Edinburgh — Travelrags

Lonely PlanetAug 24, 2026

The 8 Best Castles to Visit in Scotland

From Edinburgh to Eilean Donan, the best castles in Scotland for fascinating history, beautiful architecture, rugged settings, royal heritage and gory stories.

14 things in this story

Edinburgh CastleSightFires the One O'Clock Gun tradition dating to 1861.
Princes Street GardensSightSeparates Edinburgh's Old and New Towns.
Elsewhere
Balmoral CastleAttractionBallater, United KingdomRoyal-owned castle with public ballroom and gardens.
Dunrobin CastleTrain stationGolspie, United KingdomConical spires overlook formal gardens and Moray Firth.
Stirling CastleAttractionStirling, United KingdomWitnessed about 20 sieges and battles.
Eilean DonanSightKyle of Lochalsh, United KingdomReconstructed medieval towers on a rocky islet.
Dunnotar CastleSightStonehaven, United KingdomMedieval fortification on North Sea coast cliffs.
Aberdeenshire Coastal PathTrailStonehaven, United KingdomPath from Stonehaven to Dunnotar Castle.
Cawdor CastleSightCawdor, United KingdomFeatures fairy-tale rooms, gardens, and a medieval tower.
Big WoodTrailCawdor, United KingdomNature trails lead from Cawdor Castle gardens.
Glamis CastleAttractionGlamis, United KingdomSetting for much of Shakespeare's Macbeth.
Blair CastleAttractionBlair Atholl, United KingdomWhitewashed Scots Baronial masterpiece in Cairngorms foothills.
Braemar CastleAttractionBraemar, United Kingdom17th-century castle in the Cairngorms.
Inveraray CastleAttractionInveraray, United KingdomAncestral seat with tubular towers and witch-hat spires.

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The New York TimesAug 30

In Scotland, Luxury Hotel Gleneagles Offers a Posh Summer Camp for Grown-Ups

It’s the mix of lush adventures by day and elegant dinners by night that makes the luxury hotel Gleneagles, outside Edinburgh, so tempting.

The GuardianAug 15

‘I don’t even drink whisky’: Scotland reels in visitors as much of Europe swelters

More direct flights from North America and, say tourism chiefs, Highland warriors and Tartan Army have helped For the tourist industry, 2026 has been a rocky year, with war, EU border delays, climate and economic woes gnawing away at holiday plans. But while much of Britain is feeling the loss of visitors from the Middle East and beyond, one part is thriving. Scotland is reeling in ever more vi…

7 things in this story

Johnnie Walker ExperienceSightvisited by a tourist from Mexico City
Princes StreetNeighborhoodparticularly teeming with tourists in August
military tattooHosteltickets purchased by a tourist
Edinburgh Bus ToursPlaceemploying a guide for seven years
Elsewhere
Commonwealth GamesPublic artworkGlasgow, United Kingdomhosted in Glasgow this year
CairngormsSightScotland, United Kingdomsuffered devastating wildfires
Ardross CastleSightScotland, United Kingdommain location for The Traitors

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Lonely PlanetAug 9

20 things to know before visiting Edinburgh

Discover what you need to know to get more from a trip to Edinburgh, from the best times to go to the local etiquette.

25 things in this story

St. Margaret's WellSightEvidence of freshwater springs in Holyrood Park.
Holyrood ParkParkExplore this park, home to Arthur's Seat.
Royal MileSightMain street of the Old Town, stretching from castle.
PortobelloNeighborhoodA beach strip 3 miles east of the center.
Edinburgh CastleSightTrain passengers arrive minutes from here.
Royal Edinburgh Military TattooHostelBook tickets well in advance.
Arthur's SeatTrailHike to the top for views; requires comfortable shoes.
National Galleries of ScotlandGalleryComprises four art museums.
Princes Street GardensSightValley separating Old and New Towns; formerly a loch.
Edinburgh Festival FringeFestivalBook accommodation six months ahead for August.
Edinburgh International FestivalFestivalWorld's biggest arts festival, takes over the city every August.
Calton HillParkOffers good views during the day; avoid at night.
Water of Leith WalkwayTrailFollow this walkway; requires comfortable shoes.
Old TownTrain stationCobbles get slippery when wet or icy; wear waterproof shoes.
LeithSuburbFormer port, now steadily gentrifying.
HogmanayFestivalIt is normally followed by further celebration on the morning of New Year's Day and, in some cases, 2 January—a…
Edinburgh City PassPlaceCovers attractions like Edinburgh Castle and Royal Yacht Britannia.
West EndNeighborhoodA fairly smart neighborhood.
SouthsideNeighborhoodA low-key and studenty neighborhood.
Dr Neil's GardenGardenA less-seen sight discovered by walking.
Central TaxisPlaceA taxi company option for getting around.
CowgateNeighborhoodThe street is part of the lower level of Edinburgh's Old Town, which lies below the elevated streets of South Bridge…
Rose StreetNeighborhoodIt is a narrow street running parallel between Princes Street and George Street.
New TownSuburb
Lothian RoadNeighborhood

