11 Beautiful Hidden Gems in Edinburgh, Scotland Even Locals Don’t Know

Edinburgh, Scotland, , 87 Comments

Last Updated on the 3rd of December, 2025

When you think of Edinburgh, iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, the Scott Monument, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse are likely to come to mind.

And rightfully so—these architectural marvels are timeless symbols of the city’s history.

While the top attractions are undeniably bucket list experiences for many visitors, they often come with a downside: swarms of tourists fighting for the perfect photo op, long queues, and the challenge of finding a quiet moment can leave even the most seasoned traveller feeling drained.

If you stroll beyond the bagpipers on the Royal Mile and break away from the whistlestop tours, you’ll embrace a different side of Edinburgh, one that can foster a much deeper connection to my beloved city.

Give yourself time to wander, and I can guarantee that you’ll find a myriad of delights, unexpected spaces, quirky shopping, dining and drinking experiences and a far greater sense of what truly makes this city tick.

With this blog post, I wanted to reveal some of the overlooked attractions, where you as a family, as a food lover, as an art and culture enthusiast, or even as a traveller with little time, fully get your money’s worth – without crowds and the typical “Been there, done that” talk!

So grab a cup of tea and let’s dive into the lesser-known side of Edinburgh!

Read More: 8 Amazing Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh At Least Once

White Horse Close is tucked away on the Royal Mile

Discover Hidden Gems in Edinburgh – Unveiling the City’s Best Kept Secrets

When I lived in Edinburgh,  I set a goal to seek out as many hidden gems as I could find within the city.

While exploring the breadth and width of Edinburgh, I discovered many places still untouched by mass tourism and can’t wait to share some of them with you.

Discovering these hidden gems reminded me that there are many ways to turn an ordinary trip into an extraordinary adventure.

Venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist paths can lead you to unique opportunities to engage with the city you are visiting on a more intimate and rewarding level.

I’ve chosen eleven of the more interesting hidden gems that you can easily weave into your itinerary and make your visit to Edinburgh even more special!

Read More: A Local’s Guide: Some Of The Best Things To See And Do In Edinburgh’s New Town

Gardner’s Cottage can be found in Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh

#1. Walk the Scotsman Steps

If you are looking for a useful and a state of art shortcut between the old town’s Market Street and the central railway station, then look no further than the beautifully restored Scotsman Steps, originally built between 1899 and 1902 as part of the Scotsman building.

Before you rush up the winding staircase, pause for a moment to notice the soft hues underneath your feet that were created by Scottish artist Martin Creed with 104 different types of marble brought from various parts of the world.

The Scotsman Steps are a vital part of Edinburgh’s cityscape and, in a way, a perfect metaphor for the city’s two distinct halves.

When the Scotsman Steps were built in 1899, you would enter them from the poor part of town and emerge at a bridge that took you to the infinitely more wealthy New Town.

The Scotsman Steps – also known as The Market Street Steps –  can be slippery if it’s been raining, and can be challenging for someone with knee problems, but hidden in plain sight, it’s a state-of-the-art place to visit.

  • Getting there: You’ll find the entrance right beside the Scotsman Hotel on North Bridge.

Read More: Your Essential Guide To Planning The Best Edinburgh Holiday In Scotland

Beautifully restored steps

#2. Visit Dean Village to See St. Bernard’s Well 

The peaceful village on the Water of Leith was once a prosperous hamlet with eleven working mills scattered on the city’s longest river.

While the village is no longer the hidden gem it once was, it is still worth visiting because several highlights, including the Dean Cemetery, Water of Leith, and the wonderful stone houses dating from the seventeenth century, give this part of Edinburgh a unique charm.

If you follow the Water of Leith from Dean Village to Stockbridge, you’ll find St. Bernard’s Well, once believed to have healing powers.

For nearly two centuries, people believed the mineral-rich spring water could cure a variety of ailments, including arthritis, muscle pain, and even blindness. 

The ornate 18th-century structure is so incredible it’s almost hard to believe it was built for a well – the room has a decorative mosaic ceiling and a pump adorned with a Grecian vase.

