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Uncovering 15 Hidden Gems in Edinburgh

| Last Updated: August 2024

You might think you’ve seen all the twists and turns of our beloved Edinburgh, but, trust me, it’s got more hidden nooks than a magician’s cape! 

There’s this one time when I feel all adventurous (or maybe just bored of my bedroom), and I go out to stroll some of its quirky corners and shadowed alleys. Little did I know, I was in for a treat with some of its spots, which even I had never been into.

Now, as your unofficial guide and ultimate reveal party host, I’m beyond stoked to share these jaw-dropping, eye-popping, crowd-stopping (nope, not exaggerating here!) hidden gems in Edinburgh that I stumbled upon. So, read on!

Jupiter Artland 

Media credit: jupiterartland

Website: http://www.jupiterartland.org/ 

Address: The Steadings, Bonnington House, Wilkieston

Contact details: +44 150 688 9900

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM

Hiding in plain sight in Wilkieston, Jupiter Artland is an outdoor art experience that meshes the wonders of nature with the creativity of modern sculptures. With each turn, you’re going to bump into towering sculptures and secret hollows filled with art.

And let’s not gloss over the interactive pieces where you become part of the art—kids and adults alike can’t get enough of that. Besides gawking at the amazing art installations, Jupiter Artland has workshops and events throughout the year.

Think hands-on clay modelling sessions, photography classes, and even nighttime events where the artworks light up in ways you’ve got to see to believe. They’ve got a cosy café too, perfect for contemplative sips of coffee after your stroll.

Pro tip: 

Remember to keep an eye out for their seasonal events, especially the summer evenings when the place transforms completely. If you fancy a quieter visit, late afternoons during the week are your best bet to have the artwork all to yourself.

Dr. Neil’s Garden 

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Website: http://www.drneilsgarden.co.uk/ 

Address: 5 Old Church Ln, Duddingston

Contact details: +44 784 918 7995

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM

Dr. Neil’s Garden in Duddingston is known as Edinburgh’s secret garden for good reason. Tucked behind the old walls of Duddingston Kirk, most folks walk right past the entrance without a second glance.

Inside, expect to come across lush, tranquil, and the kind of views you’ll want to capture. Every path here leads to charming discoveries, be it the ponds teeming with wildlife or the cosy nooks where you can’t resist having a sit-and-stay a while.

Moreover, this garden was lovingly cultivated as a space for peace and reflection. Visitors here are encouraged to take a leisurely stroll, admire the lochside, or even try their hand at gardening during volunteer days.

Pro tip: 

Don’t miss out on the small, unassuming café near the entrance. It serves the most delightful treats and teas, perfect for a quiet break amidst your exploration.

The Real Mary King’s Close 

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Website: https://realmarykingsclose.com/ 

Address: 2 Warriston’s Cl.

Contact details: +44 131 225 0672

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 10 PM

The Real Mary King’s Close is where history buffs and ghost hunters alike converge. Nestled beneath the bustling streets of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, this underground labyrinth tells tales of the city’s past that you won’t find in any tour guide.

Led by characters clad in period costumes, the tours here are as entertaining as they are enlightening. Beyond the spooks and spectres, what’s genuinely intriguing about The Real Mary King’s Close is learning about the lives of its former inhabitants.

You know how they loved, lived, struggled, and thrived right beneath the feet of today’s shoppers and sightseers.

Pro tip: 

Make sure you book your tickets in advance, especially during Edinburgh’s festival season. And if you’re one for a bit of extra spook, aim for the evening tours—they add an extra layer of eeriness to the whole experience.

St. Giles’ Cathedral 

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Website: https://stgilescathedral.org.uk/ 

Address: High St.

Contact details: +44 131 226 0674

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 6 PM
  • Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday – 1 PM to 5 PM

St. Giles’ Cathedral might not be the most under-the-radar spot in Edinburgh, but its nooks and crannies have stories that many visitors overlook. 

Famous for its stunning stained-glass windows and impressive gothic architecture, it holds centuries of history within its walls.

Here, you can take guided tours to uncover the secrets of the cathedral’s past or climb up the tower for panoramic views of the city. There’s also the Thistle Chapel, with its intricate carvings and noble insignias—it’s like stepping back in time.

Pro tip: 

Don’t forget to check out the small gift shop hidden inside; it’s got some unique finds. Also, don’t skip the opportunity to attend an organ recital if your visit lines up—they’re breathtaking.

Panda & Sons 

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Website: http://www.pandaandsons.com/ 

Address: 79 Queen St.

Contact details: +44 131 220 0443

Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Friday – 4 PM to 1 AM
  • Saturday – 2 PM to 1 AM
  • Sunday – 3 PM to 1 AM

Panda & Sons on Queen Street flips the concept of a bar on its head—literally, since it’s disguised as a vintage barbershop. Walking in, you might half expect a shave and a haircut, but push through the bookshelf (yep, a bookshelf), and you’re in a cocktail spot.

