Edinburgh - City Guide
Eating
Budget: Zinc Bar and Grill (Unit 42, Ocean Terminal).
One of Terence Conran’s latest projects, this place offers commendable
food in stylish surroundings.
Mid-range: The Tower (in the museum of Scotland,
Chambers St, The New Town, 0131 2253003). Using all local ingredients the
chef produces a wide range of delicious food including roasts, steaks, seafood
and sushi. Restaurant at the Bonham (35 Drumsheugh Gardens, 0131 6239319).
Serving Scottish – Continental food this restaurant has an impressive
interior and varied menu.
Luxury: Martin Wishart (54 The Shore, Leith,
0131 553 3557). Fantastic cuisine with a French style. The only restaurant
in the area with a Michelin star.
Drinking
There are a wide range of pubs and bars in the city centre. If you are looking
for a traditional experience visit Deacon Brodie’s Tavern (435 Lawnmarket).
The tavern is open until the early hours on the weekend and also offers light
meals.
The Café Royal Circle Bar (17 w Register Street) is probably Edinburgh’s
most famous pub. An opulent venue with traditional Victorian features.
There are also plenty of contemporary bar/clubs including Po Na Na (43 b Frederick
St) and Revolution (31 Lothian Rd).
Things to See & Do
- National Gallery of Scotland: (2, The Mound, 0131 6246200). A fantastic
art collection, including Raphaels and Botticellis.
National Museum of Scotland: (Chambers Street, 0131 2257534). Consisting of
six galleries housing thousands of items, some of the rocks date as far back
as 2.9 billion years ago.
- Edinburgh Castle: Scotland’s most popular attraction. The Castle is
very well preserved and provides a very interesting insight into its royal
residents in the past and military history in general.
- Edinburgh Zoo: Containing more than 1500 animals, many of which are endangered
species. The Zoo is situated ten minutes from Edinburgh’s city centre
in 80 acres of hillside parkland.
Shopping
New Town’s Princes Street is still the main shopping area, housing the
majority of larger department stores. Nearby, at St Andrew’s Square
Harvey Nichols has taken up residence. George Street and the Royal Mile have
a more traditional atmosphere, where you will be able to find luxurious gifts
and the like. For funky gifts and gadgets visit Cockburn Street and the Grassmarket.
Beyond the City
- Pentland Hills: At the south of the city these hills provide a worthwhile
walk and wonderful views across the city.
- Roslin: 8 miles south of the city lies Roslin Glen and a 15th century chapel
founded by a Prince of Orkney. The scenery in this area is breathtaking, and
well worth making a trip for.
Cost of Living
One-litre bottle of mineral water - £0.80
33cl bottle of beer - £1.40
36-exposure colour film - £4.99
City-centre bus ticket - £0.80
Adult football ticket - From £18.20
Three-course meal with wine/beer - From £25
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