*Good to know – The well is open to the public on certain days of the year, but you can still stop by to see the structure

Read More: 10 Things To Do In Edinburgh This Autumn That Are Good For Your Soul

St Bernard’s Well in Edinburgh

#3. Step back in Time and visit Lauriston Castle

Edinburgh Castle may be at the top of any visitor’s wish list, but there are other palaces worth visiting.

Lauriston Castle, situated between Davidson’s Mains and Cramond, is perfect for stunning views across the Firth of Forth and for a relaxing atmosphere.

The castle was built in three phases for the Napier family, and the oldest part is a Tower House dating back to 1593. Nowadays, the castle is beautifully furnished in Edwardian style and open to the public.

The grounds are free to explore, and you can enjoy a walk around the beautiful gardens and views out to Cramond Island.

  • Getting There:  You can take buses to Davidson’s Mains (21, 41 & 42), or Silverknowes Terminus (16, 27, 29 & 37); both are around a 10-minute walk from Lauriston Castle. The address:  2 Cramond Rd S, Edinburgh EH4 6AD, UK.
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 7.30am – 5 pm, Admission: Castle Admission Adult £8, Concessions £6, Under 5 free, For more detailed info, click here. 

Read More: Your Guide To Some Of Edinburgh’s Best Neighbourhoods

Lauriston Castle on a winter’s day

#4. Climb on St. Giles’ Cathedral roof

If stunning views are your thing, you will be blown away by what you can see from the roof of St Giles’ Cathedral.

St. Giles’ Cathedral has a vital role in the city’s cultural life as it hosts a wide variety of lectures, exhibitions, and concerts, and if you want to take a photo within the building, there’s a £2 charge.

If you are wondering what is so special about this particular place, as Scotland is full of beautiful churches and cathedrals, and what I loved most about St. Giles Cathedral, also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, they offer guided rooftop tours.

The ticket costs £6 per person, and all the bookings are taken on the day. Keep in mind that Rooftop tours currently take place on Saturday from 10.30am – 4pm and on Sunday from 1.30pm – 4pm.

  • Getting there: St Giles’ Cathedral is located on the Royal Mile, and its address is  High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE, UK.
  • Admission: Rooftop Tours  Adult £6, for more detailed information, click here.

Read More: A Short Guide To The Best Attractions Along The Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland

St. Gils Cathedral’s ceiling

#5. Visit the Scottish Parliament

Located beside the Palace of Holyroodhouse and opened by the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2004, the Scottish Parliament is the devolved legislature of Scotland.

While the creation was heavily criticised because its final cost was ten times higher than initial estimates, it is known for having one of the most innovative and controversial designs in Scotland and is a must-see on any Edinburgh itinerary for fans of modern architecture.

The front of the building is a mixture of steel, oak and granite, designed to look as if it is growing from the ground.

As well as admiring its unusual exterior, you can also go inside the parliament and visit the main rooms of the building, which are equally fascinating. The highlight is the debating chamber, which you can see empty on days when there are no sessions.

If you are interested in exploring the history of Scottish politics and the design of the building, you can book one of the guided tours. Otherwise, you are free to roam around.

  • Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm
  • Entry price: Free

Read More: The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary For A Spellbinding 5 Days In Scotland

Scottish Parliament Debating Chamber, Edinburgh.

#6. Stop By a Cemetery

Whether you are interested in the area’s history, the artwork of the tombs, or simply seeking out the inspiration behind some of the names in Harry Potter, Edinburgh’s graveyards have a few tales lurking between the headstones.

Here, among the heavily decorated mausoleums and tombstones belonging to scholars, lords and architects, you will surely find a familiar name.

One thing to look out for is watchtowers, which were used to keep grave robbers at bay.

There was a time when body snatching was rife due to a decrease in executions taking place and an increase in students wanting to learn about medical science and therefore needing cadavers to dissect.

