A Weekend in Edinburgh

TRAVEL GUIDE | CABANA TRAVEL | WORLD OF CABANA

With its dramatic skyline crowned by Edinburgh Castle and a rich blend of medieval and Georgian architecture, Edinburgh is easily the UK’s most enchanting city. The mystical charms of the Old Town and Royal Mile are well known, but look closer and you’ll find the Scottish capital full of unexpected delights. Art Historian and travel writer, Hannah Kroes, and the Editors of Cabana share an insider's guide.

BY HANNAH KROES | CABANA TRAVEL | 12 DECEMBER 2024

Where to Stay

Gleneagles Townhouse: A world-class hotel, which offers impeccable interior design in a historic building in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic center. You’ll find that every tiny detail is thoughtfully considered here, from the generous breakfast to the warm hospitality of the staff. HK

100 Princes Street: Covered floor to ceiling in tartan, 100 Princes Street fully embraces its Scottish heritage and proudly shares it with guests. The moody interiors of the rooms, some with a port-hole view out to Edinburgh Castle, are the perfect sanctuary from Edinburgh’s changeable weather. HK

The Balmoral: Edinburgh’s grand dame with two good restaurants and a pool. You’ll recognize the Balmoral from its elegant clock tower that rises above the city’s skyline. Although some rooms are a little dated, renovations are on the horizon - think bespoke tartan and Hebridean blues. Cabana

The Witchery: You’ll find Edinburgh’s mystical charm in abundance at this romantic ‘more is more’ hotel and restaurant within a collection of 16th century buildings at the gates of Edinburgh Castle. The moody, lavishly-decorated suites feature four-poster beds and roll-top baths. Cabana

Where to Eat

The Little Chartroom and Ardfern: Led by chef Roberta Hall-McCarron, The Little Chartroom offers refined, seasonal dishes that spotlight Scotland’s finest ingredients. Ardfern is their more casual sister site nearby. HK

The Palmerston: This relaxed restaurant combines locally sourced ingredients with hearty, comforting dishes. With a daily-changing menu and freshly baked bread, it’s a top pick for a satisfying meal. HK

Ante: An elevated coffee shop serving brunch and world-class pastries: blackberry and hay custard Danish pastries or basil pesto and ricotta babka buns. HK

Montrose: In a late 19th-century building, originally built as an inn (and above a bustling wine bar), chefs Jimmy Murray and Moray Lamb serve delicious, inventive food from local suppliers. Cabana

Scotch & Bar Prince: Both Balmoral Hotel bars deserve a mention. As the name suggests, Scotch is a cozy bar for whisky connoisseurs, while Bar Prince is the spot for cocktails, champagne and more. Cabana

The Spence: Led by chef Jonny Wright, the restaurant at Gleneagle’s Townhouse is a lively, atmospheric spot for all-day dining, with live music thrown in too. Cabana

Where to Shop

Bard: In the pretty port town of Leith (in north Edinburgh), Bard celebrates Scottish craft and design with a thoughtfully curated collection of contemporary and traditional works. This is the best place in Edinburgh to find elevated craft objects from Scotland’s best artisans and makers. HK

McNaughtan's Bookshop: Opened in 1957, this charming establishment is Scotland’s oldest antiquarian bookshop. You’ll find the shelves well stocked with second-hand titles as well as rare books. HK

ætla: This stylish store in Stockbridge – a pretty village-like neighborhood just a short walk from the city center – stocks fine and fashion jewelry from a carefully curated selection of designers. Jewelry makers, including Grainne Morton, share an elegant and artistic sensibility. HK

Lifestory: A sleek concept store offering Scandinavian-inspired homewares, stationery, and gifts, Lifestory is bright and minimalist. It’s perfect for those seeking stylish, sustainable pieces from high quality brands and designer. HK

What to See and Do

Museums & Galleries: A neo-Gothic marvel, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery is a must-see, particularly the intricate murals of historical figures in its Great Hall. The National Museum of Scotland is a fantastic repository of art, objects and antiquities, while City Arts Centre holds thousands of fine works by important Scottish artists, and The Writers’ Museum is dedicated to the considerable legacies of Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. Cabana/HK

Dovecot Studios: Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian swimming pool, Dovecot Studios is a working tapestry studio and gallery that bridges traditional craftsmanship with contemporary art. Visit to see an exhibition, or catch a glimpse of weavers at work from the mezzanine level. HK

Jupiter Artland: Located just outside the city, this contemporary sculpture park is worth the trek. The grounds are dotted with installations by world-renowned artists. Don’t miss Charles Jencks’ ‘Cells of Life,’ a series of sculpted landforms that feel otherworldly, and Pablo Bronstein’s Rose Walk. HK

The Georgian House: A meticulously restored 18th century townhouse in the city's New Town. The interiors offer a glimpse into upper-class life during the Georgian era, with elegant furnishings, period art, and very knowledgeable staff. HK

Edinburgh Castle & Holyroodhouse: Walk the Royal Mile between these two locations and you’ll be on the trail of Scotland’s royal history, not to mention the famous Hogmanay celebrations. Don’t miss a tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the home of Mary, Queen of Scots, and its 12th century Abbey. Cabana