Insider Tips
Our Front of House team would be delighted to assist you with any travel plans and insider wisdom on how best to explore the enchanted city of Edinburgh, as well as a wide variety of other requests. We look forward to welcoming you to our hotel on Edinburgh’s iconic George Street and whether you are here on business or visiting for pleasure, our dedicated team will do everything we can to make your stay as comfortable and relaxing as possible.
As a handy guide we have our own specially designed map so you can easily choose the best places to visit and if you have only a short time in this beautiful city, our Front of House team is here to help you make the most of every hour.
Morning
After enjoying a hearty full Scottish breakfast, take the opportunity to walk it off by scaling Edinburgh’s highest point, Arthur’s Seat. The views from here on a good day are spectacular. Make your way back past the Palace of Holyrood and through the Old Town towards Edinburgh Castle, exploring the intricate cobbled streets of Edinburgh’s past, stopping in for some tea and scones at one of the many traditional tearooms on the Royal Mile.
Afternoon
Take a short train journey to Dalmeny and take a short stroll down the hill to the wonderful and picturesque village of South Queensferry. Here is afforded excellent views of the three bridges, including the famous Forth Rail Bridge, voted Scotland’s greatest man-made wonder, that span the Firth of Forth and connect Edinburgh with its neighbours in Fife. Finish your visit with some local fish and chips while admiring the views in one of the many pubs.
Evening
Take the bus to the Shore in Leith, home of the Royal Yacht Britannia, a vivacious area jam-packed with delicious delis, chic drinking spots, and top restaurants boasting some of Scotland’s finest chefs. After enjoying dining to rival the world’s best, take a stroll along the shore and pay a visit to one of the many traditional public houses and enjoy an evening of whisky, music and local banter.
Tips & Tricks
Getting around town in Edinburgh is accessible for everyone and often recommended on foot so you are sure not to miss the beautiful scenery. But should the 7 hills get the better of you there are many other options including a regular bus and tram network. Both the bus and tram network accept electronic payments.
We have our fair share of sunshine, but experiencing the four seasons in one day is not uncommon here so it’s advisable to bring extra layers, an umbrella and a water-proof jacket. However, there are plenty of shops selling suitable weather gear for all occasions should you wish to minimise your outbound packing.
No matter what time of year you choose to stay in Edinburgh, a good pair of comfortable walking shoes is essential.
If you own a ‘real’ camera we recommend you bring it with you, for the scenery and architecture are just too good to not capture with the right lens and a bit of photographic artistry.
Our team are ready and waiting to help you create the perfect trip to Edinburgh and we would be delighted to hear from you.
Our distinguished hotel, so full of stories, charm and character, is part of the neoclassic New Town developed in the 18th century to house Edinburgh’s growing population and is the largest area of Georgian architecture in Europe. On the list of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage sites since 1995, the district represents a remarkable blend of two urban phenomena: organic medieval growth and 18-19th century town planning.
Ancient Rome
Like Ancient Rome, Edinburgh was built on seven hills, these being: Carlton Hill, Castle Rock, Corstorphine Hill, Craiglockart Hill, Braid Hill, Blackford Hill and Arthur’s Seat.
Athens of the North
Edinburgh is also known as “Athens of the North”, as a reference to the ancient Greek-inspired architecture that can be found in the New Town.
World-renowned authors
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was born in Edinburgh and is one of many world-renowned authors to call Edinburgh his home, including our very own Susan Ferrier who lived at No. 25 George Street.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is built on an extinct volcano and the Royal Mile which runs down from the Castle to the Palace of Holyrood House is a result of glaciation. The Royal Mile is in fact, 1.12 miles long.
St James Quarter
The ultimate dining and retail destination in Edinburgh, St James Quarter launched in June 2021 and is located less than 10 minutes walk from InterContinental Edinburgh The George.
Johnnie Walker Princes Street
Explore the flavours of Scotland at Johnnie Walker Princes Street, an experience set across eight floors in the heart of Edinburgh. Opening planned summer 2021, stay tuned.