Join me on a journey to uncover Edinburgh’s hidden gems and embrace the offbeat side of this charming city.
Hi there! As a travel blogger and resident of Edinburgh, I have had the opportunity to explore this beautiful city inside and out. While many visitors may be drawn to the well-known attractions, I have discovered a plethora of hidden gems and quirky experiences that are not to be missed. In this article, I want to share with you some of the offbeat activities that Edinburgh has to offer, giving you a unique perspective on Scotland’s capital city. So, buckle up and get ready for an adventure!
The Secret Vaults Tour
As a travel blogger who is always on the lookout for unique experiences, I had heard about Edinburgh’s Secret Vaults Tour and knew I had to try it out for myself. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
The tour takes visitors deep underground to explore the city’s oldest streets and hidden vaults. As soon as I descended the stairs and entered the dark, damp space, I was transported back in time to a different era. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and shared fascinating stories about the city’s past, including its darker moments.
One of the highlights of the tour was getting to see and touch some of the artifacts that had been discovered in the vaults. From old coins to pottery fragments, each piece provided a glimpse into the lives of Edinburgh’s inhabitants from centuries past.
Another aspect that made this tour truly special was its small group size. With only a handful of us on the tour, it felt intimate and personalized. I was able to ask questions and engage with our guide, which added to the overall experience.
Overall, I highly recommend the Secret Vaults Tour to anyone looking for an offbeat and immersive experience in Edinburgh. It’s a unique way to explore the city’s history and gain a deeper understanding of its past.
The Edinburgh Ghost Tour – As a travel blogger who loves exploring offbeat activities, the Edinburgh Ghost Tour was an experience I couldn’t pass up. The tour takes place at night, which adds an extra level of spookiness to the already haunted locations. Our guide, dressed in traditional Scottish attire, led us through the winding streets of Edinburgh, telling us chilling tales of ghosts and hauntings.
One of the most memorable locations was the Greyfriars Kirkyard, a cemetery with a dark history. Our guide told us about the infamous Mackenzie Poltergeist, a malevolent spirit that is said to haunt the area. We even saw the Black Mausoleum, where the spirit is said to reside. While I didn’t personally witness any paranormal activity, the eerie atmosphere and the stories themselves were enough to send chills down my spine.
The tour also took us to other haunted locations, such as the Edinburgh Dungeon and the Mercat Cross. Along the way, our guide shared stories of gruesome executions, witch trials, and other macabre events that took place in Edinburgh’s past. Overall, the Edinburgh Ghost Tour was a unique and unforgettable experience that gave me a deeper appreciation for the city’s history and folklore.
Climbing Arthur’s Seat at Sunrise – One of my personal favorite offbeat activities in Edinburgh is climbing Arthur’s Seat at sunrise. It’s a bit of a challenge, but the views of the city from the top are absolutely worth it. I would recommend starting the hike early in the morning to catch the sunrise and avoid the crowds. The walk takes about an hour and a half, but it’s not too difficult if you’re reasonably fit. Once you reach the top, you can take in the breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting Edinburgh. Just make sure to bring warm clothes, as it can get quite chilly up there!