Edinburgh

Elect's take

"Edinburgh is the city that most rewards walking without a plan. Every street reveals something extraordinary — a close leading to a hidden courtyard, a view of the castle from an unexpected angle, a bar serving outstanding Scotch whisky — and the combination of history, culture and Scottish hospitality creates something genuinely exceptional."

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most visited historic sites in Scotland, a magnificent fortress that has been continuously occupied for over 3000 years and houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. The Royal Mile connecting the Castle to Holyroodhouse Palace provides a remarkable concentration of historic buildings, closes and wynds. The National Museum of Scotland is one of the finest in the UK with outstanding Scottish history and culture collections. The Scotch Whisky Experience provides an excellent introduction to Scotland's national drink. The August Fringe Festival transforms Edinburgh into the world's largest arts festival. Leith has excellent waterfront restaurants.