Even when these stunning Scottish adventures make Edinburgh feel like the stuff of legends.

Discover Local in Edinburgh

You’ve probably all heard about the National Museum of Scotland. Since opening its doors in the late 19th century, it has delighted and educated visitors of all ages. Whether you’re intent on diving into Scottish history or seeing the world-famous Dolly the Sheep, the museum has something for everyone. However, we want to point you to its best-kept secret – the Rooftop Terrace. Take the lift to the 7th floor for a panoramic view of the city nestled in the heart of Old Town. Native plants lining the terrace pay homage to Scotland’s diverse biology, while the minimalist design pulls your view to the edge. Walk along the edge, checking off some of the city’s most famous buildings, all the while smiling down at the throngs of tourists lining the streets below. Enjoy the breeze and the quiet it brings before you dive back into your exploration of Edinburgh.

Head to the National Museum for… the city’s best views

Dr Niel’s Garden, along the shore of Duddingston Loch, is a secluded treasure that offers natural beauty, peace, and inspiration to visitors. Situated in one corner of the garden is Thomson’s Tower, built in 1825 for the curious purpose of storing curling stones. It was there that the rules for curling were set down, standardising a sport that would be played worldwide. The octagonal building takes its name from the Reverend John Thomson, minister at nearby Duddingston Kirk, who repurposed the unused upstairs into a painting studio and space for entertaining like-minded artists. Over time, the tower fell into disrepair. Thankfully, it was restored to its glory in 2008 and now is home to memorabilia from its storied past. We suggest reaching out ahead of time to arrange a visit to the tower – it’s a special experience experiencing the origins of an Olympic sport.

The tower of… curling?

What is money? Great question – and we don’t have the answer. Luckily, the Museum on the Mound is here to answer that for us. Housed in the former head office of the Bank of Scotland, this small museum takes a deep dive into the history of money and economics. Like any well-curated museum, the Museum on the Mound approaches its subject from multiple angles, viewing money through the lens of design, technology, security, and more. The space houses artefacts throughout history, such as Scotland’s oldest banknote and items used historically for bartering, but also invites visitors to enjoy interactive exhibits where they can crack a safe or build a model home. More than 50,000 visitors per year enjoy the museum and it’s become a much beloved Edinburgh institution. Drop by for an hour or so – you’ll appreciate your wallet more than ever.

Count your coins at Museum on the Mound

One of Edinburgh’s best-kept secrets is just off the beaten path, literally. Just a five-minute walk from Princes Street lies Dean Village, an architectural oasis and a true hidden gem. This former mill town is situated along the picturesque Water of Leith, which powered the many grain mills that once made this a thriving industrial hub. While the mills themselves are all gone, eagle-eyed visitors can still see their impact. Millstones and plaques decorated with pies and cakes dot the area and the Well Court lies at the heart of the village, where it used to house many of the village’s mill workers. Now, the village is a highly sought-after residential area and a blissful oasis in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely stroll through the village, making sure to take in the famous Dean Bridge.

Jump back in time at gorgeous Dean Village

One of Edinburgh’s most visually stunning destinations is also home to one of its most compelling histories, starting with The Order of the Thistle. The Order has been one of Scotland’s most prestigious groups, with membership being given exclusively by the sovereign. However, the order went without a home for over two centuries. This changed in 1911 with the completion of Thistle’s Chapel. Designed by Robert Lorimer, the chapel is captivating in its beauty and detail. Throughout the space, Scottish and religious iconography interact, seen most vividly in depictions of angels playing bagpipes. The chapel invites visitors to reflect on the proud heritage of the Scottish people, both in their history and their faith, all in one of the country’s most purely beautiful spaces.

Feast your eyes on Thistle’s Chapel

At the heart of Edinburgh is her famous river, the Water of Leith. With that in mind, there is almost no better way to see the city than to follow her beautiful, winding path through Edinburgh. Starting in Balerno, the walkway spans nearly 21 kilometres as it makes its way through some of Edinburgh’s most beloved sites, including Dean Village. It makes use of former rail lines and walking paths, avoiding traffic and immersing walkers in nature, ending at Leith. The trail is flat and can be walked in roughly five hours. We recommend a more leisurely, targeted walk, taking time to stop along the way for both planned and unplanned diversions. The walkway is the ideal way to experience both the natural and manmade beauty of Edinburgh and is a perfect way to spend a day for families, groups, couples, and solo travelers alike.

National Museum Scotland