  • The Old Calton Cemetery | is a burial of tradesmen and merchants. Here you can find artist David Allan, architect Robert Burns and publisher William Blackwood.
  • St Cuthbert’s Kirkyard | contains weathered slabs, crumbling mausoleums and ‘memento mori’ carvings in every direction you look. There’s an impressive memorial to the Reverend David Dickson, which dates from 1840.
  • Canongate Kirk | Located on the Royal Mile, east of the Royal Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate Kirk is the final resting place of poet Robert Fergusson, philosopher Dugald Stewart and town planner George Drummond.

Read More: Some Of The Best Things To See At The National Museum Of Scotland in Edinburgh

Old Calton Burial Ground, Edinburgh

#7. Go on a Self-Guided Trainspotting Tour

Phenomenally successful Trainspotting was first published in 1993, and the classic movie followed a few years later.

On the list of greatest British films, Trainspotting was ranked 10th best by the British Film Institute.

If you are a fan of the book, a movie or both, you can go on a self-guided tour to find Trainspotting filming locations.

You can start the tour with the main shopping street in Edinburgh – Princes Street.

Remember how in the film’s iconic opening sequence, with Renton’s famous ‘Choose Life’ speech playing as Spud and Renton leg it to escape the cops after stealing from John Menzies Bookstore? It was filmed on Princes Street.

Other filming locations worth checking out are:

  • Calton Street Bridge, where Renton is hit by the car.
  • Holyrood Park, where  Mark takes a friend on a run around Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat.
  • The Great Hall of St Stephen’s in Stockbridge, where Spud attends a recovery group meeting.

Read More: What To See and Do In Edinburgh: 12 Amazing Ideas For First-Time Visitors

Calton Road Bridge – one of the filming locations for the movie

#8. Be in awe of Mansfield Traquair Centre

Edinburgh’s version of the Sistine Chapel is this former church, with an interior covered in paintings done by the famous Phoebe Anna Traquair.

Located at the bottom of Broughton Street, the magnificent building, which was once a Catholic Apostolic Church, was designed by nineteenth-century architect Sir Robert Rowand Anderson and completed in 1885.

The colourful murals were added in the 1890s. Sadly, they were neglected, and in 1993, a campaign was launched to save the murals.

Nowadays, it is used as an event space, catering to weddings and functions.

Although not open every day, it is well worth finding out when it is open as Phoebe Traquair’s murals are a vision of arts and crafts influenced beauty and were so nearly lost.

  • Opening Times: The centre has extended opening hours in August and during the Doors Open Days in autumn. Check their website for the latest info.
  • Address: 15 Mansfield Place

Read More: How to Visit Enchanting Stirling Castle & Gardens in Scotland: An Easy Guide

The magnificent Phoebe Traquair murals.

#9. Visit Gladstone’s Land on the Royal Mile

The six-storey tenement house, Glandstones Land, is one of the oldest buildings on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Despite its age and long history, the dwelling is very well preserved and maintained to this day.

Filled with antiques from the time, it gives a fascinating insight for those who are curious about how the wealthy went about their lives back in the 1800s.

The building takes its name from Thomas Gledstanes, a wealthy merchant and burgess of Edinburgh, who bought, remodelled and extended the property in an attempt to attract upper-class tenants for his well-decorated apartments, as well as for the tavern in the basement and the grocer and cloth shop located on the ground floor. 

The most fascinating room is The Painted Chamber, which was built as part of his extension to the property in 1620. The curved ceiling is painted with vibrant scenes depicting flowers, animals, and fruit. The walls are painted with friezes showing vases of flowers under rounded arches.

The effect is simply stunning and really brings to life the world of a prosperous 17th-century merchant.

  • Opening hours: House 10.00–15.00 (self-guided tours until 14.30; guided tour at 15.00)
  • Entry price: Adult £10.00

Read More: Isle Of Skye Guide: 5 Amazing Stops You Should Visit On The Trotternish Loop

One of the rooms at Gladstone’s Land, Edinburgh.

