Local Info

As one of the world's great cities, Edinburgh is always at the head of every list of places to visit, whether for a short break in Scotland, a weekend break in Edinburgh or places to hold a conference in Scotland. Once you have visited Edinburgh you will know why this is the case.

It is set in a spectacular natural environment with hills to the north and south, water to the north and east and lowland landscape to west and east.

Calton Hill, Edinburgh The very heart of the city is dominated by ancient volcanic plugs that today form Corstorphine and Calton hills, Arthur's Seat and Castle hill.

Based on this natural splendour the architecture of the city gives you the best – and some of the worst – buildings from the 15th century onwards, the 10-storey flats from the 18th century, the Georgian elegance of the new town, the Victorian gothic of the city chambers. There is much to admire.

Edinburgh is not just about buildings. The history of its people is central to its character; Kings, Queens, priests, lawyers, poets, writers, murderers, thieves, body snatchers, doctors, artists, philosophers, statesmen and musicians have all helped form Edinburgh.

There are enough art galleries, museums, libraries, historic houses, castles, palaces and cathedrals to visit to occupy you for years without seeing the same thing twice.

Performing arts are showcased at the annual festival in August. Here over 6000 separate performances in a huge range of venues take place in 21 days. Outside this period the pace is less hectic but the range just as wide. Opera, ballet, theatre, classical music, jazz, West End musical theatre and pop and rock bands perform every week in Edinburgh. Sports enthusiasts are well catered for with professional football and rugby teams in the city, the Commonwealth Games pool and stadium, bowling greens by the hundred, 72 golf courses within the city boundaries and double that within 40 minutes drive. Whether for watching or participating Edinburgh can offer you what you want.