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The GuardianAug 7

How to explore Britain and Ireland’s most beautiful rivers on foot, bike or boat: readers’ travel tips

Our rivers may be running low at the moment, but they still offer an abundance of adventure and nature to explore. Here are your favourites, from the Tees to the Shannon • Tell us about a favourite holiday in the UK – the best tip wins a £200 holiday voucher Last summer, I enjoyed a six-mile walk along the fast-flowing River Wharfe from Ilkley to Bolton Abbey, with calming vistas of the Yorkshi…

19 things in this story

Dean VillageSuburbIt is bounded by Belford Road to the south and west, Belgrave Crescent Gardens to the north and below the Dean Bridge…
Water of Leith WalkwayTrail13-mile riverside journey through Edinburgh
Water of Leith Conservation TrustPlaceCares for the Water of Leith Walkway
St Bernard's WellSight
Elsewhere
River WharfePlaceIlkley, United KingdomSix-mile walk from Ilkley to Bolton Abbey
Yorkshire DalesNeighborhoodYorkshire, United KingdomCalming vistas seen from River Wharfe walk
Riverside GardensParkIlkley, United KingdomStarting point for walk on River Wharfe's south bank
River BurePlaceNorfolk, United KingdomThe Bure rises near Melton Constable, 11 miles (18 km) upstream of Aylsham, which was the original head of navigation.
BelaughNeighborhoodNorfolk, United KingdomQuintessentially English village on the River Bure
St Benet's AbbeySightNorfolk, United KingdomRomantic ruins accessible from the River Bure
Roys of WroxhamMarketWroxham, United KingdomWorld's largest village store for restocking supplies
Sowe Valley FootpathTrailCoventry, United Kingdom8½-mile riverside trail near Coventry city centre
River SowePlaceCoventry, United KingdomTributary of the Avon, runs through Coventry
River WellandPlaceMarket Harborough, United Kingdom65-mile river followed from source to sea
Rockingham CastleSightCorby, United KingdomNear Corby, passed on River Welland walk
Boston StumpPlace of worshipBoston, United KingdomSt Botolph's church, grew larger as river met sea
Grand CanalPlaceShannon Harbour, IrelandWalked as children, meets River Shannon
River ShannonPlaceShannon Harbour, IrelandIrish river, landscape changes utterly
McIntyre'sRestaurantShannon Harbour, IrelandPub for Irish tapas, open whatever the weather

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Condé Nast TravelerAug 5

An Edinburgh Fringe Veteran on His Favorite Spots Around the Festival

Comedian Phil Wang tells us where to eat and drink throughout Fringe this year—plus the best shows you can still book.

15 things in this story

Dean VillageSuburbIt is bounded by Belford Road to the south and west, Belgrave Crescent Gardens to the north and below the Dean Bridge…
Noodles and DumplingsRestaurantBest wonton noodle soup, handmade noodles, pull-apart platters.
Mosque KitchenRestaurantInstitution with big portions of curry and nans.
Macau KitchenRestaurantOnly Macanese restaurant in the UK, unusual food.
Pleasance CourtyardSightAccessible, buzzy outdoor bar area with unmatched energy.
Summer HallSightOld medical school with a courtyard pub, Royal Dick.
Brass MonkeyPubBeautiful pub with nooks, crannies, and cushioned floor area.
Monkey Barrel ComedyTheatreFantastic standup room, professional, shows newer and weirder acts.
Pleasance BeneathSightRoom in Pleasance Courtyard, not hot, exciting shows.
Museum of ScotlandMuseumThe National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, Scotland, is a museum of Scottish history and culture.
Calton HillParkClassic spot with beautiful city views, not too strenuous.
Ed Night: We'll Be Alright, DarlingPlaceClever, insightful, and silly stand-up show.
Bella Hull: Mad Cow DiseasePlaceHilarious, self-deprecating stand-up from a writer on SNL UK.
Joseph Morpurgo: Highlander 70PlaceHilarious show built around found objects and old photos.
Pierre Novellie: Okay, One More Then BedtimePlaceHighbrow observational comedy about everyday life and society.

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Lonely PlanetAug 3

8 things to do in Edinburgh and the best way to do them

The top things to do in Edinburgh take in royal treasures, scenic viewpoints and secret quarters. Here are our favorite ways to enjoy the city.