#10. Visit the 16th-century Magdalen Chapel

It’s easy to pass by Magdalen Chapel, a 16th-century chapel with hardly a second glance.

But the unassuming chapel is worth stopping for to see the only surviving pre-Reformation stained glass that offers a literal window into the past.

The chapel is located on the Cowgate, a moody street dotted with nightclubs, bars, and hostels that stretches across the bottom level of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

It’s a spot that’s frequently missed by any visitors buzzing between the more popular sights on the nearby Royal Mile and Candlemaker Row.

  • Opening times: Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., though it’s best to get in touch with the Scottish Reformation Society in advance for confirmation.
  • Address: 41 Cowgate, Edinburgh, EH1 1JR

Read More: St. Conan’s Kirk: A Captivating Architectural Marvel on the Shore of Loch Awe

The church has the only stained glass windows that survived the Scottish Reformation intact.

#11. Stop by the Royal Bank of Scotland, Dundas House

Located in the New Town, Dundas House is the registered office of the Royal Bank of Scotland, dating back to the late 18th century.

Originally, the residence was designed for a wealthy landowner and merchant, Sir Lawrence Dundas, to reflect his status and wealth.

The wonderful Neoclassical building is a category A listed building that, over the centuries, has become a significant landmark, yet many visitors to Edinburgh often miss it.

One of the main attractions in the building is the starry domed ceiling created by John Dick Peddie in 1857 as well as the ornate entrance hall.

  • Where to find it: 36 St Andrew Square, New Town, Edinburgh

*Know before you go – As this is a bank, it has hours of operation: Monday-Friday from 9:15 – 5:30

Read More: 7 Days Scotland West Coast Road Trip: Glencoe To The Isle Of Skye

The stunning ceiling is worth a look

More Hidden Gems to Uncover

If you have more time to wander around the city, there are, of course, many more unique places worth seeking out.

Check the list below to see if anything catches your eye.

  • Anatomical Museum – is where you can see the skeleton of notorious murderer William Burke
  • Physic Garden – located in the Palace of Holyroodhouse’s courtyard, the 17th-century garden showcases medicinal plants that were used by apothecaries, herbalists and doctors
  • Duddingston – situated on the south-eastern edge of Holyrood Park, Duddingston is a historic village with timber-framed cottages dating back to the 12th century, including The Sheep Heid Inn, said to be Scotland’s oldest pub.
  • Custom Lane – Sitting at one corner of The Shore, Custom Lane has been wonderfully converted by Edinburgh-based architects, GRAS, from a wharf building into a centre for design.
  • Craigmillar Castle – located about three miles south-east of the city, the castle was once a safe haven for Mary Queen of Scots 
  • Jupiter Artland – Jupiter Artland is an award-winning contemporary sculpture garden located outside of Edinburgh.
Interior of Craigmillar Castle near Edinburgh

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Now, over to you!

Have you been to Edinburgh? Let us know in the comments!

Let us know if you are planning a visit to Edinburgh and have travel-related questions!

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87 thoughts on “11 Beautiful Hidden Gems in Edinburgh, Scotland Even Locals Don’t Know”

    1. Thank you kindly. I think it is a very good idea, when visiting Edinburgh, to uncover the lesser-known wonders of the city, far beyond the iconic Edinburgh Castle. All you have to do is leave behind the well-worn tourist trails and explore the enigmatic secrets of this captivating city and unearth the mysteries hidden from plain view. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    2. all unhidden gems for me… I love my city… Any more?

      how about cowboy village in Morningside

      the war tunnels in liberton

      colinton tunnel is super cute

      fine McGonnagles grace stone in greyfriars church, the worst least respected poet in memory who the evil JK Rowling named Professor McGonnagle after as a joke

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      1. And there’s also

        Dr. Neil’s Garden

        Chapel of Saint Albert the Great

        Scottish Poetry Library

        Black History Walks

        Colonnades at the Signet Library etc….

