1. Jupiter Artland, Wilkieston
A little out of town. Worth finding, though, because this sculpture park is so unusual, you’ll find it endlessly fascinating. It’s unique, restful and great fun to climb the pyramids. We love the healthy cafe, too, which is run by Edinburgh institution Milk.
Where: EH27 8BB
2. Mousehole Deli, Portobello
You’ll find all manner of breads, chutneys and home-made treats here. We love the quiche, the apple pies and the friendly service.
Where: EH15 1AF
3. Newhaven Harbour, Newhaven
Pretty at any time, but especially so at sunset. Take a wander, then have a drink in the Harbour Inn. Cheers!
Where: EH6 7DN
4. Yellow Bench, Edinburgh
Outside Yellow Bench cafe. On it is printed: By sitting on this bench I am open to have a conversation with a complete stranger. Aww!
Where: EH7 4NY
5. Mimi’s Bakehouse, Leith
This retro cafe makes great caramel latte cake and, during the festival, has a cake stall in the city centre.
Where: EH6 6RA
6. Dean Village, Edinburgh
Hard to believe it’s a few minutes from Princes Street – it’s another world. Picture perfect and peaceful.
Where: EH8 8BH
7. Cramond Island
Walk to the island when the tide is low. Interesting WWII buildings and a nice escape from the city buzz.
Where: EH4 6NU
8. Braw, Dean Village
Lovely cafe in Dean Village which makes sensational sausage stovies. And their Mars cheesecake is yum.
Where: EH4 3BR
9. Stockbridge Market
This Sunday market is in one of the nicest parts of Edinburgh and you’ll find dozens of great stalls with tempting eats, jewellery and even furniture. Don’t leave without having a crepe.
Where: EH3 6TQ
10. Gilmerton Cove
It’s a network of hand-carved passageways. No-one knows what they were for, but theories include a drinking den for Edinburgh’s posh people and a smuggler’s lair. We’ll never know!
Where: EH17 8QH
11. Morningside Wild West Cowboy Street, Edinburgh
Many people think of Morningside as genteel and elegant. So this street – officially Spring Valley Gardens – is all the more surprising. Complete with saloon and jail.
Where: EH10 4QF
12. Hoot the Redeemer, Edinburgh
A quirky underground bar selling alcoholic cocktail slushies and ice cream. We love planet peanut!
Where: EH2 2DL
13. Sicilian Pastry Shop, Leith
You must try genuine Sicilian treats like cartocci – a donut-like case filled with custard. Fab but fattening!
Where: EH7 5LG
14. Aquila, Edinburgh
This quirky gift shop sells unusual prints, jewellery and cards. Just off the Royal Mile, but a world away from the over-priced tourist shops of the city centre.
Where: EH1 1DT
15. Dr Neil’s Garden, Duddingston Village
It was created from a tip, but you’d never know. Run by volunteers, it’s an oasis of serenity near Arthur’s Seat.
Where: EH15 3PX
Want to explore more of Scotland? Head to our Scottish Gems section.
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