Edinburgh Castle, Camera Obscura, Military Tattoo… These popular tourist attractions are well-loved for good reason but they’ll cost you a pretty penny to visit, so what else is out there for the frugally inclined? Is it possible for the most visited city in Scotland to have “cheap thrills” for us to enjoy?
The answer is yes, you just need to know where to get started. Edinburgh has a fascinating history and its stunning views have seen the historic capital feature in many famous films. With many attractions, parks, galleries and museums to choose from, all you need is someone to point you in the right direction.
Here’s what you can do in Edinburgh without paying in this list of thirteen free attractions that will delight you.
5. National Museum of Scotland
As written on their website, here you can “explore the diversity of the natural world, world cultures, art and design, science and technology and Scottish history, all in one amazing building.” Enjoy free entry into a world of historical treasures which includes fascinating Scottish archaeological discoveries and medieval memorabilia. Photo: Andrew Milligan (PA)
6. St Giles’ Cathedral
St Giles’ Cathedral was originally founded by King David I in 1124 and has served as a church for the majority of the millennium. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the beautiful cathedral caught the attention of the world after it became the site where her majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, lay at rest while in Scotland. Photo: K. Mitch Hodge (Unsplash)
7. Museum of Childhood
*Temporarily closed for refurbishment* The Museum of Childhood, located on the famous Royal Mile of Edinburgh, is the first museum in the world to be centred around the history of childhood, making it a unique location to visit. The museum reportedly brings in over 200,000 visitors each year and houses an interesting collection of children’s toys and other artefacts. Photo: Robert Perry (PA)
8. Royal Mile and Grassmarket
The Royal Mile, situated in the heart of the Old Town, has the Palace of Holyroodhouse at its foot and Edinburgh Castle at its head. It is known as the Royal Mile as it reflects the royal history of kings and queens' processional routes down this area. The Grassmarket, also nestled in the Old Town, was one of Edinburgh’s most prominent marketplaces back in years like 1477. These areas are truly unmissable especially if it’s your first time visiting. Photo: via WikiCommons