South Travel Guide

Explore the best of South in Edinburgh with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover must-visit places, activities, hiking routes, best time to visit, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to South

South is a charming district located in Edinburgh city in The Lothians region of Central Belt, Scotland. Known for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance, South is an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic Scottish experience. In this guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, things to do, hiking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and much more. So, get ready for a memorable trip to South, Edinburgh.

List of Places to Visit in South

South offers a plethora of attractions that you can explore during your visit. Whether you’re interested in history, arts, or nature, South has something for everyone. Here are some must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Rosslyn Chapel - A 15th-century chapel famed for its intricate carvings and mysterious legends.
  • National Mining Museum Scotland - A museum dedicated to Scotland’s coal mining history, providing insightful displays and interactive tours.
  • Dalkeith Palace and Country Park - A magnificent palace situated in a stunning country park that offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of Scottish nobility.

Natural Attractions of South: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pentlands Regional Park - A paradise for hikers, Pentlands Regional Park is a beautiful place to experience breathtaking views of Edinburgh city and nature trails.
  • The Scottish Seabird Centre - A nature centre in North Berwick, an hour away from Edinburgh that provides close encounters with diverse seabirds and their habitats.
  • Arthur’s Seat - A breathtaking, extinct volcano in Holyrood Park that offers stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South

South is a hub of hiking and biking trails that offer an easy and relaxing way to explore its natural beauty. Here are some top-rated routes:

  • Lothianburn Circular Walk - A 6-mile circular walk that takes you through the stunning Pentland Hills and offers breathtaking views.
  • In the Footsteps of Robert Louis Stevenson - A guided tour of Stevenson’s favourite walking routes and landscapes near South.
  • The Water of Leith Walkway - A peaceful, picturesque footpath approximately 12 miles long that will take you through diverse nature, historical sites and industrial heritage in Edinburgh.

Best Things to Do in South: Activities and Tours

South offers plenty of things to do, from historical tours to adventure activities. Here are some must-try experiences:

  • Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour - A tour that will take you to some of Edinburgh’s most popular attractions, such as Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, and Holyrood Palace.
  • Edinburgh Gin Distillery Tour - A tour of Edinburgh’s finest distillery, where you’ll discover the art of gin-making and be part of the production process while savoring Scotland’s favourite gin.
  • Ghillie Dhu Experience - A unique Scottish experience that allows you to explore South through a traditional dance and music performance and a Scottish feast.

Week-Long Itinerary for South

Here’s a week-long itinerary that you can follow to explore the best of South:

Day Activities
1 Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
2 Dalkeith Palace and Country Park
3 The Water of Leith Walkway
4 Rosslyn Chapel and National Mining Museum Scotland
5 Arthur’s Seat Hiking
6 Edinburgh Gin Distillery Tour
7 In the Footsteps of Robert Louis Stevenson

Food and Drink Scene of South

You’ll be delighted to know that South boasts a fabulous food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Haggis - Scotland’s official national dish, consisting of sheep’s heart, lungs, and liver, flavored and stuffed in sheep’s stomach.
  • Cullen Skink - A creamy soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions.
  • Scottish Salmon - Famed worldwide for its premium quality, Scottish salmon is a must-try in South.

Local Beverages

  • Whisky - Scotland’s famous distilled beverage, whiskey, is a must-try on any trip to South.
  • Gin - Edinburgh’s Renaissance is a gin-based distillery that is famous worldwide for its unique, hand-crafted gins.

Where to Stay in South: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

South boasts several hotels, hostels and guesthouses that offer comfortable and affordable accommodations. Here are some top-rated options:

  • Prestonfield House - An 18th-century mansion converted into a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of South.
  • 27 Elliot’s - A cosy guesthouse located near Arthur’s Seat, offering spectacular views of Edinburgh city.
  • SYHA Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel - A comfortable and affordable hostel with a vibrant atmosphere and numerous facilities, such as a library and cinema.

