of the 18th century, the population of the city began to grow rapidly and reached 35,000 people. In order to solve the housing problem, the parliament decided to settle the rich residents on the upper floors of buildings, and the poor on the lower levels. Wealthy residents did not like such conditions and many of them were forced to leave for London. The Scottish government was interested in attracting wealthy people back to Edinburgh, and a competition was organized among architects to build a new area. The design competition was won by the architect James Craig, it was his idea that was embodied in the creation of the New City, which we can admire today.

In 1822, King George IV visited Edinburgh and was delighted with the neoclassical style of the New City, which he called the Athens of the North.

During the Victorian era, during the industrial revolution, the city was filled with smoke from steam engines. That is why Edinburgh got another nickname - "Old Ricky".

Today, Edinburgh combines modernity and tradition: next to the Baroque buildings, you can find the Art Nouveau building. The mood of Edinburgh streets, their individuality in a combination of past and present.

ATTRACTIONS

Architecture:

Edinburgh Castle is perhaps the most famous among all the other castles in Scotland. The castle was built during the Middle Ages. The oldest part of the castle is the Margaret Chapel (XII century). Until recently, the castle was at the disposal of the Ministry of Defense. Now it is the main tourist attraction of the city.

Holyrood Palace is currently the royal residence. During official visits, the Queen stays in this palace. In the free time from visiting members of the royal family, the palace is open to everyone.

Cathedral of Saint Giles. Previously, there was a church on the site of the cathedral, which in 1385 was burned by the British. The columns in the center of St. Giles' Cathedral supporting the tower are the only thing left of the church, burned down in the XIV.

Museums and exhibitions

The Scottish Whiskey Heritage Center is located near Edinburgh Castle. All those who are interested in the process of preparing a traditional Scottish drink should visit this center.

The Museum of Scotland is a relatively new attraction located in the historic Old City. The museum contains a national gallery - the whole history of Scotland: its land, outstanding personalities and their achievements. Entrance to this museum is free.

Museum of Childhood. This museum has a wonderful collection of costumes, houses, toys from the time of Queen Victoria. Visiting the Museum of Childhood will be interesting for both children and adults.

The National Gallery of Scotland is undoubtedly one of the best galleries in all of the UK. This gallery contains works by such European artists as Rembrandt, Tintoretto, Claude Lorrain, Titian, Reynolds, Gainsborough, Chardin, Canova and many others.

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. Artistic works of such masters as Picasso, Matisse, Braque, Dellani and others are presented in this gallery.

Edinburgh Zoo, located in a hilly park, ten minutes from the city center, was opened in 1913. This zoo is famous for having the largest number of penguins on its territory. They can be observed from the suspension bridge, which is located directly above their pool, or through its glass walls.

Universities

Edinburgh University is the largest university educational institution Scotland, founded in 1583. Among the research and training centers in Scotland, it takes 1st place. Moreover, it is among the leading research institutes in the United Kingdom.

Sport

In the Scottish Football Premier League, 2 clubs represent the city of Edinburgh: Hibernian and Heart of Midlothian, whose home arenas are Easter Road and Tynecastle, respectively.

Climate

The climate in Edinburgh is relatively mild - temperate maritime. In the capital of Scotland, winters are quite warm, the temperature rarely drops below 0°C. Summer temperatures in Edinburgh usually do not exceed 23°C.

EDINBURGH CITY

The center of Edinburgh is the busiest place in the city, which is a combination of trade and cultural and historical attractions. Here you can get a bird's eye view of Edinburgh by climbing the 287 steps to the Scott Monument. To see the world-famous works of art, it is worth visiting the National Scottish Gallery, which is also located in the center of Edinburgh.

The center of Edinburgh is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Its elegant streets stand out against the dramatic silhouette of the castle. Princes Street, one of the streets of the city, offers visitors to shop in modern shopping centers with a wide selection of designer items. Princes Street Gardens is a delightful spectacle with an ice arena and lots of lights on Christmas Eve. George Street is famous for its luxurious collection of fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, stylish pubs, restaurants and clubs.

GRASSMARKET.

