Cozy Up in Edinburgh This Winter
Beloved for its gothic architecture, extraordinary history, and literary legends, Edinburgh’s newest restaurants and hip neighborhoods beckon well-heeled visitors back to the romantic city.
Edinburgh is a city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and nightlife. With its excellent pubs and restaurants, gothic architecture and cobblestoned streets, and rich array of museums and cultural attractions, it's a great destination for anyone looking to experience the charms of Scotland. Though the hilly Scottish capital is perhaps too synonymous with die-hard Harry Potter fans on Hogwarts pilgrimages, with the rebirth of the city’s hip waterside district Leith, and the allure of picturesque neighborhoods like Stockbridge, Edinburgh has much to offer for globe trotters looking for a cozy and relaxing long weekend destination.
Where to Stay
Edinburgh is a small city, so it is well worth staying in the center with a brilliant view of Edinburgh Castle. Book a room at the newly-opened Virgin Hotels Edinburgh. Situated in the grand landmarked India Buildings on rambling Victoria Street, the 222-room hotel boasts calm, spacious rooms and several watering holes at which to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
While most guests will be diverted to the welcoming reception and cozy library, the lucky few who stay in the Sir Richard suite can make their way right up to the unrivaled suite named in honor of, yes, that Richard. Featuring a deep soaking tub and a wet bar with a mixologist on call, this suite—along with a select few junior suites with castle views—are certainly the rooms to splurge on. Those with kids will adore the family-friendly suites, complete with bunk beds for the little ones.
The nods to Richard Branson and the ever-expanding Virgin empire are subtle and chic. Famous vinyl records from the Virgin Records label adorn a wall in the reception, and pops of deep red make an appearance on the guest rooms’ Smeg fridges, in the movie lounge, and on the entrance’s sweeping staircase. However, as this is Virgin’s first hotel in Europe, priority has been placed on highlighting Edinburgh’s roots, local flavor, and mighty history.
To that end, portraits and photographs of Scotland’s most famous women—from Mary, Queen of Scots to Annie Lennox—cheekily adorn the walls. The library and its fireplace are warm and welcoming for an afternoon aperitif and board game; there are also individual bar stools adjacent to a towering bookshelf ideal for those on business trips to catch up on email. Much like the city of Edinburgh itself, the hotel has delightful nooks and crannies filled with art.
A passageway connecting two parts of the hotel transforms into a morning cafe with pastries, juice, and coffee. For evenings, make a reservation for cocktails at the Common Club. Plush seating comprises one side of the room, which is designed to look like a private member’s club, with a gilded bar spanning the opposite wall. The wood paneling from the original space was lovingly restored, and the roaring fire will keep you toasty even on chilly winter nights. Later this year, the hotel will unveil a restored courtyard for cocktails and its event space, a charming old church located within the sprawling property.
What to Do
For those interested in history and culture, there are several excellent museums to visit quite close to the hotel. The National Museum of Scotland is a must-see, as it offers a wide variety of exhibitions that cover Scottish history, culture, and natural history. Another great museum to visit is the Royal Museum, which is home to a variety of scientific and technological exhibits. Edinburgh Castle offers a heavy dose of history, while at the other end of the Royal Mile, Holyroodhouse is the current seat of the monarchy in Edinburgh and home to beautiful gardens and art.
Once you’ve had your fair share of museums and cultural institutions, head to Stockbridge for an afternoon wander. In the northwest of Edinburgh, Stockbridge is known for its charming and laid-back atmosphere. The neighborhood is particularly popular for its independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's also home to the picturesque Stockbridge Market, which takes place every Sunday and offers a wide range of fresh produce, crafts, and street food. There are also a number of vintage and second-hand shops in Stockbridge, with many clustered in and around St. Stephen Street. Work up an appetite while shopping, and pop into nearby Archipelago Bakery for a freshly baked scone.
The portside neighborhood of Leith is also a must-visit. Located in the north of Edinburgh, about a 15-minute uber ride from Old Town, Leith is becoming increasingly popular as a destination for visitors. The area has undergone a significant transformation in recent years and is now home to a burgeoning dining and nightlife scene.
Those who watched the latest season of The Crown might be keen to visit the original Royal Yacht Brittania, which is moored at Leith’s Ocean Terminal. This is the royal yacht that was used by the British royal family for over 40 years, and it offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the life of the royal family. Visitors can explore the yacht's five decks, including the state apartments, the crew's quarters, and the engine room. Stream the audio tour from your own phone to relive the glamour of one of the most cherished “homes” of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
For those who care about fashion and dislike tchotchke, an appointment at one of Scotland’s finest tartan providers, Kinloch Anderson, cannot be missed. Snap up one of their gorgeous tartan kilts, or get custom-fitted in full Highland dress. Their pocket-size tartan notebooks make for a chic souvenir or gift.
Don’t leave Leith without wandering around the waterside walk dotted with quaint pubs and seafood joints. For dinner, nab a table at The Kitchin, one of Edinburgh’s three Michelin-starred restaurants, and enjoy local Scottish cooking at its finest.
