Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and home to the Scottish Parliament, once the sovereign legislature of the Kingdom of Scotland until the country merged with Great Britain. Located in the northern territory, this sparkling city was founded in the 7th century and is today teeming with cultural excellency in literature, music, visual arts and museums. Edinburgh is a proud city and known for its rich cultural roots in their Gaelic traditions, historical monuments and is home to some of the most hospitable people in the world.
The National Museum of Scotland, located on Chambers Street, houses an eclectic collection of natural history and man made artifacts dating back to pre-historic times. The Early People gallery contains artifacts collected from more than 10,000 years of Scottish residency, with priceless pieces exhumed from ancient grave sites and others handed down through the generations. Exhibits contain pottery, jewelry, ornaments and ancient weaponry dating back to the Roman and Viking invasions. The National Museum is a full or half-day excursion and admission is free.
Not to be missed is trip through Edinburgh Castle, a supreme fortress presiding over the city for 3000 years. By the Middle Ages, Edinburgh Castle became the premier royal castle for Scotland’s most notable leaders. Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to James Vl in 1566, with the historical bed closet still in tact today. And in 1633, Charles l slept here in preparation for his coronation day as King of the Scots. Guests at Edinburgh Castle are free to roam the structure and its immaculate grounds for a self-guided tour, or guided group tours may be arranged. The Castle is opened from 9:30 AM to 6 PM in summer, and closes at 5 PM in winter.
On the darker side of Edinburgh attractions, some folks may get a kick out of the Edinburgh Dungeon, a theme park geared for the not so squeamish. Guests will visit a gallery of gruesome wax exhibits and may enter the “Drop Ride To Doom”, a heart stopping thrill ride that plummets its patrons into the darkness below. You may also experience “Mary King’s Ghost, a wild attraction laced with the smell of rotting flesh. Guests will enjoy a haunting from Britain’s plague victims and be frightened out of their wits with ghastly apparitions. Well, its all in fun and this spooky attraction is opened to younsters with school groups and birthday parties available. The Edinburgh Dungeon is located at 31 Market Street and conveniently situated near to the train at Waverley Station.
The Royal Yacht, Britannia, is opened to the public for a glimpse into the luxurious quarters of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Britannia guests are issued an audio pack for a self-guided tour through the most famous passageways of this one-time royal residence. In addition, patrons may enjoy a light lunch at the Royal Deck Tea Room, watch a video about the ship’s royal history, and shop for official Britannia souvenirs in the lavish gift shop. Royal Yacht Britannia is located at Ocean terminal, Leith, and opened from 9:30 AM in winter, with extended hours in the summer. Family package admission rates are available, and senior and child discounts are welcomed.