In the Middle Ages, the Grasmarket was a site where public executions took place; today, students and tourists like to spend their free time here. Like many streets in Edinburgh, medieval architecture has been preserved here and there is a beautiful view of Edinburgh Castle.

Although executions stopped here in 1784, some Grasmarket pubs have continued to operate since then, and are filled with live music: Last Straw (“Last straw”), Maggie Dickson, The White Hart Inn even boasts that a poet was its regular regular. Robert Burns.

Grasmarket will surprise fans of vintage items, antiques and unusual accessories presented for sale in the local mini-shops.

AIRPORT TRANSPORT

Airport:

Edinburgh Airport is located 11 kilometers west of the city. The city center can be reached by the following modes of transport:

Buses

Trip duration: from half an hour to 45 minutes.

Cars with a driver

A large number of companies provide cars with a driver to ensure a comfortable transfer of passengers from the airport to the hotel.

Car rent

At the airport, you can use the services of some car rental companies.

>Railway transport

Every day 16 trains arrive at Waverley Station (Edinburgh) from King's Cross Station (London).

The duration of the trip is about 4.5 hours.

At Haymarket railway station (Edinburgh), which is a 5-minute journey from Waverley station, trains arrive from Glasgow.

Public transport

Buses

Lothian Regional Transport buses.

The price of a Freedom Ticket is approximately £2. It gives the right to an unlimited number of trips on the aforementioned mode of transport within one day.

The Tourist Card is valid from 2 to 13 days.
Cost: £5 for 2 days; 1.5 pounds for each subsequent additional day.
They can be purchased at 27 Hanover Street, tel.: 0131/555-6363.

Buses from Scottish Citylink Coaches, National Express (bus station on Buchanan Street, Killermont St.).

The buses of these companies connect Edinburgh with London.
Trip duration: about 8 hours
Ticket price: from 80 to 100 pounds for a one-way trip. It is advisable to reserve tickets.

Buses from Edinburgh arrive at such London stations as: Victoria, Gloucester Road Coach Station (West London).

Bus tours around Edinburgh and its environs are offered by the following companies: S.M.T., Eastern Scottish, Lowland Scottish, Midland Scottish.

Edinburgh is an ancient bastion shrouded in mist and covered in legends. It has repeatedly become the site of grandiose historical events. The memory of the legendary fighter for independence William Wallace, the “braveheart”, is still preserved here, images of the beautiful knightly novel “Ivanhoe” live in harsh castles, and the stone Walter Scott thoughtfully leafing through the book against the backdrop of Gothic domes.

The unbroken spirit of Edinburgh grows stronger in the piercing melodies of the Scottish bagpipes and makes the traveler plunge deeper into the layer of time. Through the centuries, outstanding Scots look at the tourist in the National Portrait Gallery, the ruins of Holyrood Abbey are silent witnesses of the former power of the church, and the walls of Edinburgh Castle still remember the last Scottish monarch.

The best hotels and hostels at affordable prices.

from 500 rubles/day

What to see and where to go in Edinburgh?

The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.

The Royal Mile is the collective name for several streets located in the center of the Scottish capital. Their total length is approximately 1800 meters, which corresponds to the size of a Scottish mile. Here is concentrated a large number of attractions. The mile starts at Edinburgh Castle Square, passes through High Street and Lawn Market, and ends at Holyrood Palace.

The ancient residence of the Scottish monarchs, which is mentioned in documents from the XI-XII centuries. As a result of many years of war with England, the fortress was destroyed more than once, after which it was rebuilt again. In the 15th century, the residence was moved to Holyrood Palace, and Edinburgh Castle began to be used as a prison. In the 17th century, by order of the English monarch Charles II, an arsenal was placed in the fortress. It has been open to visitors since the 19th century.

The official residence of the British monarchs in Scotland. The palace was erected in the 15th century under the Scottish rulers, later it was rebuilt under the English monarchs, since Scotland lost its independence. By the beginning of the 18th century, the building fell into disrepair, only under George IV they took up its restoration. From the 20s. XX century, Holyrood Palace becomes the residence where official events are held.

