5 Things We Love To Do In Edinburgh’s Old Town

One of the things we love so much about Edinburgh is all of the city’s different areas and how each one has its own identity and unique feel. No matter where you are in the city, there are certain characteristics that make each place feel special, which is one of the reasons why we think Edinburgh appeals to so many people. This week we share our favourite things about Edinburgh’s Old Town.

The buzz and energy around the Old Town is something we love, especially throughout winter when our city is feeling most festive.

Edinburgh’s Historic Old Town

An official UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, Edinburgh’s Old Town is oozing with history. The Old Town was home to several literary legends such as Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott, as well as the birthplace of Harry Potter. With its narrow closes, historic buildings, and some of the city’s oldest attractions, this famous part of Edinburgh is just begging to be explored.

There are so many historic buildings and fantastic museums in the Old Town, so it can be difficult to decide where to go first. The Old Town boasts everything from the ever-popular National Museum of Scotland – where we could easily spend the day getting lost amongst their many exhibitions – to smaller speciality museums like The Writers’ Museum, Camera Obscura, and The Museum of Childhood. To help you explore the city’s many museums, we wrote a blog post all about The Best Lesser-Known Edinburgh Museums.

The Old Town is perhaps one of the most concentrated areas in the capital in terms of shops, bars, and visitor attractions, making it nearly impossible to narrow down a list of our favourite things. For this reason, we’ve written many different blogs about the Old Town, some of which are linked throughout this post. So keep reading to discover 5 things we love to do in the Old Town.

1. Explore The Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, or Holyrood Palace, is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. It’s located at the bottom of the Royal Mile and has served as the official residence of the Kings and Queens of Scots since the 16th century. The late Queen Elizabeth II used to spend one week in residence at the Palace each summer, where she carries out various official engagements, will King Charles III do the same?

The 16th-century Historic Apartments of Mary Queen of Scots and the State Apartments – used for official and state entertaining – are open to the public throughout the year (except of course when members of the Royal Family are in residence). You’ll know when a Royal resident is in when the flag is at full mast!

This is a brilliant place to spend an afternoon and it’s always fun to see how royalty lives and in the Palace. You can explore its close associations with some of Scotland’s most well-known historical figures and learn how it’s used today when carrying out official royal engagements. The headsets are a new addition and brilliant for children and there are various interactive things to do in every room. And once you’ve bought your ticket, it’s valid for a whole year so you can return as many times as you like!

The Scottish Parliament

When you’re finished exploring the Palace, head across the street to The Scottish Parliament – a very different sort of building! Comprised of oak, steel, and granite, this unique and award-winning building was the brainchild of Catalan architect Enric Miralles, who sadly died before its completion. The building was designed with sustainability in mind, with environmentally-friendly features like solar panels, used for heating water in the building. Head inside and visit the debating chamber if you have time. Even if there’s not a debate taking place, it’s well worth the visit.

2. Shop for Independent Souvenirs

It’s hard not to wince when thinking about souvenir shopping these days, especially in a capital city. Amidst all the plastic, it can be very difficult to know where you can find a real keepsake or hand-crafted item to take home. But fear not! Here are three fantastic independent shops in the Old Town that sell genuine souvenirs you won’t be sorry you splashed the cash on.

Cranachan & Crowdie

Cranachan & Crowdie | 263 Canongate, Royal Mile

Edinburgh has such a vibrant food scene and hundreds of artisan food and drink products are made in Scotland. Locally produced food is the perfect gift to take home, and Cranachan & Crowdie on the Royal Mile is the place to find it. A large range of curated Scottish produce is on offer at this gift shop and delicatessen, and an adorable Australian Labradoodle has taken up residence as their official Shortbread Quality Control Manager. You’ll find every quintessential Scottish food & drink souvenir here, from thistle-shaped shortbread and porridge spurtles to gorgeous locally-made pottery and luxury hampers.

Museum Context

Museum Context | 40 Victoria Street & 42-44 Cockburn Street

Museum Context specialises in a curated collection of quirky and unusual gift ideas, inspired by a love of period property. Their Cockburn shop is an alluring treasure trove of Edinburgh-themed homewares, novelty books, and other off-the-wall souvenirs, many made by local artists.

Back on Victoria Street is their second branch, ‘Diagon House’, a self-proclaimed purveyor of all things Harry Potter. This almost museum-like shop is brimming with official merchandise and bespoke gifts. In short, it’s a must-visit for Potter fans.

