Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is one of the most beautiful cities in the United Kingdom. A huge rush of people can be seen in Edinburgh. People come to Edinburgh for a variety of reasons. Many people visit here for travel purposes. On the other hand, many others intend to build their career. In addition, many students also visit here to get higher education.
When students visit Edinburgh, they play plenty of roles. Apart from being academics, they also act as travelers from time to time. They like to visit popular travel destinations in Edinburgh in their spare time with classmates or friends in the complex of their student accommodation Edinburgh.
Here, you will read about some popular landmarks in Edinburgh that students can visit.
Significant Landmarks in Edinburgh
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Palace of Holyroodhouse and Holyrood Abbey
The Palace of Holyroodhouse, which is usually referred to as Holyrood Palace, is the official Edinburgh residence of the Queen. It has officially been the center of Scottish history. It was built in 1678 and was the place where the marriages of two kings of Scotland, James II and James IV took place at different times. Moreover, James V and Charles I was crowned here. Furthermore, it is also the place where "Bonnie Prince Charlie", held court in 1745. Holyrood Palace was expanded after the Scottish Reformation.
The queen stays here only during the “Royal Week”, and she is away for the rest of 51 weeks. During that time, “public access” is permitted here. In 2002, the Queen’s Gallery was opened.
Holyrood Abbey is at the neighboring location of Holyrood Palace. It is a ruined abbey of Canons Regular. David I of Scotland founded this abbey in the year 1128. The abbey’s guesthouse was developed into a royal residence during the 15th century.
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Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is Scotland’s most popular landmark. It is one of the most visited landmarks in Britain. Some highlights of a visit to Edinburgh Castle include the National War Museum, the Scottish National War Memorial, an astonishing collection of Crown Jewels, and One O'clock Salute from Half Moon Battery.
The Stone of Destiny also known as the Stone of Scone is another notable stone. This stone was popularly stolen by Edward I and was placed under the English throne in England. After 700 years, in the year 1996, this stone was returned to Scotland.
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Royal Yacht Britannia
If you want to see one of Britain’s most popular attractions associated with the monarchy then the Royal Yacht Britannia can be a perfect place for you. Queen has welcomed heads of state as well as famous people from across the globe over the years to this luxurious vessel.
It is a more than 60-year-old yacht that served the Royal Family for more than 40 years. After that, it has been sent to the port area of Edinburgh as a centerpiece of the Britannia Visitor Center.
Once you are aboard, you will be able to learn about its history as well as the history of other royal yachts as you will explore the five main decks of the ship. Highlights of this yacht include the wonderful sun lounge, the royal apartments and bedrooms, and the onboard royal deck tea room. In the tea room, you can enjoy tea and cakes.
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Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is the name given to the streets linking Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. They are lined with fantastic townhouses, churches, and historical landmarks. It is a great place to stroll for its inns, shops, cafes, restaurants, and museums.
Some most popular attractions at this place are Outlook Tower, Camera Obscura, and the Tolbooth (St. John’s Highland Church) the city’s tallest church tower. Another worthy place to visit here is Lady Stair's Close, which is home to The Writer's Museum.
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National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland was opened in the year 2011. Since then, the National Museum has become one of the most famous attractions in Scotland. It is one of the free things to do in Edinburgh.
It welcomes two million visitors every year. It comprises collections from many of Edinburgh’s older museums. Its major highlights include medieval artifacts; national archeological collections; and displays focusing on natural history, art, geology, science, and technology.
The museum has 16 galleries, which contain more than 8000 artifacts. The prominent ones include Dolly the sheep (the world’s first cloned mammal) and some more elaborate stage costumes by Elton John. Material from ancient Egypt and the infamous Maiden (an early form of the guillotine) is also part of the display in the traditional museum.
Endnote
There are many other such travel destinations in Edinburgh, which students can enjoy visiting during their stay in this city.
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