25 things in this story

Royal MileSightCobblestone artery from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Park.
St Giles' CathedralPlace of worshipThe existing building was begun in the 14th century and extended until the early 16th century; significant alterations…
Scottish Storytelling CentreArts centreIt was formally opened on 1 June 2006 by Patricia Ferguson MSP, Minister for Culture in the Scottish Executive.
Canongate TolboothMuseumIt ceased to be a municipal building in 1856 and it is…
Scottish Parliament BuildingSightConstruction of the building commenced in June 1999 and the Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) held their first…
National Museum of ScotlandMuseumGalleries cover everything from Ancient Egypt to Scots.
Dean VillageSuburbHistoric mills along a peaceful riverside path.
StockbridgeSuburbEnjoy finest pubs, restaurants, and independent stores.
Royal Botanic Garden EdinburghGardenGreen bower with rock gardens, twisted trees, glasshouses.
PortobelloNeighborhoodEnd-of-the-pier hijinks, promenade, fish and chips.
CramondSuburbLow-tide excursions to a castaway island with gun bunkers.
Lauriston CastleAttractionScottish tower house overlooking the Firth of Forth.
Edinburgh CastleSightRoyal fortress with Scottish crown jewels and chapel.
Royal Edinburgh Military TattooHostelSpectacle of pipes, drums, dancers on Castle Esplanade.
Arthur's SeatTrailMini mountain with ruined chapel, lake, sweeping views.
St Anthony's ChapelSight15th-century ruins near Arthur's Seat.
Dunsapie LochSightExcavated in 1844 near Arthur's Seat.
National Galleries of ScotlandGalleryFour buildings with art collection, contemporary Scottish art.
Princes Street GardensSightVictorian-era Ross Fountain and gardens.
1820 Rooftop BarRestaurantCastle vista from Johnnie Walker Experience.
Johnnie Walker ExperienceSightDevoted to the famous whisky brand.
Edinburgh Festival FringeFestivalMonth-long celebration of the arts in August.
Edinburgh International FestivalFestivalWide-ranging festival in August.
Edinburgh International Film FestivalFestivalFestival in August.
Palace of HolyroodhouseSight

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AfarJul 16

From California to Scotland, These 8 Beaches Are Raising the Bar for Accessibility

Disabled travelers share eight beaches around the world where thoughtful design, inclusive amenities, and accessible infrastructure make it easier for more people to enjoy the coast. Accessibility ...

10 things in this story

Torrance BeachSightTorrance, United Stateshome to the first beach evacuation warning system in the world
Loggerhead Marinelife CenterSightJuno Beach, United Statesoffers dedicated ASL programs led by a deaf staff biologist
Chesterman BeachSightTofino, Canadaremarkably flat with a vast expanse of wet sand at low tide
Wickaninnish InnHotelTofino, Canadaone of the trails to Chesterman Beach winds near it
St. Andrews Beach WheelchairsPlaceSt. Andrews, United Kingdomfree to book online, donations encouraged
Bruce EmbankmentSightSt. Andrews, United Kingdomhas a Changing Places toilet
Las Vistas BeachSightTenerife, Spaingenerous, relaxed accessible area part of the beach experience
BEELS (Beach Emergency Evacuation Lights System)SightTorrance, United Statesbeach evacuation warning system for deaf and hard-of-hearing beachgoers
Pinnacle GulchSightSonoma County, United Stateslow tide reveals rocky outcrops teeming with marine life
West SandsSightSt. Andrews, United Kingdomhired a beach wheelchair for access

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Condé Nast TravelerJan 6

BookTok Fans Can Walk in the Footsteps of "People We Meet on Vacation" With This New Tour

Best-selling books are inspiring the next wave of group travel, taking readers from Dubrovnik to Edinburgh and everywhere in between.

13 things in this story

Poppy WrightPlaceProtagonist of 'People We Meet on Vacation'.
Alex NilsenPlaceBest friend of Poppy Wright in the novel.
EF Ultimate BreakPlaceOffers BookTok-inspired tours including a Croatia cruise.
Harry PotterPlaceYour wizarding (and book nerd) dreams are about to come true on this magical adventure.
Percy JacksonPlaceCalling all demigods, magicians, and mortal travelers—get ready to meet your fellow bookworms and ancient history nerds…
Fourth WingPlaceTwo thrilling realms, one irl fantasy.
A Court of Thrones and RosesPlaceCross the Wall and step into a realm that feels plucked straight from Prythian itself—where snow-dusted peaks rival the…
Platform 9¾SightA stop on the Harry Potter tour in London.
GetYourGuidePlaceOffers a Sherlock Holmes-themed walking tour of London.
CunardPlaceOffers a 2026 Literature Festival at Sea cruise.
VrboPlaceOffers 'readaways' as a 2026 travel trend.
Eat, Pray, LovePlaceBook inspiring travel experiences.
Crying in H MartPlaceBook that EF Ultimate Break would love to base a tour on.