The drinks here are crafted with four different types of techniques (switching, sous pressure, freeze drying, and cryo concentration), all of which are creative and turn the drinks into works of art.

The staff knows their stuff and is ready to recommend or concoct something on the spot based on your tastes. And the vibe here, by the way, is speakeasy cool meets modern mixology, with a dash of cheeky humour thrown in.

Pro tip: 

This place might be hidden, but it’s still a popular spot, so booking a table on weekends is a smart move if you prefer your speakeasy experience without the squeeze.

National Museum of Scotland’s Rooftop Terrace 

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Website: https://www.nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-scotland/ 

Address: Chambers St.

Contact details: +44 300 123 6789

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM

So, you’ve walked through the National Museum of Scotland, marvelling at everything from dinosaur bones to Dolly the sheep, and you think you’ve seen it all. But wait, there’s a secret spot here that not everyone knows about.

Go and head up to the Rooftop Terrace, and bam, Edinburgh’s skyline unfolds before you in a way that’s just, well, brilliant. This is where you get to see iconic landmarks like the Castle, Arthur’s Seat, and the Scott Monument from a vantage point.

Now, apart from soaking in the views, this is also a fantastic spot to capture the beauty of Edinburgh from a unique angle.

Pro tip: 

Most folks visit the museum during the day, but if you can swing by later in the afternoon (check the closing times as they vary by season), you’ll catch the sunset from the terrace.

Plus, it’s less crowded then, making it feel even more like your own secret spot.

Cramond 

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Directions

Cramond lies on the edge of Edinburgh and feels a world away from the city’s streets and bustling cafes. This little village by the sea, obviously, offers charming waterfront, boats in the harbour, and paths that meander along the river and out to the Forth.

The real kicker here is the causeway leading to Cramond Island, accessible only at low tide. There’s plenty to do here aside from the scenic walk, though.

You can either explore the remains of Roman settlements, sit in a quaint cafe nearby, or follow one of the many walking trails that offer both woodland peace and open sea views. For history buffs, the WWII defences on Cramond Island is your spot.

Pro tip: 

The tides wait for no one, and getting stranded on the island isn’t as fun as it sounds. So, better check the tide times before you head out to Cramond Island.

Also, there’s a board at the start of the causeway with the times, or you can look it up online to be extra sure.

The Stand Comedy Club 

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Website: https://www.thestand.co.uk/whats-on/edinburgh 

Address: 5 York Pl.

Contact details: +44 131 558 7272

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 12 AM

For anyone who thinks Edinburgh only shines during the Fringe, let me introduce you to The Stand Comedy Club. This place is the beating heart of the city’s comedy scene year-round, offering up laughs every night of the week.

It’s where local talents and touring pros stand elbow to elbow, ready to split your sides with their wit. Beyond the laughs, they’ve got a pretty solid menu for a comedy club, with Thai and Southeast Asian inspired street-food to choose from.

Plus, their drink selection has enough variety to make everyone happy. They also host special events, including open-mic nights for those brave enough to try their hand at comedy and themed nights that cater to various humour tastes.

Pro tip: 

Tickets sell out fast, especially for the more renowned acts, so booking in advance is a good idea. 
It’s also worth noting that their kitchen isn’t daily available, so you better check their event schedule beforehand if you want some snacks to complement your experience.

Dean Village

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Website: https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/dean-village-p1419651 

Address: Dean Path

Contact details: N/A

Operating hours: 

  • Open 24 hours

Dean Village, nestled along the Water of Leith, was once a milling hub. Now, it’s like you’ve stumbled into this peaceful hideout with cobbled streets, charming old buildings, and the river babbling through it.

Besides the obvious allure of the village itself, you can follow the Water of Leith walkway on either side of the river, leading you to other hidden gems in Edinburgh, like the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.

And for those who love diving into history, the village’s milling past is woven into the very fabric of the place, with informational plaques scattered around to enlighten curious minds.

Pro tip: 

Make sure you wear comfortable shoes because you’ll want to explore every nook and cranny of this enchanting place. 

Lauriston Castle 

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Website: http://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/Venues/Lauriston-Castle.aspx 

Address: 2 Cramond Rd., S.

Contact details: +44 131 336 2060

Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Friday – 9 AM to 4:30 PM
  • Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 5:30 PM

Lauriston Castle isn’t one of those flashy castles with knights and jousting. It’s more understated elegance, set against the backdrop of stunning gardens and overlooking the Firth of Forth.

Expect to come across meticulously maintained Japanese gardens, a greenhouse full of exotic plants, and paths great for strolling. The castle itself, with its Edwardian interiors, is a treasure trove of antiques and stories, offering a glimpse into Edinburgh’s past.

