Visit Edinburgh This Autumn

2 September 2019

For many Autumn is the most favourite season of the year. As the nights draw in, it's time for you to enjoy this wonderful season in one of our most vibrant and popular locations.

10 Things To Do In Edinburgh This Autumn

Experience Halloween In Edinburgh

Take a walk down a 17th century street, located under the Royal Mile and travel back in time to the bustling Mary Kings Close to find out the truth behind Edinburgh's dark past.

Witness the transition from summer to winter at the Celtic Samhuinn Fire Festival, located at the top of Carlton Hill. 

Or if scares are your thing, take one of Mercat Tours' special Halloween tours - from family friendly 'Gory Stories' to the terrifying 'Haunted Halloween' located at Blair Street Underground Vault.

Edinburgh Halloween

Explore Edinbught's 101 Objects

Step into Edinburgh's history by visiting the 101 of the city's most treasured objects. You can explore the city at your own pace with suggested itineraries from 'Books, Words & Ideas' which includes the statue of Greyfriars Bobby and the Scott Monument to 'On the Dark Side', including the Witches Well and the Door from Prisons of War.

Greyfriars Bobby

There Is A Festival For Everyone

Although the summer festival season has come to an end, there is still so much to see and do in Edinburgh. 

Lose yourself in the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, try something new at the Scottish Vegan Festival, see what Scottish gin has to offer at the Gin Festival or celebrate the multi-cultural city that Edinburgh has become at Oktoberfest. 

Oktoberfest

Retrace The Footsteps Of Harry Potter

Although Harry Potter is a household name across the globe, did you know that J.K. Rowling penned the book in Edinburgh? 

Why not visit The Elephant House where J.K Rowling went to write her manuscripts or, Greyfriars Kirkyard where you will find the grave of Tom Riddle. Explore the Grassmarket where you will find the inspiration behind Diagon Alley or head to Museum Context or The Boy Wizard, where you can buy all things wizarding. 

Harry Potter

Unusual Cafes And Bars

From Cat Cafes to Dog Houses there are a number of unusual places to relax in the city. 

If you like retro, try Please Don't Tell (PDT) - where you can play Pacman or Dance Dance Revolution or The Brass Monkey which has cushions and mattresses instead of seating, screens cult classics at 3pm everyday and you can bring your own beer. 

For something a little different try Panda & Sons. Although difficult to find it is well worth it. This speakeasy bar is rated as one of Edinburgh's best. 

Cat Cafe

Take A Walk On The Wild Side

Want to explore the city differently this autumn?

Why not hike up Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano, for excellent views of the city. Or explore the Royal Botanic Garden and discover a history that dates back almost 350 years. 

There are so many walking routes in and around the city such as, Cramond Island, the Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill or The John Muir Way, for walkers and hikers of any level. 

Botanic Gardens Edinburgh

Witness The Weird And Wonderful

With five floors filled with illusions Camera Obscura is something you don't want to miss during your time in Edinburgh. At 150 years old, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is home to tricks, puzzles, hands-on experiences and one of the best views in the city. Learn about the history of the camera and how technology has progressed to allow us to create the effects we have today.

Camera Obscura

Foodies Dream

There is something for everyone in Edinburgh, there's an array of Michelin starred restaurants, a vibrant street food scene and plenty of hidden gems waiting for you to discover them. For those that want to learn more about some of Scotland's drinks, the Scotch Whisky Experience and Edinburgh Gin's distillery tour will prove an enjoyable and informative experience. 

Surf & Turf

History At Your Fingertips

From the Dynamic Earth and the National Museum of Scotland to the Museum of Childhood and The People's Story, immerse yourself in Scotland's history and culture from the very beginning. A number of the museums in Edinburgh are free to enter so take advantage of this rainy day activity and learn something new! 

National Museum of Scotland

Escape The City

Set just outside Edinburgh, Macdonald Houstoun House is the ideal location for exploring east central Scotland.  From the beaches and the River Forth to the Pentlands and beyond.

Back to Macdonald Houstoun House you will experience our tranquil woodland setting, delicious food served in the Tower Restaurant and our leisure club & spa for the ultimate in relaxation.

Exterior, Houstoun House