Location: Edinburgh
Travel Dates: 29.09 – 2.10
Walking distance: ~50 km/30 miles
The first time I travelled to Edinburgh was nearly a decade ago and with a friend, in the heart of winter. It was cold and dark most of the time, but it was also beautiful and I remember many visits to pubs and cafes, which was nice when it drizzled outside. This time I was on my own, which meant less socialising and more attention to the city itself. As I am on the mission to take many green urban walks, this was also a great opportunity to revisit some of the walked paths and find few new ones.
I was also interested in checking out couple of museums I missed last time, visiting a gallery or two and looking up Edinburgh Printmakers – a cultural centre in old boot factory. But overall I just wanted a nice break with lot of walking and some new green and creative inspiration.
Day 1 – Marchmont, Royal Mile, Calton Hill, City Centre, Grassmarket (19 km – 28 332 steps)
Day 2 – Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat (nearly), National Museum of Scotland (14 km – 21 734 steps)
Day 3 – Edinburgh Printmakers, National Gallery of Modern Art, Water of Leith Walkway, Botanical Gardens (18 km – 26 655 steps) (My favourite day!)
Conclusion: Edinburgh is extremely walkable city with amazing views popping up on every corner. The pathways of Royal Mile are fascinating to explore, but it’s also a tourist trap.. For the best of Edinburgh I’d head further away from the crowds. The parks of Edinburgh are stunning with Holyrood topping others with amazing views over the city. I wish I had more time to explore the Leith area, other peaks of the city, Union canal and Edinburgh creative scene.
Next: I’d plan couple of week’s stay in Edinburgh with more city walking and some day trips further away. Edinburgh should be on every urban walker’s list.. especially when the sun is out!
Helen Ilus 