Historical Edinburgh Attractions

People visiting hostels in Edinburgh who have a penchant for history are likely to be thrilled by what's on offer. Take a look at some of the attractions below, and remember that what's here is only a taste of what you'll be able to experience.

Edinburgh Castle
The crown jewel in the treasure trove that is the city's heritage, Edinburgh Castle should be the first destination on the list of any historian visiting the city. Built into the rugged rock overlooking Prince Street, it's undoubtedly Scotland's most famous castle, and easily the most-visited tourist attraction in the country.

There are a number of must-see artefacts and displays featured here. Visit the crown room and witness the splendour of Scotland's Crown Jewels. Or take a look at the Stone of Destiny, which is every bit as historically-important as its name makes it sound: it's where past Scottish monarchs were crowned.

It's worth purchasing tickets online in advance if you can, as the castle is very busy at this time of year. Castlehill, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH1 2NG.

Hopetourn House
Situated just outside the hustle and bustle of the main city, Hopetourn House is commonly regarded as Scotland's finest stately home. The humble abode of the Marquess of Linlithglow, Hopetourn is an utterly splendid example of superb Scottish architecture, having been designed and constructed by local lads Sir William Bruce and William Adam.

Currently open to the public (but hurry – only until the end of September! Then it's closed for the winter) the house and grounds have been lovingly preserved by the Hopetourn Preservation Society, and they make sure that this site of rural beauty and national heritage is thriving with things to do. Hopetoun Estates, Newton, Broxburn, West Lothian, EH52 6QD, 0131 331 1546.

Edinburgh Dungeon
Even if castles and country houses aren't your cup of tea, you can still enjoy some of Edinburgh's more gruesome and horrible history in a more interactive environment. Live actors, thrilling rides and special effects used to bring some of the darkest moments in the city's past come to life are sure to raise the hairs on the back of your neck.

You'll fit right in here if you have a taste for the macabre. Fancy meeting local legend Sawney Bean, who had a taste for human flesh? Or the murderous twosome Burke and Hare, who turned serial killing into an enterprise when they sold corpses for dissection materials? The Dungeons also feature an underground boat ride and the ever popular 'Extremisis' drop ride, making for a wickedly fun attraction which also manages to be educational. 31 Market Street, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH1 1QB, 0845 859 1006.

Secrets of the Royal Mile
This tour, provided by Mercat Tours, is a great way to locate some of the hidden historical gems located along Edinburgh's prestigious Royal Mile. Follow your feet to the places where the guide books don't venture, and enjoy a unique journey around the sites, stories and secrets of Old Town that you would otherwise have missed entirely.

The tour serves as the perfect introduction to Edinburgh, its people and its culture. Learn the  and history of this fascinating part of the city. You'll also find a number of historical sites tucked between the houses, so take a look round the courtyards, wynds and churches in this area, each with a gruesome story or three to enjoy. 28 Blair Street, Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH1 1QR, 0131 225 5445.

Glenkinchie Distillery and Visitors Centre
Few places in Edinburgh can boast more history than the Glenkinchie distillery. The self-proclaimed 'Home of the Edinburgh Malt' is located in the rolling hills of the Lothian countryside and is made up of a number of beautiful red-brick listed buildings.

In 1745, Prince Charles Edward Stuart visited the area at the peak of his brief reign of power. His highlanders defeated John Crope's Hanoverian forces with such certainty that the entirety of Scotland looked ripe for the taking, and even London itself appeared to be trembling. In 1777, there were around four hundred distilleries in this location, although most of them were illegal and you'd probably want to avoid their particular brand of alcohol if you valued your life!

With this level of history explored in such splendid surroundings, you're guaranteed a good time. Glenkinchie Distillery, Pencaitland, Tranent, East Lothian, EH34 5ET, 01875 342004.

The Kirk of Greyfriars
The Kirk of Greyfriars was the first church constructed in Edinburgh after the reformation, making it a very special place indeed. Taking its name from an old Franciscan monastery on the eastern end of Grassmarket, special permission was granted by Mary Queen of Scots in 1562 to construct a burial yard known today as one of the most impressive grave sites in all of England.

That's not the only accolade that the Kirk has attained, however – it is also the most photographed location in the entire city, thanks to the famous story of Greyfriars Bobby, a little terrier whose tale has touched hearts around the world. Bobby's devotion to his master was said to have been so strong that he remained by his grave for many years after he died. Now, tourists flock to the Kirk of Greyfriars every day to pose next to his statue, which stands just outside the graveyard, as the real Bobby used to do. 86 Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh, EH1 2QA.

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