Walker Slater

Walker Slater | 16-20 Victoria Street

If you’re after a traditional tweed jacket or a made-to-measure suit, Walker Slater is the place to head. You’ll also find knitwear made from local Scottish yarns as well as some fabulous accessories and gifts. Stepping into one of their four UK stores is an experience in itself and you’ll wonder if you’ve travelled back in time. They’re gorgeously Scottish and full of character.

There are plenty of other independent souvenir shops dotted around Edinburgh, read our guide to discover more.

3. A Concert at St Cecilia’s Hall & Music Museum

St Cecilia’s Hall, which was originally opened in 1763, is the oldest purpose-built concert hall in Scotland. You’ll find it located on the corner of Niddry Street and the Cowgate, less than 200 metres down from the Royal Mile.  It is a Category A listed building and is the only place left in the world where it is still possible to hear eighteenth-century music in an eighteenth-century concert hall, played on eighteenth-century instruments!

The elegant oval concert hall on the first floor of the building has been in continuous use since it opened and remains at the heart of the building. Having recently undergone a £6.5million renovation, the hall is now complemented by four new galleries. The museum here houses one of the most important historic musical instrument collections in the world, and includes instruments like harpsichords, some of which are still playable.

Although events and performances aren’t currently taking place at St Cecilia’s Hall, you can still visit the museum and take in the gorgeous building. For music lovers, it’s a must-visit!

4. Dining at one of Edinburgh’s Finest Restaurants

The Old Town is home to some of Edinburgh’s finest restaurants, making it the ideal place to enjoy a luxurious meal out. There’s a multitude of great places to try here, many located on the Royal Mile. It’s difficult to narrow them down, so we’ve listed just three of our many favourites.

Monteith’s

Monteith’s | 61 High Street

Intimate and refined, this cosy spot is located down a narrow close off the Royal Mile, lit up by twinkling fairy lights. This award-winning cocktail bar and restaurant is a great place to sample some of the finest seasonal Scottish food in a smart, traditional decor. With a frequently changing menu, dishes like dry-aged fillet steaks and Scottish lobster will make for an unforgettable meal.

David Bann Restaurant

David Bann Restaurant | 56-58 St Mary’s Street

David Bann’s eclectic and award-winning cuisine is served in relaxed and refined surroundings and is the place to come for vegetarian fine-dining. Their globally-inspired menu is filled with both vegetarian and vegan dishes as well as a selection of vegan wines. Often listed as one of Scotland’s best restaurants, this is a great place to enjoy a gourmet vegetarian meal on a special occasion.

If you’re looking for more places to eat veggie or vegan in the capital, here are some of the best places to eat vegetarian food in Edinburgh.

Angels With Bagpipes

Angels With Bagpipes | 343 High Street

It gets even swankier at Angels With Bagpipes, a Michelin Guide restaurant also located on the Royal Mile. Having opened its doors as recently as 2010, Angels with Bagpipes quickly established itself as one of the finest restaurants in Edinburgh. Lush decor in a 17th-century building and candlelit rooms creates an intimate atmosphere for stylish Scottish fine dining. Fresh and seasonal ingredients make up their award-winning cuisine and it’s one of the best places in Edinburgh to try haggis. There’s also an interesting story behind the name, so be sure to ask!

5. Snap Some Photos

The Old Town is without a doubt one of the most popular places to get your camera out in Edinburgh – and with good reason! Historic buildings, cobbled streets and narrow closes make it any Instagramers dream. Here are some of our favourite places to get our cameras (or phones!) out in the Old Town.

Victoria Street

This colourful and vibrant street never disappoints!

Mary’s Milk Bar

If you go, be sure to sample their ‘scoop of the day’!

 

The Royal Mile

Perhaps the most enchanting and historic street in Edinburgh’s Old Town, there’s always a good photo-op here.

Armchair Books

We absolutely love this hidden gem, located on West Port.

Closes & Gardens

You can spend an entire day wandering in and out of Edinburgh’s many closes. Some of them are easy to pass by, but if you do you might miss out on some of the city’s most charming courtyards & gardens.

Greyfriars Bobby

We can’t resist snapping a photo of this cutie!

The Writers’ Museum/Makar’s Court

Makar’s Court is a monument dedicated to Scotland’s writers, paved with quotation-engraved stones. It’s a favourite place for locals and tourists alike to get their cameras out – and it’s easy to see why.

Cockburn Street

One of the Old Town’s most charming streets, Cockburn Street is lined with cosy cafés and quirky independent shops.

 

Pinnies & Poppy Seeds

This is another one of our favourite edible-souvenir shops in the Old Town where you’ll find delicious handmade shortbread & other Scottish treats.

The Scottish Parliament

There are many details to behold in this unusual and photogenic building.

 

We hope you enjoyed this post about Edinburgh’s beautiful Old Town!

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