        I love my city too, but there’s only so much you can write about in a blog post before it turns into a book

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  2. What wonderful, hidden spots to discover! White Horse Close on the Royal Mile sounds great. Despite visiting Edinburgh a lot, I’ve never ventured there. I’ll need to add it to my list of places to visit next time I’m through, along with all the rest of the places you mentioned! Dundas House is yet another one that sounds awesome. 😊🦋

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    1. I am glad to hear that the wonderful Dundas House caught your attention. It is well worth a visit, particularly for its magnificent dome in the main banking hall.  While the upstairs is private, the lower floor with its domed ceiling is open to the public and offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the past.  White Horse Close is also a must-see as its preservation allows visitors to step back in time and experience a slice of the city’s storied past, uncovering the layers of history that lie within Edinburgh’s heart. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Edinburgh is indeed a fine city with so much to do that it’s quite impossible to see it all in one trip. I am glad to hear you had a wonderful time visiting Edinburgh. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I’ve been revisiting Edinburgh for the last decade, and that’s why I have had plenty of time to visit the most popular tourist attractions and discover lesser-known places. I find that stepping away from crowded tourist spots allows you to interact with locals and experience the true essence of a place. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1.  Guided rooftop tours that provide panoramic city views and insights into the cathedral’s history are one of the best things to do in the city. The tours are typically available on weekends (Saturdays and Sundays), but booking is necessary as they are limited to small groups (four people). I very much enjoyed the views of the Royal Mile and other parts of the city. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  6. We jjust returned from Edinburgh last week. We had a wonderful time. I wish that your article was published a couple of weeks ago as it would have inspired us to visit a few more places. However we never lacked for things to do and see. Edinburgh really is a special place.

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    1. I just returned from Edinburgh last week myself. The kids had two weeks off from school for Easter, and I decided to take them to Edinburgh. I am glad to hear you had a wonderful time. I find that spring is great for visiting Edinburgh because the weather is warm and you can enjoy colourful cherry blossoms. And you are right – anyone who visits Edinburgh will never lack things to do and see. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  7. This is amazing! I only stayed for a couple of days in Edinburgh, so I am not surprised that I missed these hidden gems, but I’m definitely marking them for my next visit! Thanks for sharing!

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    1. Hello, Juliette, it’s so nice to hear from you! I am glad that you enjoyed my post. I love discovering hidden gems when travelling as they offer a more authentic and personalised travel experience. It also allows for a deeper connection with the local culture and provides unique perspectives on the destination. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Edinburgh is full of beautiful architecture, historic buildings and atmospheric surroundings. The city isn’t just worth visiting, it’s worth throwing yourself into. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad to hear you had a wonderful time visiting my home country, Latvia. It’s a beautiful country with a rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural landscapes. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Maggie. I love exploring off-the-beaten-path locations as they often provide insights and stories that are not found in standard tourist guides. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  11. I haven’t been to Edinburgh in almost a decade and, aside from the Royal Mile, I did not visit any of the sites on your list. Which is a shame, because there are so many beautiful spots in the city! I hope to return and discover more of Edinburgh, and your post gives me a lot to draw from for my next itinerary! Thanks for sharing, Aiva 😊

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    1. I hope you get to return to Edinburgh, Rebecca. It’s a city worth visiting and revisiting for the historic architecture and wonderful food, and for the Scottish traditions that you will encounter, such as bagpipe playing, tartan weaving, and of course, haggis! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  12. Aiva, these places are definitely not what most people mention about Edinburgh. So, thank you for sharing the information on them with us. I am particularly intrigued by the Phoebe Traquair murals, and I can imagine visiting the Scottish Parliament would be an interesting addition to anyone’s itinerary.