Apart from the usual castle-hopping activities, it also has workshops and events. From storytelling sessions that bring the castle’s history to life to photography workshops, there’s always something happening.

Pro tip: 

Remember to keep an eye on their calendar for their outdoor theatre events in the summer. Also, don’t forget to bring a blanket or a chair, and maybe a warm coat, because Edinburgh evenings can be chilly, even in the summer.

Surgeons’ Hall Museums 

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Website: https://museum.rcsed.ac.uk/ 

Address: Nicolson St.

Contact details: +44 131 527 1711

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM

The Surgeons’ Hall Museums is where you’ll see the world of surgical advancements, from the earliest days of almost barbaric practices to the finesse of modern-day surgery. 

Exhibits here showcase everything from antique surgical tools that look more like torture devices to pathological specimens that are both eerie and captivating.

But it’s not all about the shivers and the shakes. The museum also runs workshops and talks that are super engaging and typically cover a wide range of topics, from historical medical practices to the ethics of surgery today.

Pro tip: 

Don’t forget to check out their workshop schedule before you go. Some of these sessions are incredibly eye-opening and offer a more hands-on way to engage with the history of medicine. 

And remember, this place isn’t for the faint of heart, so maybe don’t plan to eat right before you visit.

Museum on the Mound 

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Website: https://museumonthemound.com/ 

Address: St. James’s Place Bank

Contact details: +44 131 243 5464

Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Friday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday – 1 PM to 5 PM

The Museum on the Mound takes you into the less grisly but equally fascinating world of money, and the cool part is set inside an actual historic bank building. This place breaks down the whole lifecycle of money, from creation to destruction.

There are loads of interactive displays here, like how you can try your hand at breaking into a safe, design your own banknote, and even get a glimpse of what a million pounds looks like up close.

Aside from playing with piles of (fake) cash, the museum provides a ton of insights into the history of banking and how it’s shaped society. And for anyone who thinks that sounds a bit dry, I promise it’s way more engaging than you might expect.

Pro tip: 

They often have temporary exhibitions on topics like the history of counterfeit money or the evolution of digital banking, which can add something extra to your visit, so definitely check out what’s on before you go.

Writer’s Museum 

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Website: https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/writers-museum 

Address: Lawnmarket, Lady Stair’s Cl.

Contact details: +44 131 529 4901

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM

Tucked away in a charming neighbourhood just off the Royal Mile, The Writer’s Museum is the place for any literature buff. The museum celebrates the lives and works of Scotland’s literary giants: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.

Walking through, you’ll find personal belongings, rare books, and manuscripts that provide an intimate glimpse into their worlds. It feels a bit like you’re snooping through their stuff, but in the best possible way.

Apart from just wandering, the museum hosts regular events, readings, and exhibitions that dive even deeper into the Scottish literary tradition.

Pro tip: 

The museum itself is quite small, so it’s worth combining your visit with a walk around the Royal Mile and exploring more of the hidden alleys and courtyards nearby. It’s like a little literary and historical scavenger hunt all in one.

Colinton Station & Tunnel

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Website: http://www.colintontunnel.org.uk/ 

Address: Colinton Tunnel

Contact details: https://www.colintontunnel.org.uk/contact 

Operating hours: 

  • Open 24 hours

Colinton Station and its accompanying tunnel might just be the coolest pieces of urban art you’ll stumble upon in Edinburgh. The tunnel is like a walk-through gallery, with each section telling a different story, illuminated by the colourful and detailed wall artwork.

Once part of a railway line, this spot has been transformed into a public art project, featuring murals that bring to life the poetry of Robert Louis Stevenson, who had ties to the area.

For those who like to stretch their legs, the tunnel is also part of a longer walking and cycling path. Moreover, the area surrounding the tunnel offers lovely spots for picnicking.

Pro tip: 

Make sure you bring a camera because you’re going to want to capture the artwork. Each mural has so many details that you’ll notice something new with every look.

Portobello Beach 

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Website: https://portobellobeach.com/ 

Address: 1 Promenade

Contact details: N/A

Operating hours: 

  • Open 24 hours

Portobello Beach is Edinburgh’s own little slice of seaside charm. With its long stretch of sand and iconic promenade, it’s ideal for anyone looking to chill by the sea, enjoy some ice cream, or dive into some beachside fish and chips.

And if you’re feeling a bit more active, there’s always something happening here, from volleyball matches and swimming to kayaking and sailing.

It’s also surrounded by cool cafes, quirky shops, and traditional pubs that are worth exploring once you’ve had your fill of sea air.

Pro tip: 

If you’re up for it, try taking a dip in the outdoor, heated Portobello Swim Center. It’s an old-school lido experience that feels a bit like time travel, and it’s a great way to warm up after a brisk swim in the Scottish sea.

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