Romance in Edinburgh

It's September and summer is well and truly on its way out. But if you and your loved one are still looking to take advantage of that last burst of autumnal sunshine that the UK so regularly enjoys then what are you waiting for? Book a hostel in Edinburgh before crossing your fingers, praying to God or sacrificing a goat in the hope it doesn't rain.

If you're not lucky with the weather, though, then the city is still full of plenty of indoor opportunities to get romantic and have fun together before the biting cold sets in. One thing's for sure, exploring Edinburgh with your partner is one of the best ways to see the city, and you're guaranteed to impress them with any of the activities below.

Pay a visit to Edinburgh Zoo
If your partner appreciates wildlife from around the globe, they'll absolutely love Edinburgh Zoo. From lions and leopards to meerkats and mongooses, you'll find all levels of cuteness here to admire or swoon over. The venue is home to around 1,000 rare and endangered animals and a busy programme of events means there are plenty of opportunities to get close to all of them.

One thing you'll definitely want to do is drop in on Edinburgh's most talked-about couple: the two giant pandas which made headline news when they made the city their home only last year. Tian Tian and Yang Guang feature in an experience all on their own, although their immense popularity means that tickets must be booked in advance over the internet for those wanting to see the pair.

Shopping in the West End Village
Looking to purchase your lover that special holiday present that will ensure they remember your time in Edinburgh until the end of time? Or perhaps a ring to turn that magical evening into something even more special? Whatever you're seeking, you'll find it in Edinburgh's West End Village, a truly glorious network of Georgian streets tucked away behind Shandwick Place.

There are no big high-street names here. Home to the best independent retailers in the city, you'll find the shops here are packed with dozens of curious and completely unique knick-knacks. And if that's not enough to tempt you on a shopping spree, this area is also home to a number of award-winning pubs and restaurants lining William Street and Stafford Street – perfect for an after-shopping snack and a drink.

Dine in style at Ignite
This stylish Bengali and Indian restaurant can help you ignite (chortle) the passion with its own special approach to exotic cooking. Upon arrival, you'll be seated at a table with fresh flowers, ensuring that a romantic feel to the evening is already in the air by the time your poppadums arrive, complete with mango chutney and other Indian and African dips.

The cross-continental variety of dishes is certain to impress both you and your partner, and the restaurant's knowledgeable waiters are on hand to advise you on your choice of cuisine and side-dishes if you're spoilt for choice. Order a bottle of red wine or Champagne from their extensive drinks list before giving your taste buds a treat and digging into your incredible dinner. A dining experience unmatched by any other in the city.

Walking hand in hand
If walking is your passion then you will be thrilled to learn that Edinburgh is a beautiful city to spend a few hours simply allowing your own feet to carry you across the cobbled streets, taking in the sights and perhaps doing a bit of window shopping. The vast collection of historic buildings in the centre means that there is always architecture to be admired – cathedrals, churches and castles alike.

And if you run out of things to see along the Royal Mile, then you'll find fascinating paths in the city's old town to tread. The Scottish Parliament Building, the University of Edinburgh and the Royal Museum of Scotland are just some of the attractions that lie in this historic part of town, so it's well worth a visit if you're looking for some inspiring places to walk to.

Ice skating
What could be more romantic than gliding, hand in hand, across a floor of sparkling ice?  Or, if your sense of balance leaves a lot to be desired, at least you can laugh at one another as you slip, stumble and slide to your heart's content. Edinburgh features a number of ice rinks – both indoor and outdoor – so it's an activity which can be enjoyed whatever the weather.

Many of the rinks also offer private lessons taught by one of their professional skaters, so if you're looking to draw a love-heart in the ice to really impress your loved one, this should definitely be on your to-do list. Otherwise, just enjoy the experience together, and then finish with a post-skating coffee in one of the nearby cafes. Perfect.

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