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    1. You are welcome. I am glad you enjoyed them. There are many incredible hidden gems in Edinburgh, and these are just a few of the most beautiful ones that give the city its true identity far beyond the tourist trail. You’ll realise the city’s uniqueness once you’ve seen Edinburgh off the beaten path. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad to hear you had a chance to experience the unique and spectacular event that combines military tradition, music, and culture! And I hope you get to return to Edinburgh to explore more of it. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I hope you get to visit Edinburgh one day. There is more to Edinburgh than meets the eye, with countless museums and art galleries to enjoy as well as beautiful parks and gardens throughout the city. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much for your lovely comment. I have always preferred to stay longer in a city I visit as it allows for a more immersive and meaningful experience, beyond the typical tourist highlights. I find that by taking the time to explore beyond the main attractions, you can discover the unique character of a place, connect with its culture, and potentially even make new friends. I hope you get to go to Edinburgh, it’s a wonderful city to visit. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thank you kindly. Whenever I travel, I try to venture beyond the city centre and explore different neighbourhoods, as each has its own vibe, style, and character, and many hidden gems. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thank you kindly. Whenever I travel, I always try to embrace the unexpected, be open to new experiences and be willing to get lost. This way, I get to discover hidden gems and find things I never expected. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  18. Even though I’ve never done these things, there was a lot to relate to. We visited Glasgow cemetery, so I’ll bet Edinburgh’s is just as interesting. Ditto for the Royal Bank of Scotland (we went to the RB of England). And I don’t think I understood 2 words in the entire Trainspotting film, the accent was so strong! 😂 I think I’ve read about Dean’s Village on An Orcadian Abroad. It looks very cute. Lauriston Castle would be a big draw as well. Thanks for these suggestions. It’s always fun to go off the beaten path.

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    1. If you visit a city for the first time, you should definitely look at and pose in front of all the popular sights – monuments and the like are famous for a reason after all, and you need to cross them off your list. But it is also a good idea to be open to adventure and not to be afraid to wander off the beaten path. Unfortunately, Dean Village is no longer the hidden gem it once was, but it is still worth a visit as there good a few quiet corners where you can soak up the natural beauty.

      I didn’t understand much of the dialogue in the film either, as I watched it before I lived in Scotland. It’s a great movie, as besides depicting Mark Renton’s struggles to kick his heroin habit, it also shows what happened in the city when, after World War II, Leith’s docks declined, and deindustrialisation led to mass unemployment between 1975 and 1985, along with depopulation, dereliction, and impoverishment. The availability of cheap heroin from Iran and Afghanistan ramped up crime and addiction, and the Edinburgh police’s ruthless suppression of intravenous drug equipment resulted in increased needle-sharing, causing the spread of HIV. The city was subsequently dubbed the AIDS capital of Europe. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. If you are interested in history and architecture, Lauriston Castle is a must-see, especially as the castle’s interiors, including the furnishings, have largely remained unchanged, making it a fascinating museum. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad you enjoyed them. I find that Edinburgh’s hidden gems offer a more intimate and unique experience beyond the iconic landmarks. It took me a few years to explore the lesser-known corners of the city, and I had lots of fun doing it. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Suzanne! The well-known sights in Edinburgh are impressive, but you can find them in any Scottish travel guide. What’s really fun is to get off the beaten path, dive deeper, and explore what millions of tourists flocking to Edinburgh miss. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad you enjoyed it. I had heaps of fun uncovering Edinburgh’s hidden gems and can safely say that you can always make your time in the city special by exploring these unmissable places.  Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thank you 🙂 Edinburgh is packed with iconic landmarks, but the city also hides a wealth of secret treasures. Beyond the crowds at the Castle, there’s a world of hidden wonders waiting to be explored. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  24. I only knew of a few of these spots, and I’ve been living in Edinburgh for four years. Those murals at the Mansfield Traquair Centre are so impressive. I will have to venture over to that side of town one day soon 😊 I also had no idea you could go on the roof of St Giles! Must be a fab view of the Royal Mile from up there.

