UK Day 5
Edinburgh is a compact and walkable city, which made it perfect for exploring by foot. Despite its rich history and grand architecture, it has the charm and scale of a small town, with most major sights within easy walking distance. From the Royal Mile to the winding closes of the Old Town, from the elegant streets of the New Town to the footpaths up Arthur’s Seat, we were able to take in the city’s highlights at our own pace, discovering hidden gems and soaking in its unique atmosphere along the way. Walking allowed us to truly connect with Edinburgh’s character—intimate, historic, and full of charm.
We walked up and down the Royal Mile, where the magic and charm of Edinburgh truly come alive. As we strolled through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, we felt like we had stepped into the world of Harry Potter, with the narrow alleys, ancient architecture, and historic buildings all adding to the sense of mystery and wonder. The Royal Mile, with its rich history, is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s Diagon Alley, and it certainly exudes a magical atmosphere. Along the way, we spotted The Elephant House café, famously known as one of the places where Rowling wrote early chapters of the Harry Potter series, adding a special literary touch to our walk. We also stopped at Oink for one of their legendary hog roast rolls—a delicious and satisfying treat that perfectly matched the energy of the day. We had arranged our visit for August specifically to experience the world-renowned Edinburgh Festival, and the city did not disappoint. Street performances, music, and theater filled the air with excitement, making our walk through the Royal Mile not just a journey through history, but a full immersion into the festival's vibrant spirit and a taste of Edinburgh's unique magic.
We had the fantastic opportunity to visit The Scotch Whisky Experience, located on the Royal Mile, where we delved into the rich history and intricate process behind Scotland’s iconic spirit. From learning about the origins of whisky to uncovering the art of whisky-making, the experience offered fascinating insights into the craftsmanship and tradition behind every bottle. We had the chance to taste different varieties, savoring their complex flavors and aromas, while experts guided us through the nuances of Scotch whisky. It was not only educational but also an enjoyable and immersive way to celebrate Scotland’s whisky heritage.
We had an unforgettable evening watching The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a spectacular event held only in August, showcasing breathtaking military precision, cultural performances, and global unity—all set against the iconic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. The event brought together over 800 performers, including military bands and cultural acts from more than 48 countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, India, and Switzerland. The stirring music, intricate drill routines, and dramatic lighting created an awe-inspiring atmosphere that celebrated both tradition and international camaraderie. Witnessing such a powerful display of discipline, artistry, and shared heritage left us deeply inspired and proud to be part of the audience. Performances are scheduled daily (except Sundays) at 9:30 PM, with additional shows on Saturdays and select Fridays at 6:15 PM.