Holidays Travel

Travel with Rory King: Unveiling Edinburgh - Where rich history meets vibrant charm

Award winning travel expert Rory King of Rory's Travel Club explains why Edinburgh is such a brilliant short-break destination

I have been to Edinburgh twice. The most recent of these visits was a group trip with members of Rory’s Travel Club.

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or just someone looking for your next break way, this Scottish gem has got you covered.

A huge bonus is Ryanair and EasyJet both fly from Belfast and you can find return flights as cheap as £25.

Edinburgh is a city steeped in history, and you can practically feel its ancient tales echoing through the cobblestone streets.

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Edinburgh Castle is the number one attraction and not to be missed, offering not just breathtaking views of the city but also a great history lesson.

Dive into the city's whisky heritage at the Scotch Whisky Experience, which will take you through the whisky-making process. Then, sample an array of Scotland's finest malts and blends.

Edinburgh will also excite literature lovers. Stroll along the Royal Mile and discover the Writers' Museum, dedicated to the likes of Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. Harry Potter fans won't want to miss The Elephant House café, where J.K. Rowling penned her wizarding world masterpieces.

The city's beautiful old architecture is complemented by stunning green spaces. A visit to the Royal Botanic Garden is worth doing. Enjoy the spectacular landscapes, explore the glasshouses and find an escape from the bustling city.

If you time your visit for Halloween, brave souls seeking a spine-tingling experience can delve into Edinburgh's haunted history. Take a ghost tour through the city's eerie alleyways and hidden closes, where guides regale you with chilling stories of the city's dark past.

I definitely recommend doing the Edinburgh Dungeons Tour – it’s fantastic and one of the best tours I have ever done.

From the charming boutiques on Victoria Street to the bustling stalls of the Grassmarket, Edinburgh's shopping scene caters to all tastes.

Edinburgh is packed with great bars and restaurants, which should cater for every taste. A quick Google search will show you everything you need.

So, whether you're an explorer of history, an enthusiast of the arts, a lover of nature, or just someone looking for an unforgettable adventure, Edinburgh offers something for everyone.

With its rich culture and history, coupled with modern amenities and a warm embrace, I am confident you will love Edinburgh – a place that I think is often underestimated by too many people looking for a short-break destination.