City of Edinburgh – This is the Grand Britain

Arthur's Seat

This extinct volcano is located in Holyrood Park and offers stunning panoramic views of the city. It is a popular hiking spot and a great place to take in Edinburgh's natural beauty.

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

This beautiful garden is located in the heart of the city and is home to over 13,000 plant species from around the world. It is a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

The City of Edinburgh

WELCOME TO edinburgh

Province Overview

Main city

edinburgh

AREA

1,828 km²

POPULATION

536,775

Main language

English

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress and former royal residence located in Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland. The castle sits atop Castle Rock, an extinct volcano, and has been a significant part of Edinburgh's skyline for centuries. The castle's origins date back to the 12th century, but it has undergone many additions and renovations over the years. It has served various functions throughout its history, including as a royal palace, military barracks, and a prison.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a famous street in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland. It runs from Edinburgh Castle at the top of the hill down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the bottom. The street is approximately one mile long, hence its name. The Royal Mile is lined with historic buildings, including St. Giles' Cathedral, the City Chambers, and many other important landmarks. It is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and pubs, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The Scottish Parliament

Scottish Parliament is located in the heart of Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland. It's easily accessible by public transportation, and there are also several parking options nearby. Once you arrive, you can take a guided tour of the building, which will give you a behind-the-scenes look at how the Scottish Parliament operates. You'll also have the opportunity to learn about the history of Scottish democracy and the role of the Parliament in modern Scottish society.

Political

Economy and Government

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and one of the largest financial centers in Europe. The city's economy is primarily driven by financial services, tourism, and technology industries. Edinburgh is home to many of Scotland's leading financial and banking institutions, such as the Royal Bank of Scotland, the Bank of Scotland, and Standard Life. The city also has a thriving technology sector, with companies such as Skyscanner, Fanduel, and FreeAgent having their headquarters in Edinburgh.

The Scottish government has a significant presence in Edinburgh, with the Scottish Parliament located in the city. The Scottish government is responsible for many aspects of Scottish life, including education, health, justice, and the economy. The Scottish government works closely with the City of Edinburgh Council to ensure that the city's economy is strong and sustainable.

The City of Edinburgh Council is responsible for many of the day-to-day operations of the city, including providing services such as waste collection, maintaining parks and public spaces, and managing the city's infrastructure. The council works closely with businesses and other organizations in the city to support economic growth and promote Edinburgh as a great place to live, work, and visit.

Overall, the Edinburgh economy and government are closely intertwined, with the government playing an important role in supporting the city's economic growth and development.

History

History and Culture

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland, located in the southeastern part of the country. The city has a rich history and culture that dates back over a thousand years.

The earliest evidence of human habitation in Edinburgh dates back to around 8500 BC. The first recorded settlement was a fortress built by the Gododdin tribe in the 7th century AD. The fortress was later taken over by the Angles, and eventually by the Scots in the 10th century.

During the Middle Ages, Edinburgh grew into an important trading center and was granted a royal charter by King David I in the 12th century. The city became the capital of Scotland in 1437, and over the next few centuries, it became a center of culture and learning, as well as a hub of political and economic power.

In the 18th century, Edinburgh played a key role in the Scottish Enlightenment, which saw the city become a center for philosophy, science, and literature. The city was also at the forefront of the Industrial Revolution in Scotland.

Today, Edinburgh is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. The city is home to many world-class museums and galleries, including the National Museum of Scotland, the Scottish National Gallery, and the Royal Botanic Garden.

Edinburgh is also famous for its annual festivals, including the Edinburgh International Festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. These events attract visitors from all over the world and showcase the best of Scottish culture, music, and performing arts.

The city is also home to many historic landmarks and buildings, such as Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the Royal Mile. These buildings are a testament to the city's rich architectural heritage and provide visitors with a glimpse into its storied past.

In addition to its cultural offerings, Edinburgh is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many pubs, clubs, and restaurants that offer a diverse range of food and drink options.

Overall, Edinburgh is a city with a rich history and vibrant culture that continues to attract visitors from all over the world.

HOTELS

The Balmoral Hotel

Located in the heart of Edinburgh on Princes Street, The Balmoral Hotel is one of the city's most iconic hotels. It has been a landmark in the city since 1902 and is known for its luxurious rooms, Michelin-starred restaurant, and impressive views of Edinburgh Castle.

The Caledonian, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel

Another iconic hotel located on Princes Street, The Caledonian is a 5-star hotel that has been welcoming guests since 1903. The hotel features elegant rooms, a spa, and a rooftop restaurant with views of the city.

The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa

Located in the heart of Edinburgh's financial district, The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa is a luxurious hotel with modern amenities. The hotel features spacious rooms, a rooftop spa, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the city.

RESTAURANTS

The Kitchin

The Kitchin is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in Leith, Edinburgh. It offers a modern Scottish cuisine, using locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients to create innovative and flavorful dishes. The restaurant has won several awards, including Best Restaurant in Scotland at the 2019 National Restaurant Awards.

The Witchery by the Castle

The Witchery by the Castle is an iconic restaurant located in a historic 16th-century building at the top of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, right next to the famous Edinburgh Castle. It offers a luxurious dining experience with a menu that features traditional Scottish dishes and locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant has won numerous awards, including the AA Restaurant of the Year Scotland in 2019-20.

Ondine

Ondine is a seafood restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, offering fresh, sustainably-sourced seafood dishes. The menu includes a range of dishes, from classic fish and chips to more adventurous seafood dishes like octopus and squid. Ondine has won several awards, including Best Seafood Restaurant at the 2019 Scottish Food Awards.