Edinburgh & The Lothians in Scotland, Scottish Regions, Travel Destinations

Incredible Edinburgh and The Lothians

If you are planning a trip to Scotland, you have to make a stop at Edinburgh. Rich in history, the capital of Scotland has a lot to offer any tourist. Whether you head for the City of Edinburgh or one of the surrounding Lothians, you will no doubt find something that captivates and intrigues you.

Originally, Edinburgh was the name given to the Old Town - the area where the Castle, Royal Mile and Grassmarket are now situated. This small area was relatively undeveloped until the late 18th century when the rich started to leave the country due to unfavorable living conditions. At that time, poor and rich lived in the same buildings on different levels. Eventually, in 1767, a design was laid out and for the New Town which was completed in 1810.

Scotland has an age old history which dates back to the time of the Celts and Romans. Much of the architecture in Edinburgh is a mixture of medieval, renaissance, Gregorian and even neo-classical and modern. Besides the fantastic buildings which transport you back in time, there are also ample museums which display relics from bygone eras.

Edinburgh is divided into four main districts called Lothians - the West Lothian, Midlothian, East Lothian and City of Edinburgh. Most of Edinburgh's attractions can be found in the City. The best place to begin a tour of Edinburgh is at Edinburgh Castle. This is Scotland's number one attraction and it juts out proudly on its perch of volcanic rock at the top of the Royal Mile. Also worth a see are the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile, the National Botanic Garden, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and the Museum of Scotland. The Royal Lyceum Theatre is also highly rated.