We’re very lucky to be based in one of the world’s most exciting cities. Visitors may come for a long weekend but you can be sure they’ll book again for a longer stay as there is so much to see in a city which has buildings dating back to the 12th century.
Edinburgh is full of secrets and hidden gems that you either stumble upon by accident or visit due to hearsay. Once you’ve booked into your serviced apartment, giving you the freedom to enjoy the city in your own time without having to worry about other guests, you must check out some of our favourite hidden gems.
Royal Mile Gardens
Edinburgh is known nationally for the expanse of green space it offers. There are wide open park spaces wherever you go, giving you the chance to relax and enjoy the surroundings in peace. The Royal Mile ‘Secret’ Gardens are hidden behind the high tenements of the city’s most famous street and have origins back in the 17th century. It’s a wonderfully secluded spot for relaxing with a picnic or simply enjoy a spot of quiet in a bustling city.
Cabaret Voltaire
Cabaret Voltaire is a stunningly understated music venue which is a hub of underground activity in the Scottish music scene. You may find yourself seeing one of the newest, brightest talents in the country performing and with music seven days a week. The venue is housed in what is tantamount to a cave and this adds a further atmospheric touch.
The Real Mary’s Kings Close
Take a step underneath what we know of Edinburgh and you’ll find something amazing. Below the Royal Mile is one of Edinburgh’s best kept secrets – The Real Mary’s Kings Close. A warren of hidden closes is hidden below the main streets of the city and it’s hard to believe it but for centuries real people lived and worked in these areas. They were only made open to the public in 2003 and it gives a truly accurate picture of life in Edinburgh from the 16th to 19th centuries.
Mosque Kitchen
If you’re looking for award-winning food in Edinburgh then there is plenty of choice but Mosque Kitchen is one of the finest. It has a casual cafeteria style about it but the food is out of this world and has a real authentic taste of India. What’s even more fascinating about Mosque Kitchen is that it’s run by volunteers and therefore deserves even more visits to keep it open!
Water of Leith
Did you know Edinburgh had a river? Many people aren’t aware at all and it’s a real gem that should be enjoyed. Walking along the Water of Leith is a truly relaxing and organic experience. It runs from the Pentland Hills to the sea at the port of Leith and both a cycle path and footpath run alongside it – with wonderful views and scenery. Edinburgh is a busy, popular tourist city so a walk along the river is a great tonic sometimes.
Visiting Edinburgh isn’t something anyone can tire of and even if you can’t fit all these hidden gems in, you’ve got an excuse to come back again.
Trudi Cueto works for The Edinburgh Apartment, with properties located in the most convenient locations around Edinburgh. If you are visiting the city, make sure to stay close to all of the sights.
