Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and jam packed with history. The view is different because Edinburgh’s buildings were constructed using the Craigleith Sandstone and the grey brown tones are everywhere you look. I love the vibe of Edinburgh and the colour!
We booked all our hotels a year out and got some great deals. Our dates changed slightly and we needed another night here in Edinburgh. To add 1 more night to The Balmoral booking was out of our price range. We booked our first night in the Market Street Hotel instead.
Market Street Hotel
UNIQUE. BEAUTIFUL. DARING.
the soul of edinburgh
Old Town character meets contemporary design at Edinburgh’s newest urban escape and Scotland’s first member of Design Hotel. Perfectly suited for today’s intrepid traveller and primely placed in the heart of the Scottish capital.
Market Street Hotel Website
Apparently I didn’t take any pictures?
The Balmoral
An Edinburgh Icon at an Unparalleled Address
The Balmoral, 1 Princes Street, where Old Town meets New, a legendary hotel and landmark clock tower: a symbol of its city.
A welcome in bespoke Balmoral tartan; Hebridean blues, heather hues and classic Scottish art; whisky ambassadors with 500 malts – The Balmoral is a love letter to Scotland. Looking up to Edinburgh Castle, savour 4 AA Rosette dining, French-Scottish bistro fare, award-winning afternoon tea and a serene urban spa at the city’s most majestic spot.
The Balmoral Website
The food here was really good – I tried Haggis, Neeps & Tatties and enjoyed every bite!
The Royal Mile & The Views
The Royal Mile is the main street in Old Town with Edinburgh Castle at one end and the Palace of Holyrood House at the other end. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe was happening and the streets were jam packed with performers and tourists.
Edinburgh Castle
Sitting atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is full of history. Built in the 11th century and built on volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle is interesting.
The Honours of Scotland are kept in Edinburgh Castle. These are the Crown of Scotland, the Sceptre and the Sword of State. These are the oldest surviving set of Crown Jewels and were first used for Mary, Queen of Scots in 1543. When Queen Elizabeth II lay in St. Giles Cathedral, the Crown of Scotland was placed on her coffin. Pictures are not allowed in this part of the castle. The Stone of Destiny is also here and is the stone on which the Coronation Chair sits.
Palace of Holyrood House
This palace was the official residence of Queen Elizabeth II in Scotland ~ it is now the Scottish official residence of King Charles III. Holyrood Palace used to be the home of Mary, Queen of Scots whose own story is fascinating. Holyrood House was originally built as a monastery in 1128.
The Witchery by the Castle
The Witchery is a hotel and restaurant located by Edinburgh Castle. The building is 16th century and the hotel suites are spectacular. Definitely a spot for a romantic getaway. The restaurant was pricey, but the food was good.
The Real Mary King’s Close
Underneath the streets of the Royal Mile are preserved streets (closes) from the 17th century. Mary King was a merchant who resided on this street. The Royal Exchange was built on top of these streets. Today, Mary King’s Close is said to be haunted.
Whisky & Wine
Happy Travels
Jackie is “Mom” to one amazing son, an IT professional and an obsessed traveller. She spends her time reading, golfing at Ladies League and implementing software projects. Jackie has travelled to all 7 continents and 93 countries and is always planning the next destination and adventure!