The abbey was built in the XII century under the monarch David I. Several Scottish rulers were crowned here. David II, James II and James V are also buried on the territory of the abbey. In the 16th century, as a result of the spread of the ideas of the Reformation, the monastery ceased to support the Catholic tradition and adopted a new doctrine. In the XVIII century, the facade of the main building collapsed, and they did not restore it. Now the complex of ruins is a protected historical monument.

Early 15th century castle, believed to have been built by one of the Craigmillar barons. The fortress experienced several major expansions in the 16th century. Queen Mary Stuart has repeatedly stayed in the castle. During the 18th and 19th centuries The building gradually fell into disrepair. In the middle of the 20th century, it passed to the state, after which some of the premises were put in order and opened to tourists.

An underground street within the Royal Mile, fanned by numerous legends. One of them says that during the plague epidemic all the infected were brought here, which is why a “city of the dead” was formed on the territory of the street and adjacent quarters. In some house, even a little girl with the plague was walled up alive. Dead End Mary King was underground due to the construction in the XVIII century of a new building for the city authorities. In 2003 the street complex was excavated and opened to tourists.

The Scottish Parliament ceased to exist at the beginning of the 18th century, when the union of England and Scotland was announced. For almost 300 years, local patriots have demanded the restoration of the national assembly. In 1997 a referendum was held and the Scottish Parliament was convened again. The new building for the revived legislative body was erected according to the project of the Catalan E. Miralles.

Residential building of the XVIII-XIX centuries, located on Charlotte Square Street. The building was designed by architect J. Craig in the best traditions of Georgian architecture. From the middle of the 18th century, there was so little space in the capital of Scotland that it was decided to build a New Town next to the old Edinburgh. The Georgian House is one of the first structures erected as a result of the expansion of the capital of Scotland.

The cathedral is the main temple of the Presbyterian Church of Scotland, it was named after the patron saint of lepers and the maimed - St. Giles (St. Egidius). The building was erected in the XIV century. The temple is notable for its massive and gloomy architecture, but the graceful Victorian stained-glass windows that adorn the main facade save the situation. Inside the cathedral is the Thistle Chapel, where initiation into members of the order of the same name takes place.

The temple is within the Royal Mile. It was erected at the beginning of the 17th century on the site of a Franciscan monastery. Greyfriars Kirk was the first church in Edinburgh built after the victory of the ideas of the Reformation. At the temple there is a cemetery, where the earliest burials began in the 16th century during the existence of a Catholic abbey. The Church is the most old building outside of Old Edinburgh.

The collection was formed as a result of the merger of the Royal Museum and the Museum of Antiquities of Scotland. The exposition is located on the territory of two buildings, one was built in 1998, the other is an example of Victorian architecture of the 19th century. The museum exhibits archaeological finds, items belonging to the heritage of national and world culture, natural science exhibits and much more.

An art gallery where a collection of paintings, drawings and sculptures from the Renaissance to the beginning of the 20th century is stored and exhibited. The museum building is located near the Royal Academy of Sciences, it was built in the classical style. In addition to the exhibition halls, on the territory of the National Gallery there is a library with archival documents and valuable books of the 13th-19th centuries.

The basis of the exposition of the National Portrait Gallery was the private collection of the Earl of Buchan, who collected portraits of famous Scots. The museum was organized at the end of the 19th century at the expense of the local philanthropist J. Ritchie. The neo-Gothic building for the gallery was designed by R. Anderson. The collection consists of portraits of kings, writers, scientists, statesmen and national heroes.

A museum dedicated to Scotland's most famous and revered national drink, whiskey. The exposition will tell about the history of the drink and reveal some of the secrets of its preparation. Due to its incredible popularity, the museum is open during holidays and weekends. During the tour, tourists will be able to see the process of making whiskey and learn to distinguish the varieties of the drink even without tasting.

The collection is housed in a historic 19th-century neoclassical building that originally served as a school. The gallery exhibits interesting and relevant works by contemporary artists. There are also paintings by recognized masters - Picasso, Braccus, Matisse, Warhol, Nicholson and other authors. There is a garden near the museum building, where you can see some interesting sculptures.

