Edinburgh Escapade - Exploring Scotland's Magical Capital

 

For my final blog, there were a few places to choose from, but Edinburgh stood out as the most deserving. I could have easily chosen Glasgow, however, Edinburgh has a unique charm, blending history with a captivating local vibe.

 I started my visit at Edinburgh Castle, which sits high on Castle Rock and has some amazing views over the city and the Firth of Forth. The exhibits inside offered a look at Scotland’s history, including the famous Stone of Destiny, which added a unique touch.

From there, I walked down the Royal Mile, the main street stretching from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It’s packed with street performers, historic sites, and quirky shops, giving a real taste of Edinburgh’s character. As I walked, it was hard not to notice the Harry Potter vibe – Edinburgh was the birthplace of the famous wizard. Many spots in the city inspired J.K. Rowling, including Victoria Street which inspired Diagon Alley, and the café where she wrote part of the books, The Elephant House.

One of the highlights was hiking up Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano with a fantastic view of the city. It’s a short but steep climb, and at the top, you can see for miles. It was refreshing to find such a peaceful spot right next to a bustling city, and it made for a great balance of nature and city exploration.

In the evening, I headed to Grassmarket, an area full of pubs and restaurants with a lively atmosphere. The local crowd and visitors alike fill the streets, making it a fun place to spend the night. I tried haggis, neeps, and tatties for the first time in ages in 'The Last Drop', which was delicious!

Edinburgh really combines its historic roots with a modern energy. One thing I really love about Edinburgh, is that you can see and experience some of its best attractions without having to pay.

You can feel the history everywhere, and there’s a definite magic to the place, whether you’re exploring Harry Potter landmarks or just soaking in the city’s vibe. I’ll return to walk its streets, hike its hills, and enjoy the friendly, laid-back energy again.