Edinburgh - Top 5 Things To Do On A #ukdayout

 

Top 5 things to do in Edinburgh

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Edinburgh, from stunning architecture and endless winding streets to an awe-inspiring castle perched on a dormant volcano.

By day you can admire artworks in galleries and treasured wonders in museums, and by night you can enjoy tours, musical and theatre performances, or find your favourite dram in a charming whisky pub.

Edinburgh is Scotland's capital; a city filled with history, culture, engaging attractions and beautiful architecture. Spend your time exploring its cobbled streets, hidden closes, world-class festivals and lively food and drink scene. Find out what makes Edinburgh so special, from its status as a UNESCO City of Literature and UNESCO World Heritage Site, to being named one of Time Out's top cities in the world. 

1- Explore Edinburgh Castle

Perched atop Castle Rock overlooking the city, this should be a must-see on your list of places to visit in Edinburgh. Edinburgh Castle houses important Scottish artefacts, such as the Honours of Scotland -  which are the oldest crown jewels in the UK - and The Stone of Destiny, an ancient symbol of the Scottish monarchy. Explore the vast castle grounds, take a guided tour with a castle steward, or listen to the audio guide, which is available in eight languages.

#ukdayout tip: Tickets often sell out quickly, especially during the summer months. Make sure to book early to avoid disappointment! Listen out for the firing of the One O'Clock Gun from the castle grounds, which can be heard daily (except on Sundays). Ships in the Firth of Forth once set their maritime clocks according to the sound of the shot.

Get Your Tickets: Edinburgh Castle

2- Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

This top attraction in Edinburgh is fun for all the family - we dare you not to be amazed, whatever your age. There are five floors of interactive curiosities and illusions to explore, so lose yourself in the puzzling mirror maze or try to keep your balance in the exhilarating Vortex Tunnel.

#ukdayout tip: Be sure to get an allocated show time so you don't miss out on seeing the 169-year-old Camera Obscura in action. This Victorian spectacle is a truly unique way to see Edinburgh and takes sightseeing to the next level.

Get Your Tickets: Camera Obscura

3- Taste the finest drams at Johnnie Walker Princes Street

The flagship Johnnie Walker Princes Street is spread across eight floors and is the capital's newest hotspot, perfect for whisky lovers and novices alike. 

Complete with dining experiences, bars and a whisky retail area, book your personalised whisky experience where you can explore the flavours of Scotland. 

#ukdayout tip: Enjoy world-class cocktails and incredible views of the Edinburgh skyline at the 1820 rooftop bar.

Get Your Tickets: Personalised Whisky Experience

4- Brave the Edinburgh Dungeon

Looking for things to do in Edinburgh that are a little unusual? For a thrilling alternative adventure, visit The Edinburgh Dungeons, where you'll learn about the city's gruesome history. 

Walk the plague-ridden streets of 1645, evade the murderous duo Burke and Hare, and even face trial - good luck! With live actors, underground rides and special effects, you're guaranteed a 'spooktacular' time.

#ukdayout tip: The Edinburgh Dungeon often holds Dungeon Late events for adults, so if you're looking for things to do in Edinburgh at night, this could be it.

Get Your Tickets: The Edinburgh Dungeon

5- Climb Arthur's Seat and stroll through Holyrood Park

Perhaps one of the most iconic places to go in Edinburgh is Arthur's Seat, located within Holyrood Park. This ancient volcano sits 251m above sea level and offers 360-degree views of Edinburgh and the Lothians. You can see the medieval remains of St Anthony's Chapel or feed the ducks and swans on Duddingston Loch. 

There's an array of paths and trails to follow, suitable for all, including the trail to St Margaret's Loch which is both wheelchair and buggy accessible.

#ukdayout tip: Climbing up to the top of this dormant volcano is hungry work! Why not pack a picnic and enjoy it from the best 'seat' in Edinburgh?

Explore the best of the UK with our comprehensive guide to attractions, boating, cottages, days out, holiday parks, hotels and spa breaks.

Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway or an adventurous trip we have everything you need to make your UK holiday unforgettable.

