Exploring Edinburgh’s Quieter Edges
Written by Graeme Johncock
Edinburgh’s streets are overflowing with stories, you could easily spend an entire week without leaving the city if you wanted! However, as somebody who lived there for ten years, I know there’s so much more to see if you venture just a little further out. The rolling hills around Edinburgh are dotted with magnificent castles, mysterious chapels and dramatic glens, making a trip around the quieter edges of Edinburgh a day to remember!
Craigmillar Castle
Start the day at Edinburgh’s “other castle”, the luxurious Craigmillar. Built by the Preston family in the late 14th century, it grew in size and standing, becoming a favourite escape from the noises and smells of Edinburgh for Kings and Queens. A young James V once stayed here to escape...
Rosslyn Chapel
There’s nowhere else in Scotland quite like Rosslyn Chapel. From the outside, it’s an interesting little sandstone building, with gargoyles and grotesques protecting its flying buttresses. Inside, it’s an awe-inspiring bible in stone, with every inch covered in spectacularly intricate carvings. Building work began in 1446 by William Sinclair and...
Battle Of Roslin Monument
A short walk from the village of Roslin, a stone monument declares this proudly as the location of the Battle of Roslin. In 1303, a large English army was surprised and defeated in the fields and forests here by a small Scottish force led by John Comyn and Simon Fraser....
Lunch at Rosslyn Inn
Back in the village, Rosslyn Inn is the perfect place to stop for a traditional pub lunch in cozy surroundings. There’s a large menu whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a proper meal!
Roslin Castle & Glen
Head down the steep, winding, tree covered road into Roslin Glen and prepare for a short walk to somewhere extraordinary. You might not see it at first as you cross the footbridge, but the vine covered ruins of Roslin Castle are hiding amongst the trees above. Once home to the...
Old Cramond Bridge
Tucked away behind the Miller & Carter restaurant is one of the best kept secrets near Edinburgh. Dating to the 15th century, Old Cramond Bridge over the River Almond was once the main route into the city from the west. Legend says that King James V was once attacked here...
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