Science and entertainment center and museum, whose exposition is based on modern technologies. The tour begins with landing in a "time machine" that takes a person 14 billion years ago to the time of the Big Bang, which resulted in the creation of the Universe. Gradually, the whole history of the formation of stars, the solar system, our planet, the origin of life and evolution passes by the viewer.

A 1953 yacht built for acting queen Britain - Elizabeth II. Since 1997, the royal family has not used the ship, so the Britannia was moored at the pier in Edinburgh. Now the yacht is used as a museum. Visitors can see the living quarters, the dining room, the main halls. Compared to modern luxury yachts, the inside of the ship looks quite modest, despite the status of the former royal residence.

A grandiose neo-Gothic monument dedicated to the writer Walter Scott, built in the 19th century according to the design of J. Kemp. The monument was built of sandstone, so over time its surface has darkened. In the 1990s there was a need for restoration. It was made using the same material that was used in construction. The monument resembles the shape of a hollow bell tower with a sharp spire. Inside it is a statue of the writer.

Railway bridge across the Firth of Forth linking Edinburgh and the Fife region. The structure has a length of more than 2.5 km., It is completely made of steel. The bridge was built for 7 years, several dozen people died during the work. The Fort Bridge required 10 times more metal to build than eiffel tower. The bridge is supported by three powerful pillars over 100 meters in height.

The zoo was founded at the beginning of the 20th century at the initiative of the Royal Zoological Society. From the very beginning, natural habitat conditions were created for animals, whenever possible. Now in European zoos this is a common and mandatory practice, but almost 100 years ago it was a fairly progressive view of keeping animals. One of the first inhabitants of the Edinburgh Zoo were penguins.

A popular public park in the center of Edinburgh, where many national festivals, concerts and other events take place. The gardens were created as a result of the expansion of the capital and the draining of Loch Noor in the early 19th century. The park has a fountain, a concert venue, flower clock, several monuments and the Eye of Edinburgh - a 33-meter Ferris wheel.

The Botanical Garden was founded in 1670 by scientists R. Sibbald and E. Balfoer as a garden with medicinal plants. In the XVIII and XIX centuries. He moved twice to a new location. The garden covers an area of ​​25 hectares, it includes: palm greenhouse, rockery, heather garden, arboretum, palm greenhouse, Chinese garden, ecological and demonstration departments.

The beach area is located east of Edinburgh, a 20-minute drive from the city. At the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century, a popular seaside resort was located here. The water temperature of the Firth of Forth is not conducive to comfortable swimming even in warm weather, however, many people come to Portobello Beach to sunbathe, have a picnic or drink a pint of beer in the many pubs.

The city hill, on which there is an observation deck and several historical buildings: a monument to Admiral Nelson, the Acropolis, a monument in honor of the philosopher D. Stewart and others. The hill was outside Edinburgh until the middle of the 19th century. First, a prison was built here, then the building of the Scottish government appeared. At the foot of Calton Hill is Holyrood Palace.

Plateau on top of a mountain, located on the territory of Holyrood Park. From here you have a great view of Edinburgh. The North Beach Bridge, the new Houses of Parliament, Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile and other attractions open up to the eye. The observation deck can be accessed via a stone staircase. Arthur's Seat is the highest point in the Scottish capital.

Situated on east coast Scotland (territory of the Lowlands) on the south coast of the Firth of Forth. Capital of Scotland since 1437

The city is home to the University of Edinburgh - one of the main institutions of higher education in the country. The districts of Edinburgh - the Old City and the New City - in 1995 were included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. According to the results of the 2001 census, the population of Edinburgh is 448,624 people.

In August, the city hosts the world's largest annual Edinburgh Festival, which hosts several themed festivals within or at the same time. During this period, the population of the city doubles due to the influx of tourists. In general, Edinburgh attracts about 13 million tourists annually, thus being the second most popular (after London) tourist destination Great Britain.

Etymology of the name "Edinburgh"
The name of the city comes from the Breton name of the fortress Din Eidyn - that is, the Fortress of Eidin - which was located on the lands of the ancient British kingdom of Gododin.

