West Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, and how to get around in West, Edinburgh with this comprehensive travel guide. Find natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, local culture and customs, and more.


Introduction to West

West is a beautiful area situated in Edinburgh, in The Lothians, in Central Belt, in Scotland, in United Kingdom, in Britain and Ireland, in Europe. It is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for travelers. Whether you are an adventure seeker, history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, West has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in West

West has a plethora of attractions to explore during your visit. Here are some of the must-visit places to add to your list:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Georgian House: Experience a slice of Georgian life at this meticulously restored townhouse.
  • The Palace of Holyroodhouse: The official residence of the monarch in Scotland since the 16th century, it is located at the opposite end of the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle.
  • The Scottish Parliament: A unique and modern piece of architecture that houses the devolved Scottish Parliament, completed in 2004.

Natural Attractions of West: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Arthur’s Seat: This is an extinct volcano that offers stunning panoramic views over the city.
  • Calton Hill: One of Edinburgh’s most popular hills, where you can admire some of the city’s finest architecture, views of Edinburgh city, observe the stars or watch the sunrise.
  • Water of Leith Walkway: This is a beautiful path that follows the river through the heart of Edinburgh.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West

West is a paradise for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes for experiencing its natural beauty:

  • The Pentland Hills: Located just outside the city, this range of hills offers numerous trails of varying difficulty, from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes.
  • John Muir Way: This is a long-distance trail that stretches from the east coast of Scotland to the west coast.
  • Union Canal: This is a peaceful route that connects Edinburgh and Glasgow, offering scenic views of the countryside.

Best Things to Do in West: Activities and Tours

West offers a variety of activities and tours to keep you entertained throughout your trip. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Ghost tours: Edinburgh is known as one of the most haunted cities in Europe. Explore the city’s dark history on a guided ghost tour.
  • Whisky tasting: Scotland is famous for its whisky. Join a tasting tour to learn more about the country’s national drink.
  • Edinburgh Castle: No trip to Edinburgh is complete without visiting the iconic castle. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history.

Week-Long Itinerary for West

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to West:

Day 1: Arrive in West and explore the local area Day 2: Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse and hike up Arthur’s Seat Day 3: Take a day trip to Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument Day 4: Go on a whisky tasting tour Day 5: Explore the Water of Leith Walkway and visit the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art Day 6: Visit Edinburgh Castle and wander around the city’s Old Town Day 7: Relax and enjoy a scenic drive around the Pentland Hills

Food and Drink Scene of West

The food and drink scene in West is a mix of traditional Scottish cuisine and international flavors. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Haggis: A national dish of Scotland, Haggis is a savory pudding containing sheep organs and oatmeal.
  • Cullen Skink: A traditional Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions.
  • Cranachan: A delicious dessert made with raspberries, cream, honey, and whiskey.

Local Beverages

  • Whisky: Scotland is famous for its whisky, try a dram of single malt or blended whisky.
  • Gin: Scotland is also home to several amazing gin brands, make sure to get a Scottish gin brand like Hendrick’s for a truly local experience.
  • Irn-Bru: This is an iconic Scottish soda with a unique taste that you should try at least once.

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

West offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are our top picks:

  • The Balmoral Hotel: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city, famous for its elegant style and impeccable service.
  • Castle Rock Hostel: An affordable hostel located in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, perfect for backpackers.
  • Dalhousie Castle Hotel and Spa: A 13th-century castle-turned-hotel, complete with a spa, restaurant, and acres of scenic grounds.

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

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to buy in West:

  • Tartan: Scotland is famous for its tartan, a pattern of criss-crossing lines which create blocks of color.
  • Whiskey: Bring home a bottle of Scotland’s national drink.
  • Shortbread: A delightful, buttery biscuit that is a traditional Scottish treat.

Local Culture and Customs of West

Scotland has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply ingrained in its traditions, festivals, music, and literature. Here are some of the local customs and traditions to keep in mind while visiting West:

  • Bagpipes: Scotland’s national instrument is the bagpipes and you can often hear pipers and drummers playing around the city.
  • Hogmanay: This is Scotland’s New Year’s Eve festival, and it is celebrated with fireworks, street parties, and traditional Scottish customs.
  • Kilts: A traditional garment worn by Scottish men and women, the kilt is made of tartan and is an important part of Scottish culture.

Best Time to Visit West

The best time to visit West is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and sunny. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect large crowds and higher prices. For a better bargain, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April to May or September to October).

Do’s and Don’ts of West

Do:

  • Try traditional Scottish food and drink: Don’t leave Scotland without trying haggis, Scotch whisky, and Irn-Bru.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: West has many cobbled streets and steep hills, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
  • Explore both the Old and New Town: West offers a mix of historic and modern attractions, so make sure to explore both the Old and New Town.

Don’t:

  • Underestimate Edinburgh’s weather: Scotland is known for its wet and windy weather, so be sure to pack a raincoat or umbrella.
  • Be disrespectful of local customs: Scotland has a rich cultural heritage, so be respectful of the local customs and traditions, including wearing appropriate dress when visiting religious sites.
  • Forget to tip: Tipping is not mandatory in Scotland, but it is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Safety and Health

Safety in West

West is a safe place to travel, but like any other city, it is important to take normal precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables locked up, and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in West

No vaccines are required to travel to West. However, it is advisable to have travel insurance and ensure you carry any prescription medication, especially if you have any medical conditions.

Getting to West: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near West

The nearest airport to West is Edinburgh Airport, located about 20 minutes away by taxi or bus.

Bus Stations Near West

The main bus station in West is the Edinburgh Bus Station, located in the city center.

Other Options

West is well connected to other parts of the UK and Europe via train and bus.

How to Get Around in West

West is a compact city, easily explored on foot. However, it is also well served by buses and taxis.

Where to Go Next from West: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

West is situated in a prime location for exploring nearby destinations. Here are some popular excursions:

  • Glasgow: Scotland’s largest city is just an hour’s journey away from Edinburgh by train or bus, offering visitors a wealth of museums, galleries, restaurants, and shops to explore.
  • St Andrews: Located about 50 miles east of Edinburgh, St Andrews is home to Scotland’s oldest university, beautiful beaches, and picturesque streets.
  • The Highlands: Take a scenic road trip through the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, stopping at historic castles, remote villages, and breathtaking mountain ranges.

Conclusion

West is a vibrant and historic city that should be on every traveler’s list. With its mix of culture, natural beauty, and rich history, there is always something to see and do. Be sure to stroll along the city’s cobbled streets, hear the bagpipes play, and take in the stunning views of Arthur’s Seat.

Human Saltire at the Scotland v England 6 Nations 2008 match, Murrayfield Stadium Human Saltire at the Scotland v England 6 Nations 2008 match, Murrayfield Stadium Map of Edinburgh districts Map of Edinburgh districts Sir Nils Olav inspects the Norwegian King's Guard at Edinburgh Zoo. The emperor penguin has been both the mascot and honorary knight of the Guard since they took part in the 1972 Royal Military Tattoo. Sir Nils Olav inspects the Norwegian King's Guard at Edinburgh Zoo. The emperor penguin has been both the mascot and honorary knight of the Guard since they took part in the 1972 Royal Military Tattoo.