INSPIRATION
By Mark Cameron
August 2026
Arrive in style – Calidonian sleeper
With trains from London to Edinburgh & across Scotland, the Caledonian Sleeper trains allow you to travel Scotland in comfort and style.
Website: sleeper.scot
FRIDAY EVENING CHECK IN
Ibis, Royal Mile Edinburgh
Ibis Edinburgh Royal Mile is prime location right in the heart of the city centre for the duration of your stay. Whether you’re in town to shop, party, take in a show or all of the above, the modern décor, friendly staff, hearty breakfast spread and spotless modern rooms come together to provide you with the ultimate mini break – for a lot less than you might think.
A NIGHT CAP – The Bow Bar
This no-frills pub has 220 Scotch malt whiskies on display in a huge mahogany case behind the bar. There’s also a wide range of real ales, but ask the bartender to introduce you to a wee dram.
Address: The Bow Bar, 80 West Bow, Edinburgh EH1 2HH
Telephone: +44 131 226 7667
Website: thebowbar.co.uk
SATURDAY BREAKFAST
Dishoom, St Andrews Square Edinburgh
Wake up and head down to Dishoom for Breakfast Naan Rolls – Each naan is freshly baked by hand, and to order in the tandoor oven. It is then graced with a little cream cheese, chilli tomato jam and fresh herbs, and wrapped around one of these first-rate fillings.
Address: Dishoom, 3a St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2BD
Telephone: +44131 2026 406
Website: dishoom.com
The Scott Monument
Daily guided tours of the Scott Monument. The tours run every half an hour from 10am until 4.30pm, which is the last admission. To book please get in touch directly with the Scott Monument or you may purchase tickets upon arrival.
Lunch Stop – Cairngorm Coffee
If you need another hit of caffeine head to Carngorm Coffee with two location in the city centre. The door step grilled cheese sandwiches are legendary.
Address: Cairngorm Coffee, 41a Fedrik Street & 1 Mellvile Pkwcr Edinburgh
Website: cairngormcoffee.com
Sunday – catch a view above the city
After breakfast, stretch your legs on route up to an extinct volcano for the best views in town at Arthur’s Seat. Despite a steep climb, it’s only a short walk and so makes for an easy hike.
Lunch at rose street garden
The Rose Street Garden is a new and unique outdoor space in the heart of Edinburgh. Using local suppliers and locally sourced products. Offering a wide range of premium beers, wines, spirits and cocktails .
Address: Rose Street Garden, (Behind The Dome) Rose Street EH2 3DT
Telephone: +44131 624 8633
Website: rosestreetgarden.com