After in the VI century. The Anglo-Saxons conquered the Celtic territories, the fortress began to be called in a new way Edin-burh. Some researchers believe that this name means Edwin's Fort (Edwin's fort), and that it is probably based on the name of King Edwin of Northumbria, who ruled in the 7th century. However, such an assumption is unlikely due to the fact that the name has changed some time before the reign of Edwin.vv The first written mention of the settlement around the fortress, as an independent city, dates back to the beginning of the 12th century - in 1124, by decree of King David I, the Church of the Holy Crucifixion (Church of the Holy Rood).The address to the recipients in the royal charter reads in Latin - Ecclisie Sancte Crucis Edwinesburgensi, and this form of the name of the city indicates either that in the 12th century there was a belief that the name originated from the name of King Edwin, or that for six centuries, the name was transformed and the letter w was included.Be that as it may, in the charter of King William I the Lion of 1170, another name for the city is mentioned - Edenesburch.

The modern name of Edinburgh was finally assigned to the city in the 14th century, although from time to time in the records of those years there are slightly distorted spellings - Edynburgh and Edynburghe.

History of Edinburgh
Edinburgh began to grow and develop rapidly in the 12th century. - when David I transferred the royal court from Dunfermline to Edinburgh Castle and built the Church of the Holy Crucifixion in the vicinity, - and after the appearance in the XIII century. Parliament of Scotland for Edinburgh finally secured the status of the capital.

During the reign of Mary Stuart, the royal court was located in Edinburgh's Holyroodhouse Palace, and when the throne passed to James VI in 1603, the court nobility followed the king to London. After the Scottish Parliament was abolished in 1707, the importance of Edinburgh on the political scene of the country decreased somewhat, but the cultural life of the city continued to flourish and reached its peak during the Enlightenment, when many outstanding scientists and philosophers of that time lived and worked in Edinburgh.

In 1450, Edinburgh was surrounded by a fortress wall - now this area is called the Old City. In the middle of the XVIII century. to the north of it, a new district was built - the New City.

In the middle of the XIX century. there was a sharp increase in the population of the city, mainly due to emigrants from Ireland, who fled from the so-called "potato famine".

Climate of Edinburgh
For Edinburgh, as well as for Scotland as a whole, a temperate maritime climate is characteristic - relatively mild, despite the fact that the city is located at a fairly high northern latitude. Compared to Moscow and Labrador (Newfoundland) at the same latitude, winters in Edinburgh are quite warm, with temperatures rarely dropping below 0°C. Summer in Edinburgh remains relatively cool with temperatures not exceeding 23°C. Also, Edinburgh is characterized by frequent showers (the amount of precipitation is more or less evenly distributed over the months) and a southwest wind. In October and March, Atlantic cyclones, the so-called European storms, have a significant impact on the weather in the city.

Such climatic features are due to the geographical location of Edinburgh - the city stands on the coast, so the weather is formed due to air currents from the North Sea.

Economy of Edinburgh
Edinburgh is one of the most economically prosperous regions in the UK. The economic boom came in 1999 when the Scottish Parliament was restored, after which a large number of government offices were formed in the city, and in connection with this, an increase in employment began. Currently, the unemployment rate in Edinburgh is one of the lowest in the whole country, and the degree of providing the population with jobs is one of the highest. The population of Edinburgh is gradually increasing, mainly due to the influx of emigrants from other countries and to a lesser extent due to residents of other regions of the UK who have moved to Edinburgh.

The most developed sector of Edinburgh's economy is the service sector, namely tourism, banking, education and the development of high technologies. In 1695 the National Bank of Scotland was founded by the Scottish Parliament. It is currently part of the HBOS holding company headquartered in Edinburgh. The Royal Bank of Scotland was founded by royal decree in 1747 and is now ranked fifth in the global market capitalization rankings. Edinburgh is the second largest (after London) economic center in the UK and the fifth in Europe as a whole.