What to Buy in South: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

South offers plenty of souvenirs and local products that are unique to Scotland. Here are some top-picks:

  • Tartan Ties and Scarves - A traditional Scottish souvenir, tartan products are a wonderful way to bring a piece of South back home.
  • Scottish Shortbread - A sweet Scottish delicacy made of butter, sugar and flour, packaged in a beautiful tartan tin box.
  • Edinburgh Gin - A classic souvenir to take back home, Edinburgh Gin has an excellent flavor and is beautifully packaged.

Local Culture and Customs of South

Scotland is a blend of different cultures and traditions, and South is no exception. It’s essential to know the following customs:

  • Respect Heritage - Scotland prides itself on its history; please be respectful to their monuments, museums and memorials.
  • Use Local Language - Scottish people are known to use their colloquial words and dialects; that’s why it’s essential to learn some Scottish dialects and phrases before visiting South.
  • Tipping Culture - Tipping at a rate of 10-15% is customary in Scotland.

Best Time to Visit South

The best time to visit South depends on your preferences and interests. The summer months (June to August) are the busiest months and offer the warmest temperatures, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. If you’re looking for a quieter visit with fewer crowds, spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) are ideal. Winter months (December to February) offer fantastic opportunities for sightseeing and winter sports but do be prepared for the cold weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of South

Do:

  • Tip - Tipping in Scotland is customary, and it’s good to tip at a rate of 10-15% in restaurants and cafes.
  • Visit Museums and Historic Places - South is steeped in history and cultural significance, and it’s essential to visit museums and historic sites to understand Scotland’s rich heritage.
  • Try Scottish delicacies - Scotland has a rich culinary history, and it’s essential to try some local delicacies such as Haggis and Cullen Skink while visiting South.

Don’t:

  • Be Loud - Scottish people value peace and tranquility, so it’s essential to respect their peace while visiting public spaces.
  • Ignore Recycling and Waste Management - Scotland takes its waste management seriously, and it’s imperative to use recycling bins and dispose of your waste responsibly.
  • Underestimate the Weather - Scotland’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, so always pack for the worst weather, regardless of the season.

Safety and Health

Safety in South

South is a safe district to visit, but it’s important to take necessary precautions and keep your belongings safe. Follow the standard safety rules, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding unlit areas at night, and not leaving your belongings unattended.

Health in South

It’s important to take care of your health while visiting South, and it’s essential to have adequate travel insurance. Scotland’s health care system is excellent but can be expensive for visitors. Always carry your necessary medication, and check for any travel vaccinations needed before your visit.

Getting to South: Transportation Options and Logistics

You can reach South by air, train, bus, or car.

Airports Near South

Edinburgh International Airport is the nearest airport to South. You can take a bus, taxi, or train from the airport to the city centre and then explore South from there.

Bus Stations Near South

Edinburgh bus station is the central hub for all bus routes across the city, and several bus services run through South.

Other Options

You can also get to South by train or car. Edinburgh Waverley railway station is the nearest railway station to South. Similarly, it’s easy to rent a car from Edinburgh to explore South at your own pace.

How to Get Around in South

South is a walkable district, and most of the attractions are within a 30-minute walk from each other. You can also take local buses or taxis to explore South.

Where to Go Next from South: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

South is blessed with many nearby destinations and excursions, such as:

  • North Berwick - A charming seaside town, an hour away from South, famed for its picturesque harbour and stunning views.
  • Stirling - A historic city, 2-hour drive from South, that boasts of medieval castles, rolling hills, and pretty landscapes.

Conclusion

South, Edinburgh, is a district that promises a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. From exploring its museums and historical places to hiking the breathtaking hills, South offers an unforgettable experience for all. We hope this travel guide helps you make the most of your visit to South, Edinburgh. Enjoy your trip!

Map of Edinburgh districts Map of Edinburgh districts Ceiling of Rosslyn Chapel Ceiling of Rosslyn Chapel In the Pentland Hills In the Pentland Hills