Local Landmarks in Edinburgh

Landmarks in Edinburgh and surrounding areas

Edinburgh was voted the world's fourth most beautiful city and we're not surprised given the breathtaking Edinburgh landmarks in the city and its many hidden quirks. From the striking architecture along the Edinburgh Royal Mile of the Old and New Town to the wonderful Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh has rightfully earned its Unesco World Heritage status. With so many attractions, Edinburgh landmarks and must try Scottish foods, you'll be spoilt for choice when staying at our campsite near Edinburgh. Conveniently located just 10 miles from our East Lothian campsite with easy transport links by bus or by train. The number 26 bus to Edinburgh bus station takes about an hour from Prestongrange to Princes St, with the train from Wallyford to Waverley station takling just 10 minutes.

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh

Sitting at the top of Edinburgh Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle is one of the oldest fortified places in Europe and the most famous of landmarks in Edinburgh. It has a rich history as a royal residence, military garrison, prison and fortress. There's plenty to see and do when you visit the iconic castle and is the perfect day out for all the family. Edinburgh Castle tickets often sell out in advance especially during the Summer.

Did you know Edinburgh Castle sits atop a volcano? It is also said that the castle is haunted by the ghost of the Lone Piper! You might even see some spooky sightings on your visit to the castle.

There's plenty of useful information and resources about Edinburgh Castle on their site as well as information on how to get Edinburgh Castle tickets: https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/

Calton Hill, Edinburgh

Another recognisable Edinburgh landmark, Calton Hill boasts panoramic views of Arthur's Seat with the Crags behind Holyrood Palace and the Parliament, Leith and the Firth of Forth, Princes Street in its New Town grid and the Edinburgh Royal Mile climbing up towards the Castle.

Find out more about the Edinburgh landmarks on Calton Hill here.

Scottish Parliament Building, Edinburgh

One of the newer Edinburgh landmarks, Scotland's parliament sits at the foot of the famous Edinburgh Royal Mile in front of the spectacular Holyrood Park and Salisbury Crags. The building is open to the public.

Find more information and resources about the Scottish Parliament Building here.

Arthur's Seat & Salisbury Crags

Arthur's Seat is Edinburgh's highest hill and the most iconic of the natural landmarks in Edinburgh, visible for miles. The rocky slopes and cliffs of Arthur's Seat and Salisbury Crags are part of Holyrood Park and provide a wonderful backdrop to the city. The park, Edinburgh's wildest and biggest open space, is a place of sanctuary and contrast to the crowded streets of Edinburgh and a spectacular piece of countryside to walk in when the Edinburgh weather forecast is favourable.

Find out more about Arthur's Seat and Salisbury Crags here.

Forth Bridges

The Forth Road Bridge is one of the world’s most significant long span suspension bridges and a well-known Edinburgh landmark. With a main span of 1006 metres between the two towers, it was the fourth longest in the world and the longest outside the United States when it opened. In total, the structure is over 2.5 km long. A staggering 39,000 tonnes of steel and 125,000 cubic metres of concrete was used in its construction.

Find out more about the Forth Bridges here: https://www.theforthbridges.org/

Portobello Beach

For a break from the hustle and bustle of the city of Edinburgh, why not visit Portobello Beach which is only a few miles from Edinburgh city centre. Enjoy the sandy beach, ice cream shops, arcades and beach-side cafes. Portobello Beach is only a 20 minute bus journey from the city of Edinburgh and a 20 minute drive from our Edinburgh camping and glamping site. Portobello beach is also a popular spot for wild swimming near Edinburgh.