Historically, many companies have had their offices in the New Town and Edinburgh city centre, but business life has moved to other areas over the years. So, to the west of the city center, the Exchange business district was created by architect Terry Farrell - the location of investment and financial corporations such as Scottish Widows, Standard Life, Clydesdale Bank and Baillie Gifford. In addition, in the western part of the city, near Edinburgh Airport, there is Edinburgh Park - a business park area, on the territory of which the offices of the Royal Bank of Scotland, HSBC bank and the HBOS holding company are located.

One of the traditionally developed areas of Edinburgh's economy is brewing. After the Fountainbridge brewery closed in 2005, Caledonian Brewery became the city's largest brewery. In addition, the head office of the Scottish & Newcastle brewing company, one of the largest in the world, is located in Edinburgh.

Another important area of ​​Edinburgh's economy is tourism. Edinburgh is the most popular tourist destination in Scotland. Tourist activity peaks during the summer months, when Edinburgh hosts an arts festival that brings the city up to £100 million in annual profits, and at the beginning of the year, when the city hosts a massive celebration of Hogmanay, the Scottish New Year.

In addition, business tourism makes a significant contribution to the city's economy, as well as holding various meetings at the world level, scientific and diplomatic conferences, sporting events and championships, music and theater festivals. So, in 2003, the MTV Europe Music Awards ceremony was held in Edinburgh, which resulted in a sharp jump in the local economy.

Transport in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is the main transport hub and railway hub for west-central Scotland.

The bus is the main passenger transport in Edinburgh. The main bus companies are Lothian Buses and First Bus. In early 2007, the resumption of the tram service, discontinued in 1956, is planned - tram lines will connect the airport, the western suburbs and the rapidly developing coastal suburbs of Leith and Granton to the city center.

Edinburgh Waverley station - main railroad station Edinburgh. The East Coast Main Line railway line passing through it connects the city with London, Dundee, Aberdeen and other cities of Great Britain.

Edinburgh has an airport - the eighth largest international airport in the UK - which serves international and local flights connecting the city with many cities in the UK and Europe. Located 13 km west of the city center.

Museums in Edinburgh
- National Gallery of Scotland
- National Portrait Gallery of Scotland
- The Writers' Museum - the exposition of the museum is dedicated to the life and work of the great Scottish writers and poets (Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson and others)
- Museum of Childhood - the museum has a large collection of children's toys (from dolls to tricycles) from all over the world.
- Museum of Edinburgh - the museum exposition illustrates the history of Edinburgh from antiquity to the present day.

Galleries of Edinburgh
The National Gallery of Scotland is the oldest in the region Art Gallery. Located in the heart of Edinburgh at the junction of the boundaries of the Old and New Towns. The gallery presents the richest collection of European painting and sculpture, which covers a significant period from the Renaissance to the Post-Impressionism era, and includes paintings by Vermeer, Rubens, Titian, Tintoretto, Van Dyck, El Greco, Rembrandt, Watteau, Gainsborough, Monet , Gauguin, Pissarro, Cezanne and other great artists.

National Portrait Gallery of Scotland - the gallery's exposition consists of portraits of famous Scots (rulers, national heroes, poets, revolutionaries and other historical figures) visitors a rather modest exposure. Currently, the gallery's collection includes more than 5,000 art objects of various genres - from paintings to video installations.

Universities and colleges in Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh, Scotland's largest institution of higher learning, was founded by decree of King James I in 1583, making it the fourth-largest institution in Scotland after St. Andrews University, the University of Glasgow and the University of Aberdeen. In 1506 and 1681 the Edinburgh Royal College of Surgeons and the Royal Medical College of Edinburgh were founded respectively, also by decree of the Crown.

In 1760, the Edinburgh Academy of Arts appeared in the city, in 1907 it received the status of an institute and a new name - the Edinburgh College of Art. Queen Margaret University College, named after St. Margaret of Scotland, wife of King Malcolm III, was founded in 1875 and was originally designed exclusively for the education of women.

In 1821 a school was opened in the city technical training working youth, which later received university status and was renamed in honor of the Scottish mechanical inventor James Watt as Heriot-Watt University. Napier University, named after the Scottish mathematician John Napier, was formerly a college (founded in 1964) and received university status in 1992.

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