Find out more at The British Holidays Booking Office - Home of the #ukstaycation

Forest fun on a shoestring

Forest fun on a shoestring -10 low-cost family fun ideas this winter

You don't need to spend a lot of money to enjoy adventures in the outdoors this winter. Read on to discover 10 low-cost winter activities in the nation's forests for the whole family this season brought to you by "Forestry England" - where will your #ukdayout take you...

1. Take some wintry snaps in your local forest 

The forest is a magical place during the winter months. The glistening blanket of frost, the crunching of leaves beneath your feet and that indescribable scent of winter in the air. Photograph a robin, red berries, frost-covered tree branches or even a steaming cup of hot chocolate by a bench. All you need is your mobile phone and a keen eye for photography...and the kids can join in too! - Find a Forest Near You

2. Celebrate The Gruffalo's 25th birthday

Pull on your wellies and waterproofs and join the party on our interactive family trail celebrating The Gruffalo's 25th birthday.

The trail feature all sorts of party-themed activities and games, along with fun facts about life in the forest for the Gruffalo and his friends. Activity packs are just £4 and for the whole month of December you can buy one and get another for free. - Find a Gruffalo Trail Near You

3. Unwind on a wellbeing trail

Escape the chaos of Christmas and head out on a wellbeing trail for a mindful stroll through the trees. The themed panels encourage you to pause, notice and connect with the forest environment around you. You can even download the forest wellbeing journal to get more from the experience, whether you’re at home or out in the forest. 

4. Take your dog for the ultimate Forest Walkies

Our canine friends love exploring the forest even in the depths of winter. Join Wallace and Gromit on our new trail, designed especially for man's best friend. Bond with your pooch by taking on dog-tastic challenges, solve crossword clues and have lots of fun along the way – with everyone’s favourite dog and owner duo for company. 

Activity packs are available from participating forests for £5 and include a tote bag, activity leaflet and even a bandana for your dog.

5. Download your free Gruffalo Spotters winter activity sheets

Winter doesn't have to stop you getting outside and learning about nature. Download your free activities and enjoy a day of frosty fun in the forest, or at home! - Get Your Gruffalo Pack

6. Enjoy a mini scavenger hunt 

Head out on a mini scavenger hunt and challenge your little (and not so little) ones to explore the forest and find things beginning with W, I, N, T, E and R! What natural treasures will they discover? The possibilities are endless. 

7. Bake some treats for a winter picnic 

Why not spend a couple of hours baking as a family, then pack up the picnic basket and head out for a forest picnic? Perfect for a bright winter day. Don’t forget to pack a blanket to sit on, some extra layers and a flask of hot tea! - Check out the recipes

8. Have a digital detox 

If one of your new year's resolutions is to limit screen time, encourage the kids to have a digital detox by downloading a few of our printable activities. Choose from a fantastic forest word search, some forest-themed colouring in sheets or Tree-Trumps plus loads more! No matter what age or ability, we want to inspire every generation to build a personal and lifelong connection with forests and these activities will allow you to do just that as a family. - Check out the non digital activity packs

9. Treat the family to a steaming cup of hot chocolate 

Head to your local forest cafe and indulge in a hot chocolate complete with cream and marshmallows! It’s a simple, low-cost treat and any younger visitors can let off some steam on a woodland walk whilst you’re there. - plan your visit

10. Try a Gruffalo orienteering course 

Discover new parts of the forest and learn something new with our Gruffalo-themed challenge. 

Use a simple map to find 12 Gruffalo markers hidden in the deep, dark wood. Answer questions along the way and gain valuable skills in decision making and map reading as you go. 

And if you're feeling competitive, choose to run, walk (or skip!) the course against the clock. 

Before you begin the trail, pick up a Gruffalo orienteering leaflet with a certificate and map for just £1.50. Find a Gruffalo Course Near You

Forestry England is an executive agency, sponsored by the Forestry Commission. Forestry England manages more land and trees than any other organisation in England. They provide hundreds of car parks, maintain thousands of miles of trails, and plant millions of trees.

Help us look after the forests you love - Whether you want to explore all our forests as a national member, or simply want to explore and support your local forest, we have a membership type to suit you. Find Out More

Explore the best of the UK with our comprehensive guide to attractions, boating, cottages, days out, holiday parks, hotels and spa breaks.

Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway or an adventurous trip we have everything you need to make your UK holiday unforgettable.

Find out more at The British Holidays Booking Office - Home of the #ukstaycation