SEE & DO
Royal Yacht Britannia
— I wasn't sure how good this exhibition would be, in truth, it's fascinating, even the laundry room where hundreds of officers' uniforms were once pressed daily!
The Yacht is full of personal items (photos, trinkets) and displays of gifts given by many a President or Statesman to the Queen. The audio provides an interesting insight into daily life of the Queen and her duties when she travelled abroad on this royal residence.
www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk
Ocean Terminal, Leith
Eica:Ratho – Climb High
— Climbing Centre yes, but this one’s not necessarily for kids, with one tower at 100ft. Though they do however have activities for kids on a smaller scale.
www.eica-ratho.com
International Climbing Arena, Ratho, South Platt Hill t: 0131 333 6333
The Palace of Holyroodhouse
— The Jewel of Edinburgh after its Castle. Home now to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and former home of Mary Queen of Scots. It’s a wonderful insight into the life of the palace throughout both Queen’s life. No trip to Edinburgh is complete without this visit. Just don’t try and go when the Queen’s in town, it will be closed!
www.royal.gov.uk.
National Portrait Gallery
— This one is my favourites, up close and personal with some of Scotland's finest. The rebels, the poets, heroes and villains, they're all here. Check the calendar for any special exhibitions far too many to list in this little box!
Drawings, Miniatures and Pastels from Ramsay to Lawrence- 25th October 2008 to 1st February 2009.
www.nationalgalleries.org
1 Queen Street, EH2 1JD
Edinburgh Castle
— You are not going to miss it, this wonderful castle perched high above volcanic rock and with views out of the Firth of Forth. Must see: 'Scottish Crown Jewels' and the tiny St. Margaret's Chapel. At one o'clock be prepared for the rather loud firing of the gun.
Summer: 1 April - 30 September, Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun, 9.30 am to 6.00 pm
Winter: 1 October - 31 March , Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun, 9.30 am to 5.00 pm
Admissions: Adult £10.00 - £12.00
Child £5.00 - £6.00 Concessions £7.00 - £9.50
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
A day of Modern art - Dean Gallery
— This art space is opposite the Modern Art Gallery in lush Parkland. Allow a 15 minute walk if coming from Princess Street. Both galleries are worth doing in the one day. Numerous permanent and temporary exhibitions. Tickets £6 (£4).
Wilhelmina Barns-Graham, John Bellany, Alan Davie and Anne Redpath - 4th October 2008 to 31st January 2009.
www.nationalgalleries.org
Museums of Scotland
— There are several wonderful Museums; Museum of Flight, Rural Life, War, Costume.
The National Museum of Scotland is in Edinburgh and should not be missed. Great for a stroll on a wet day. See what events you might be able to book into online.
Jean Muir: A Fashion Icon from 7 Nov until 15 March 2009
www.nms.ac.uk
Chambers Street, EH1 1JF t: 0131 225 7534
National War Museum
— Explore the history, tactics and weapons of Scottish infantry over the centuries.
From 14th-century ‘Galloglass’ mercenaries and 17th-century highland warriors to today’s modern soldiers. While technology has changed the way warfare has been fought over the centuries one thing remains constant; the importance of infantry.
'Call to Arms' explores the unwavering need for ‘boots on the ground’ by charting the development of Scottish foot soldiers since the 14th century.
Examine the clothing, protection, weapons and tactics employed by soldiers and uncover some of the motivations behind the fighting Scotsman.
Special exhibition 'Call to Arms' until 1 Feb 2009 Free entry with ticket to Castle.
www.nms.ac.uk
Edinburgh Castle, EH1 2NG t: 0131 247 4413