Edinburgh is a city of charm, sophistication, poise and contrast, and in the eyes of the inquisitive, intrepid traveller, it can currently do no wrong. The Scottish capital is often on the tourist itinerary for those visiting the UK, but should equally not be overlooked by Brits considering a staycation either. It just has so much to offer; from amazing food crafted from the finest local produce to epic views from its many famous hilltops and so much more besides, those in search of a holiday offering something a little different needn’t always be looking at switching islands, let alone continents. From Edinburgh’s cobbled streets in the West End to the top of Arthur’s seat, it’s all right here, in Scotland’s most vaunted city. So, with that endorsement ringing in your ears with more volume than a set of bagpipes, here are our 5 reasons why Edinburgh is the IDEAL U.K travel destination.
It is the best city in the UK for travel links
What is a popular tourist destination without fantastic travel links? An under visited one, that’s for sure. This year, Edinburgh was rated the best UK city for its local travel links for the second time in a row, assuaging any fears that being up north and far from London is prohibitive to tourists. Also, after 45 regions, cities, and towns in the UK were surveyed, Edinburgh came up tops as the number one city for long distance travel. On the lookout for a city where moving around is easy? Scotland’s capital is right for you.
Fine dining for every season
Edinburgh has a fantastic reputation for its fine eating scene and is proud to have four Michelin starred restaurants – Number One, The Kitchin, The Pompadour by Galvin, and 21212. There is also a fine array of restaurants that are not Michelin starred, but are absolutely glorious, providing some of the most luxurious and opulent dining experiences in the UK. Restaurants you must try include Leith Chop House, Ondine, Gardener’s Cottage, Printing Press, and Field. The jewel in Edinburgh’s dining scene is though, shining more brightly than its many great establishments, is Scotland’s produce. The beef, fresh seafood and game are the envy of the world, and that’s before we get started on the amazing whiskey!
No better place for whisky
Scotland is renowned for its production of whisky, so you simply can’t the city without having a taste of the amber nectar. There are more than enough places to check out for great quality whisky, and the best part is you get it all cheaper than what you’d get in London, including the premium brands. Make a stop at the Scotch Whisky Experience to see one of the biggest whisky collections of the world, learn about the origins of whisky and how it’s made, and do a tasting while you’re at it.
Luxurious accommodation
Opening in summer 2018, The Edinburgh Grand will provide the most luxurious experience for guests who want to pamper themselves throughout their stay in the city. The luxury serviced apartments set in a converted Bank of Scotland building will provide a great focal point for eating, shopping, and sightseeing. But, if you would like to see more of the city, don’t tie yourself down to one place and restrict yourself to one option, as there are a good number of luxury hotels in Edinburgh spread across different parts of the city, ensuring you access to whatever areas you’ll be visiting the most.
Historic and cultural tourist attractions galore
Having been awarded World Heritage Status by UNESCO twice, Edinburgh is renowned for its colourful cultural traditions and rich history. There is much to see for culture enthusiasts, history geeks, and travel photographers. The architecture of the city has metamorphosed beautifully over the years and there are no better places to find evidence of that than the grand Georgian New Town and the narrow cobbled streets of the medieval old town.
Edinburgh is a fantastic city to visit for any kind of holidaymaker, full of culture, history, great food and drink. So, when you’re planning your next UK holiday, you know where to go.