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Atlas ObscuraDec 10, 2025

St. Margaret's Well in Edinburgh, Scotland

Prior to society relying on medically trained physicians and practitioners, communities would often seek out laymen known as healers or herbalists for treatments and cures. This is not to imply the latter lacked expertise and knowhow, rather they were more likely to invoke remedies based on superstition rather prescribing methods based on science. Take for instance the usage of holy wells as me…

3 sights in this story

St. Margaret's WellSight15th century well moved stone by stone
Holyrood ParkParkIt has an array of hills, lochs, glens, ridges, basalt cliffs, and patches of gorse, providing a wild piece of highland…
St. Triduana ChapelSightThis unusual 15th-century house of worship once catered to those who sought its healing properties.

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Condé Nast TravelerNov 12, 2025

The Best Hotels in Edinburgh (2025)

From grande dames to modern apartments, these are the best places to stay in the Scottish capital.

27 things in this story

The Pavilion at Lamb’s HouseHotelRestored home in heart of Leith
The HoxtonHotelFirst Scottish opening in Haymarket
The Balmoral HotelBarThis grand dame is a fitting stay in a city known for its history and beauty.
100 Princes StreetHotelPlush seclusion with personal service
Intercontinental Edinburgh The GeorgeHotelSpread across five adjoining townhouses
The Witchery by the CastleRestaurantGothic castle style suites
The BalmoralBarImposing 190-foot clock tower
Brasserie PrinceRestaurantFrench techniques cook Scottish ingredients
The WallaceHotelLeather-walled lounge with vintage globes
Burr & Co caféCaféPopular café opposite Assembly Rooms
Gleneagles TownhouseHotelMembers' club functions as a hotel
Cheval The Edinburgh GrandHotel50 family-friendly apartments
HawksmoorRestaurantSteak restaurant in the vaults
Kimpton Charlotte Square HotelHotelSet designed with attention to detail
Eden LockeHotelAparthotel with hipster design
Hyde & SonRestaurantCoffee shop transforms into lively bar
Virgin Hotels EdinburghHotelStay at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh to experience unique chambers and suites.
Commons Club Restaurant and BarRestaurantOutstanding food and drinks
Apex Waterloo Place HotelHotelRefurbished rooms with contemporary decor
W EdinburghHotelPostmodern mischief design
FingalHotelLuxury floating hotel
The RoseateHotelLuxury hotel with classic charm
PatatinoRestaurant
Patatino restaurantRestaurant
Penicuik EstateSight
33 Castle TerraceHotel
House of GodsBar

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Condé Nast TravelerOct 10, 2025

Ask a Local: Literary Edinburgh According to Poet Marcas Mac an Tauineir

The poet in residence at the Balmoral shares his guide to the Scottish capital.

25 things in this story

GrassmarketNeighborhoodElides into Fountainbridge, has three bookshops
FountainbridgeSuburbNexus point for three second-hand bookshops
Armchair BooksMarketPLEASE NOTE: If you stop by during opening hours and the shop is closed, something happened last-minute and we couldn’t…
Amnesty International BookshopMarketRecommends for Gaelic literature in Marchmont
MarchmontSuburbIt lies roughly one mile south of the Old Town, separated from it by The Meadows and Bruntsfield Links.
Makar's CourtSightHas memorial slab for Duncan Bàn MacIntyre
Harvey NicholsPlaceLuxury department store, Harvey Nichols, offers designer fashion, beauty, food & wine both online and in-store…
Rutherford BarRestaurantOld haunt of RL Stephenson on Drummond Street
Armstrongs VintageMarketSignature shop in Grassmarket has vintage fashion
Balmoral, A Rocco Forte HotelHotelThis grand dame is a fitting stay in a city known for its history and beauty.
Bethany Christian TrustSightCharity shop in Leith for bargains
National LibraryMuseumHas recurring exhibitions on Scotland's literary world
Central LibraryMuseumBest lending library with vaulted ceilings
Edinburgh BooksMarket
Main Point BooksMarket
Duncan Bàn MacIntyrePlace
Lorimer and GilliesPlace
St Andrew SquareSight
McLachlan and StewartPlace
South BridgeSight
Ciao RomaRestaurant
Drummond StreetSight
RL StephensonPlace
Edinburgh University Debating SocietyPlace
Royal National MòdFestival

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National GeographicNov 17, 2019

Edinburgh Travel Guide

How to spend a day in the footsteps of Edinburgh's literary greats Why Edinburgh is Europe's ultimate escape for book-lovers Why Edinburgh is Europe's ultimate escape for book-lovers ...

1 sight in this story

Royal MileSighthistoric street with a postcard-perfect castle

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