Situated on three picturesque hills, Edinburgh is one of the most amazing cities in the UK. While the cold season is not an obvious time to travel there, winter offers a unique opportunity to get a fresh perspective on this fascinating travel destination.
Yes, wintery Edinburgh offers the charm of its historic streets, iconic architectural masterpieces, and incredible wildlife. And a hire car is the best way to explore all of its local beauty at your own pace.
Pick up Easirent car hire Edinburgh Airport and start your ride right after you arrive. Winter is a good time to hire a car because you don’t need to freeze at the bus stop. Plus, a hire car gives you the freedom of movement you’ve been long dreaming of.
So if you’re looking for a great winter travel destination, come to Edinburgh and visit some great places within driving distance of the city centre.
Holyrood Palace
This ancient palace is currently the seat of the royal family in Scotland. It consists of a castle, the ruins of the Holycross Abbey, and the stunningly beautiful park of the same name. Holyrood is open to the public at almost any time. Of course, except for the days when Her Majesty visits the country.
You can visit the royal dining room and then head to the throne room, which houses the mantle, the main attribute of monarchical power. History buffs should definitely check out the chambers of the Scottish Queen Mary Stuart. Here you can see jewelry, old paintings, and antique furniture.
Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is a hill reaching a height of about 251 meters. It offers a stunning view of all of Edinburgh, so not climbing it means not seeing the city at all. You can only climb the hill on foot, so you have to leave your hire car at the foot. Yes, don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes as well.
Located in the famous Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat is clearly visible from any part of the city. Several hundred million years ago it wasn’t just a hill, but the summit of a real volcano. Its name is associated with the name of the famous King Arthur, although scientists haven’t yet proven this fact. According to another version, there was the same Camelot Castle, where King Arthur gathered the Knights of the Round Table. But alas, these are just the assumptions of some historians.
A leisurely climb up the mountain will take you about an hour. It’s quite windy during the cold season, but the views opening from the hill are worth it. As a reward, you will receive an incredible panorama of the city skyline with the steel surface of the North Sea in the background. Lovers of beautiful photos will definitely appreciate this place.
As soon as you climb up, don’t rush down immediately. Explore the smallest details of magnificent Edinburgh and simply enjoy the unique atmosphere. In winter, no tourist will bother you to experience this Scottish spirit of freedom.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
The garden is a great place to stroll at any time of the year. However, in winter you can see it covered in snow. It will take a whole day to get around the entire territory. The name of the Royal Garden speaks for itself. Its imposing scale, clean walking paths, manicured lawns, and wide variety of beautiful plants make it truly royal. What’s more, each bench in the park is dedicated to a major royal person.
Also, the park is full of squirrels, which are not at all afraid of tourists. Therefore, you can feed them directly from your hands.
The Botanical Garden offers a special route that will introduce you to plants directly related to the culture of the country. During the walk, you will feel peace and tranquility. So, it’s especially good to visit it in order to take a break from the city’s noisy pubs. Moreover, the entrance is free of charge.
Edinburgh Zoo
Covering almost 33 hectares, the unique zoological park is one of the most visited places not only in Scotland but throughout the UK. Every year, at least 600 thousand tourists stroll around the zoo’s area. Initially, its goal was to save endangered species of animals. However, besides the animals, there’s an impressive collection of varied trees. Plus, this site was the first to introduce koalas and king penguins in the UK.
This place is perfect to get to know the wildlife better, especially if you are travelling with children. You’ll easily reach the zoo by hire car since it’s located practically in the city centre.
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