Destination

For bucket-list ticking: Edinburgh Castle

A visit to the castle is a must for any Edinburgh first-timer. Sitting above Castle Rock at the end of the Royal Mile, it’s a world-famous attraction, and has played a fascinating role in Scottish history. The Stone of Destiny, or Stone of Scone, is a particular highlight. Its earliest origins are unknown, but this sacred object has been used for centuries in the inauguration of Scotland’s kings.

If you don’t have time to take a tour of the castle, you can still wander the Castle Esplanade, or listen to the One O’Clock Gun sound every day at 1pm. Can’t make it up to the castle for this? Find a spot in Princes Street Gardens. Trust us, you’ll hear it loud and clear!

For retail therapy: Multrees Walk and St James Quarter

Edinburgh is a haven for fans of luxury brands, independent stores and designer boutiques. Just five minutes from the hotel lies Multrees Walk – mecca for boutique luxury shopping. There’s Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and a Harvey Nichols Department Store, hosting brands such as Celine, Victoria Beckham, Balenciaga, Gucci, Christopher Kane, Marc Jacobs and Stella McCartney.

Multrees Walk leads through to the St James Quarter, a four-storey shopping centre packed with designer and high street favourites. Visit areas such as the West End, Stockbridge and the historic Grassmarket and Victoria Street for independent shopping and high-end souvenirs such as tartan and luxury fabrics, including Scottish fine wools and cashmere.

For a taste of Scotland: Johnnie Walker Princes Street

Discover the story of a world-famous whisky in the heart of Edinburgh. Awarded 5-star accreditation by Visit Scotland, this immersive whisky experience boasts a rooftop bar, private dining, and a selection of tours. Try cocktails made to match your flavour profile, or join tutored whisky tastings paired with luxury chocolate truffles. Slàinte!

For fine art: The National Galleries of Scotland

Spend an enriching hour or two browsing one of the best art collections in the world, spanning from the Renaissance to the end of the 19th century. Don’t miss Raeburn’s The Reverend Robert Walker Skating on Duddingston Loch, more affectionately known as the ‘Skating Minister’. And discover the newly renovated Scotland gallery spanning 150 years from 1800-1945, where Lanseer’s Monarch of the Glen stands proudly. Entry to the gallery is free.

For a village within the city: Stockbridge

This popular Edinburgh neighbourhood is buzzing with history and modern-day energy in equal measure. Visit its independent boutiques, pubs and cafes. Or wander to St Bernard’s Well, a scenic hideaway looking out to the Water of Leith. There’s a market on Sundays, and the 17th-century Royal Botanic Gardens are also nearby.