Edinburgh Castle and Camera Obscura

Edinburgh Castle has got to be one of the main draws if you are coming to the city for the first time.  Here you will find out some of the history of Scotland, see the Stone of Destiny & even the Crown Jewels.  You are free to wander around at your leisure or go on one of the guided tours that run throughout the day.  Entrance to the Castle is £11 per adult and £5.50 per child.

One of the highlights of visiting the castle is the view from its esplanade over Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth; it truly is breathtaking.  Have a coffee in the cafeteria, whose large glass windows make the most of this view and capture a picture of yourself alongside the famous black canons on the esplanade - you’ll have a beautiful backdrop of the City to take home with you.

As you leave the Castle, you’ll enter the road down towards Holyrood Palace, known as The Royal Mile, named after generations of Kings and Queens who’ve travelled between the Castle and Holyrood Palace.  The Royal Mile is the place to come if you’re looking for some Scottish souvenirs.   There are craft, jewellery, woollen and cashmere shops with lots of lovely little cafes and bistros dotted along the route.

However, don’t walk too far down the Mile as Camera Obscura is almost next door to the Castle and worth a visit.  This fabulous building is all about illusions.  At the top of the stairs in the Rooftop Chamber, there is a highly entertaining show where you can learn more about the history of Edinburgh, look around the city and even rearrange the people, buses and cars on Princes St: picking them up in your hand and playing with them – it has to be seen to be believed!   They also feature different exhibitions around the world of illusions and are currently featuring thermo-imaging.  Adult tickets are £7.95 and children over 5 years £5.50.