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    1. I did not know about many of the lesser-known places when I lived in Edinburgh, too, Rosie. I hope you get to visit Mansfield Traquair – Edinburgh’s ‘Sistine Chapel’ as it is simply extraordinary. It is located a short walk away from the heart of the city, and with its magnificent murals, soaring ceilings, and timeless atmosphere can easily captivate any visitor. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad you enjoyed it. You would love visiting St Bernard’s well as it stands tall and distinguishes itself amongst thick greenery.  Mansfield Traquair Centre is also a must-see as the inside of the building is decorated with beautiful religious murals painted by Phoebe Traquair – all absolutely stunning and very colourful. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  26. You have highlighted a lot of beautiful sights to see in the city of my heritage, Aiva. I do love Edinburgh, but alas, have not been here often enough. We were invited to an August wedding here, this year, but alas, had to send our regrets. Maybe next year, but definitely not during the Festival Fringe. Happy Wednesday. Allan

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    1. I am sorry to hear you had to decline the wedding invitation, but it is a very sensible thing to do, Allan 🙂 Edinburgh in August is very expensive as it’s when the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe, International Festival, and Military Tattoo bring over half a million visitors to the city. This extreme demand drives prices up by 50-100% for accommodation, making them sky-high and unaffordable. I was fortunate enough to live in Edinburgh and experience three Fringes and four Hogmanies without the need to book overpriced accommodation. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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      1. That is just the way things go sometimes Aiva. We knew about the Fringe. Edmonton, our city has the second largest Frings festival in the world and it runs around the same time. Funny both cites with big fringes start with Ed.

        Thanks for your great response. Allan 🤗🤗

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        1. I had no idea that every August, artists from around the world flock to Edmonton’s historic Old Strathcona district to put on their shows. I had to look it up, Allan, and it looks like Edmonton’s Fringe Festival offers lots of fun and is well worth travelling for. Thanks for sharing it xx

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    1. Familiar spots like Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace are scattered all over the web, enticing people from all over the world to visit, but there are also many wonderful hidden gems worth seeking out. BWishing your friend a wonderful trip to Scotland. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  28. The streets of the city were well combed by you! I like the Lauriston Castle photo, reminds me of the Chronicles of Narnia or the Secret Garden, where children have magical experiences in a building resembling that one. The bank is interesting too, since the stars are Stars of David. I wonder if there is Jewish heritage for the builder or former owner.

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    1. I am glad to hear you loved my photo of the wonderful Lauriston Castle, especially as it is a beautiful and captivating attraction, known for its stunning Edwardian interiors and expansive grounds.

      I prefer it to the busier Edinburgh Castle because there is a tranquil Japanese garden, which only adds to the overall serenity of the location. I also love your vision about kids having magical experiences. I find that castles with their impressive architecture, rich history, and the stories they hold can evoke a sense of wonder and enchantment.

      I looked into a builder and the owner of the build g but cannot find any Jewish heritage, only that the owner acquired two slave estates in the West Indies – in Dominica and in Grenada.

      Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  29. Great guide to showcase some of the lesser known places in Edinburgh. I’m such a fan of hidden gems as visiting a place without the crowds always feels more special. We typically try to visit parliament buildings as tours are typically free and the architecture is generally pretty interesting. These all seem like places we’d enjoy and will add them to the list for when we finally make our way to Scotland. Thanks for sharing Aiva. Have a wonderful weekend.

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    1. Whenever we travel, we try to find a few hidden gems as they often offer a more relaxed atmosphere, with fewer crowds and less pressure to conform to tourist expectations. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with popular places, like Edinburgh Castle, but Edinburgh is also filled with corners that don’t make it to the spotlight—and that’s exactly why they’re worth visiting. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I hope you get to revisit Edinburgh one day as there’s always something new and exciting to see and discover. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  32. Even though I lived near Cramond, I haven’t visited any of these hidden gems (apart from the outside of the bank). What a great guide to the less touristy parts of a beautiful city!

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    1. Thank you, dear Kerry. When I travel with the girls, I prefer to visit lesser-known areas as they offer a more peaceful and relaxed environment for exploration. I find that accommodation, food, and activities are more affordable in areas with fewer tourists – fortunately, there are lots of them in Edinburgh. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva x

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    1. Thank you kindly. I am glad you enjoyed them. I find that navigating unfamiliar situations and interacting with locals in a less touristy environment can broaden your horizons and enhance your travel experience. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva x

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