Things to see and do Edinburgh

The National Trust for Scotland (NTS) is a charitable organization dedicated to the conservation and promotion of Scotland's national heritage. Many sites are supported by the NTS. It is possible to become a donor member of the association and to enter, free or at a reduced rate, the sites for one year for £66/adult (online payment). The site, very well done, highlights the sites by categories, atmospheres, etc: perfect to find inspiration!

Outdoor and interior park for the whole family with a mini-farmhouse where cows, goats, llamas, horses, rabbits… Little train tour of the park, go for children…

This powerful fortress was built facing the sea in the 14th century by the Douglas Dynasty, who repeatedly opposed the crown. James IV and V both besieged and damaged it, as did Oliver Cromwell during his invasion of the country. It was then abandoned to birds and wild flowers. Today, its beautiful red stone ruins are scrolling up the cliffs for splendid views of Bass Rock and a small jump into the site's sulphurous past. It is also a well-known film location for moviegoers.

Craigmillar Castle is nicknamed "Edinburgh's other castle", located just 1 mile from the outer walls of Old Town. Mary Queen of Scotts used it as a refuge in 1566, but a year later its owner, Sir Simon Preston, became the Queen's jailer. Among its points of interest are the splendid view from the tower, but also the almost labyrinthine aspect of the castle, conferred by the multiplication of rooms, or the remains of a pond. As is often the case, a children's quiz makes the family visit more enjoyable.

Dalmeny House was built in 1817 in a Gothic style and belongs to the Primrose de Rosebery family. It houses beautiful interiors decorated with portraits and porcelain, as well as an interesting collection of Napoleonic objects, one of the largest of its kind in Britain. The beautiful backdrop is a large park and the Firth of Forth. Entry to the house is by small groups only, on a guided tour (in English). In high season and to be sure to see the inside of the house, consider booking.

Welcome to the world of the Edinburgh bourgeoisie, at No. 7 Charlotte Square. The Georgian House is a daily newspaper in New Town, in a classic house by architect James Craig. Throughout the plays, we immerse ourselves in the customs of the time, thanks to adapted furnishings and staging. The five families who have lived here in succession have all left their mark, from the Lamont to the Bute. We follow their typical days and those of their maidservants, from the musical education of young girls to social gatherings, including the preparation of refined dishes in the huge kitchen.

The building alone is worth a visit: in a nugget of the Gothic Renaissance of 1890, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery contains some 3,000 paintings and sculptures. It is home to some 3,000 paintings and sculptures, most of which depict the great figures of Scotland's historical and cultural landscape, from Mary Stuart and Sean Connery to Sir Walter Scott, David Hume and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Linger in the superb Great Hall, which precedes 13 galleries, a library and a photo exhibition.

Welcome to this house from the 1600s. First go upstairs to discover what life in Edinburgh was like in the 17th century through an exhibition. Take a pose in a period costume, then, now that you are in the spirit of the place, go to the first floor and its fully furnished apartment. It's as if you've traveled back in time! Admire the sumptuous canopy bed, the upright dining room, the study cabinet.... Voluntary guides or descriptive sheets reveal the secrets of this beautiful residence.

This church, which had begun renovation work in 1991, is special in many respects. The famous King David, who saw a white stag crowned with a cross, is represented here everywhere, which gives the perfect opportunity to (re)discover the story. It also houses a Second World War memorial chapel where a glass box with Dunkirk sand is displayed in commemoration of the D-Day landings. Finally, it is recognized as the capital's military church and is the one adopted by the Royal Scots (Royal Regiment) in 1983.

This secret garden, hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the Royal Mile, is also known as Dunbar's close. We would also like to call it a "pocket garden"! Surrounded on one side by the walls of Canongate kirk, it is composed in the spirit of a 17th century garden, it offers the happy impression of having discovered a hidden jewel. Its limited surface area makes it a cocoon carved with topiaries, boxwood lace, flower beds and trees. Some benches invite you to relax, far from the noise of the adjacent street which, then, seems very distant....

Discover Edinburgh in a vintage bus, just enough retro to be full of charm. Two tours are available all year round: the Afternoon Tea Tour (or its variant with gin), which will invite you to indulge in gourmet delicacies as well as to observe the capital (a scone in hand, what else!) and the Harry Potter Tour, following in the footsteps of the sites that inspired J.K. Rowling. It's a good way to get a first glimpse of the city. Good plan: the adult "Afternoon Tea Tour" ticket includes a free seat for one child (under 16 years old).

Independent French tour guide company founded by Karine Savage, based in Scotland since 2016, offering historical guided tours of Edinburgh's Old Town and New Town. In partnership with various guides, the company offers other themed tours. Ghosts, the worlds of Harry Potter and Outlander, whisky, gastronomy, the port of Leith and a visit while jogging, treasure hunts, family fun tours...

The Tron Kirk is an old church, built between 1636 and 1647. Its imposing spire can be seen from all over the city, making it the meeting point for the Hogmanay festival. It was here that goods and goods were weighed, as were souls, in a way, since criminals were punished. After having survived the centuries as best it could, it came under the temporary control of the Edinburgh World Heritage. The organization offers an exhibition on Scotland's historical and landscape treasures: an excellent introduction to refine your stay!