4 November 2021
Rhema, MSc International Human Resource Management, just started her studies in Edinburgh, and shares her 10 favourite things about Edinburgh so far.
Edinburgh, the magnificent Scottish capital, is a concoction of a busy modern city with the charm of a small town, don’t you agree? With every nook and corner holding a piece of heritage, the city enchants, and welcomes people warmly from across the world.
It is only been two months, and I have already fallen head-over-heels with this beautiful city. I was busy creating a list of the things I have loved in Edinburgh so far and narrowed it down to the top 10!
Read along to discover some of my favourite things and perhaps your next go-to spot!
1. Breathtaking sights
The city is nothing short of a picturesque postcard with its beautiful skylines and dramatic panoramic views. Make sure you pull yourself up from your warm cosy duvet and soak up the crisp, golden sunrise to begin your day.
The best part about the city? You do not have to walk miles and miles to reach a touristy or Instagram-worthy spot. Just start walking and you will be drawn to stop and admire the puffy clouds or the fascinating architecture around you.
2. World-renowned University
Without a doubt, this had to make it to the top 3! Time for facts. The University of Edinburgh is an ancient university founded in 1583 and is one of the largest universities in the United Kingdom.
This 483-year-old glorious structure does not just carry a long-standing heritage but is ranked in the top 20 universities in the World (according to QS World University Rankings 2022). Next time you think about this, take pride in being a student/alum because you made it to one of the most prestigious universities in the world!
3. Cute cafés
Are you someone who enjoys treating yourself to a quiet afternoon with your favourite cup of coffee and a puff pastry? My preference is a pain au chocolat — you can never go wrong with this order.
Well, you are in luck! Edinburgh has dozens of cute little cafés to keep you warm and cosy amidst the ever-changing Scotland weather.
4. Edinburgh Castle
This famous fortress has been seated on its high throne, looming above the city since time immemorial. The Edinburgh Castle sits on a dormant volcano on top of the plug of the volcano’s vent.
You cannot miss this beautiful structure standing strong above you. Did you know? Royalty aside, the castle held approximately 1,000 prisoners throughout its history, including 21 pirates of the Caribbean.
5. The Royal Mile
Ever wondered about the significance of the name 'Royal Mile'? Very few realise the forgotten world that lies beneath their feet in the cobbles of the mile.
The name comes from its tradition of processional routes for Kings and Queens for the last 500 years. From restaurants to movie shootings, to the sound of bagpipes — a walk on the royal mile will definitely leave you feeling very royal.
6. Dean Village
Walk for about 8 to 10 minutes from Calton Hill and you will find yourself lost in a whole new world. This hidden gem is far from the bustling world of Princes Street or the Royal Mile.
Lined with beautiful quaint houses, the canals, and a waterfall — Dean Village is the perfect spot for a Saturday afternoon wander.
7. Farmers’ Market
Indulge in Edinburgh’s famous Farmers’ Markets located, at the centre of the Grassmarket or the Castle Terrace Car Park open every Saturday! Take your pick from a gorgeous spread of breads, cheeses, meats and pies, to the famous Scottish tablet, chutneys, jams, and more. My personal favourite is the stuffed red velvet cookie by Chulo’s Bakes.
You can also choose from a wide selection of hand-picked artisanal products by your local vendors and support them.
8. Portobello Beach
One of the best things ever? The beach is not that far away! Just a few miles from the city centre is a charming seaside suburb.
Walk along the beach on a sunny day (but be prepared for some showers and winds too) and enjoy some delicious crêpes while you listen to the soothing waves crashing on the shore.
9. Sense of community
Despite being a university city with a constant flux of new people flying into Edinburgh every year, you will still find warm and friendly faces greeting you amidst a dull day in the rain, or just while you peacefully laze around in the meadows on a sunny day.
Additionally, according to a recent study, Edinburgh was ranked as the friendliest and safest city in the UK!
10. Bask in royalty
Apart from the Royal Mile and its beautiful historic heritage intact, the Palace of Holyrood amazes me. This is still the Queen’s official home during her visits to Scotland and her palace of choice in Edinburgh.
The palace is also open for a few hours for tourists to explore and see how it feels and what it looks like. The best part is that students get a discount on the ticket! This is definitely on my to-do list, and I can’t wait to check this off.
These were some of my top picks of this beautiful city, but it cannot be limited to just 10! There is still so much more to explore and I am going to utilise all the time I have here to walk around the city and be awestruck with everything around me.
What about you? What is next on your bucket-list?
Rhema is studying MSc International Human Resource Management (class of 2022).
If you have questions about life in Edinburgh or the student experience at the School, you can chat to Rhema on .