The bumper staycation guide to Edinburgh

Founded as a fortress in the 7th century AD, Edinburgh became the country’s capital in the 15th century. It went on to play an important role in the Scottish Enlightenment of the 18th century as many of the era’s leading thinkers and writers hailed from here. So a trip to the UNESCO-listed Old Town to find out more about its past is a must on any staycation. At the heart of the Old Town is the Royal Mile (aka the High Street), where you’ll find most of the museums, visitor attractions and the landmark Edinburgh Castle. With so much to see and do, you’ll need to take a break from your sightseeing. Book a table at the Copper Still, tucked right in the tourist throng. Traditional and rustic, the newly opened venue is set in a heritage building with exposed brick walls and wooden beams. Behind the bar are 180 different varieties of whisky, ranging from classic Scotch blends to rare and hard-to-find single malts, making it an ideal place to sample the national drink. The pub’s food menu features classic fare, including vegetarian and vegan options.

If you’re less about trad and more about trendy, seek out this new Asian fusion restaurant on the Southside of Edinburgh. Housed in an historic building, its surroundings are contrasted by eclectic decor that includes graffiti art and neon lights, complemented by a menu of creative street food. Junk has been winning fans and awards ever since its opening. One of its keys to success? Each dish is crafted on five key pillars; sweet, salty, sour, soft and crunchy. Try some Wee Buns of Fun (Port Seton white crab meat on brioche with Szechuan and brown butter mayo); the Burugh’ Buffalo Cheese Steak; or Crumpet of Champions (a tower breakfast treat). The restaurant’s bar serves a variety of innovative cocktails, as well as a selection of beers and wines.

The port town of Newhaven is found on the northern outskirts of Edinburgh. And it’s here you’ll find this restaurant, housed in a Victorian fish market building that dates back to the 1890s. The interior has been beautifully restored to create a contemporary and stylish dining space, with a menu centred around seafood sourced directly from local fishermen and suppliers. From classic fish and chips to seafood platters and lobster thermidor, there’s something for every budget. Book a table where you can observe the chefs at work in the open kitchen, sit at the bar with some oysters on ice, or dine outside with an up-close view of the fishing boats coming and going. Alternatively, get a fish supper to go and sit on the harbour wall as you watch the sun set.

Want to feel like you’re properly in the countryside? You won’t have to travel far. Just hop on a bus to Buckstone or Liberton, where you can access pathways up the stunning and expansive Braid Hills (all the views of Arthur’s Seat but without the tourists). In spring and summer, it’s awash with bright yellow foliage and from the top, provides panoramic vistas across to Fife and the East Lothian Coast. Once you’ve finished picking out landmarks, descend southwards towards Mortonhall, for green field walks (you can spot resident Highland Cows en route). This popular horse riding area is home to a campsite and many stables, as well as this former stable, now a bar. The Stables has plenty of outdoor seating in its stone courtyard and a cosy pub interior with a wood-burning stove. Grab some good grub, or simply stop for a pint. The choice is yours.

Can’t afford a cruise? Why not push the boat out for one night only and splurge on dinner aboard Fingal? It’s Edinburgh’s own luxury floating hotel, an opulent vessel designed to reminisce the Golden Age of Travel. Fingal’s restaurant with its hammered and polished copper-style ceiling has a shimmering, mirror-like effect, while booth seating gives a feeling of privacy and huge windows look onto the water and Leith’s Shore. Art Deco-inspired, deeply sophisticated and very nautical, The Lighthouse adds a decadent touch to your staycation.

Need to get out of the urban jungle? As Edinburgh is surrounded on every side by either water or countryside, it won’t take long. A walk or cycle along the Union Canal to Ratho is just the ticket and when you arrive, you can stop for a Sunday roast or a real ale. First established in the 1700s this pub offers traditional Scottish hospitality and food; order some haggis, neeps and tatties, or a sarnie and salad. Its outdoor seating area overlooks the canal, and is a popular spot for diners to watch the narrow boats pass by. Inside, it has exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and a roaring fire during the colder months. The Bridge Inn also has four bedrooms for B&B, if you want to put the “stay” into your staycation.

A meander around the charity shops of Morningside and Bruntsfield, followed by a game of football or frisbee on The Links, is an idyllic way to pass a day. The Salt brand now has three venues across the city, but this is its original, found close to Holy Corner. Salt Café opens for brunch, coffee and lunch daily and for dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings. The venue has an artisanal feel and philosophy, with everything freshly made in-house. It’s also dog-friendly and supports the Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland scheme, so is ideal if you’re a young family or parent flying solo on your staycation. Scooping ‘Best Cafe’ at the Edinburgh Evening News Restaurant Awards 2022, Salt Café is firmly on Edinburgh’s culinary map.

Nestled in the heart of Stockbridge, Fin & Grape is an essential stop on any Edinburgh staycation itinerary. This charming wine bar and seafood kitchen offers a sophisticated yet relaxed dining experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. From the freshest oysters to expertly paired wine selections, every item on the menu is a testament to quality and creativity. The cosy ambiance and friendly staff make Fin & Grape a delightful retreat for both locals and tourists alike.

Howies, located on one of Edinburgh’s most picturesque streets, serves up a slice of Scotland’s rich culinary heritage. This vibrant eatery prides itself on sourcing local, seasonal ingredients to craft dishes that are both traditional and inventive. Whether you opt for the venison haggis with neeps and tatties or the fresh, daily caught seafood, Howies offers a warm, inviting atmosphere that embodies the spirit of Scottish hospitality.

For a taste of South America during your Edinburgh staycation, Los Argentinos is a must-visit. This authentic Argentine steakhouse, situated just a stone’s throw from the city centre, offers a passionate culinary journey through the heart of Argentina. The menu features prime cuts of beef, grilled to perfection over a traditional charcoal fire, and served alongside classic accompaniments like chimichurri and Malbec wine. The atmosphere is inviting and colourful, transporting diners straight to the bustling streets of Buenos Aires!

The Red Squirrel is a lively gastropub in the heart of Edinburgh, perfect for those seeking a casual, family-friendly dining spot during their staycation. With its extensive menu of gourmet burgers, local craft beers, and creative cocktails, it’s a popular gathering spot for local foodies. The pub’s modern rustic decor, complete with quirky squirrel-themed art, provides a unique backdrop to enjoy a leisurely lunch or a spirited evening out.