History and Future Collide in Edinburgh

A July 2002 trip to Edinburgh by jl32

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a blissful three-hour jaunt by train from the bustle of London and welcomes all visitors with a distinct mix of history and modern European charm.

  • 4 reviews

Balmoral HotelBest of IgoUgo

Hotel | "The Balmoral"

Check-in and check-out takes on new meaning at The Balmoral, and you'll be hard pressed to find better lodging anywhere. It's classically beautiful, while still cutting edge. If you can ante up and afford the huge room rates here, you'll be treated to the best service and highest degree of luxury in the Scottish capital, with views that are nothing short of breathtaking.
  • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by jl32 on September 16, 2005

Balmoral Hotel
1 Princes Street Edinburgh, Scotland EH2 2EQ
44 131 556 2414

Rhodes & CoBest of IgoUgo

Restaurant | "Rhodes & Co."

In Britain, Gary Rhodes has become what Emeril Lagasse has in the United States. A celebrity chef, Rhodes' face and name can be seen plugging everything from corn syrup to cookbooks. Perhaps his best business move is the cozy Rhodes & Co., situated in the heart of town, next to the city's historic Jenner's department store. Even in the city center, Rhodes & Co. is tucked away, out of sight from the bustle of major roads.

The restaurant is decorated with Rothko prints and bright hardwood floors. The food, is inventive and draws from across borders. I enjoyed an order of Spinach and Artichoke Dip for appetizer, and a very earthy black truffle rissotto for my main dish. The lunch menu offers a wide array of chicken, fish, lamb, and other meats, prepared in a variety of sauces and styles like Indian Curry and English Yorkshire Pudding. You'll pay a hefty sum for your meal at Rhodes & Co., but with such skilled preparation and presentation, would you have it any other way?

  • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by jl32 on June 22, 2003

Rhodes & Co
3-15 Rose Street Edinburgh, Scotland
0131220 9190

Holyroodhouse PalaceBest of IgoUgo

Attraction | "Holyrood Palace"

The royals don't let us down. When the Windsors live, they live large, and Holyrood Palace is no exception. It's a must-see for its expansive courtyards, ornate ceilings, and heavily embellished living spaces. It's an Edinburgh staple, so be sure to see it before you bail.
  • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by jl32 on September 16, 2005

Holyroodhouse Palace
The Royal Mile. Edinburgh, Scotland EH8 8DX
+44 (131) 556 5100

Scotch Whisky Heritage CentreBest of IgoUgo

Attraction | "The Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre"

Scotch whiskey. Need I say more? You'll drink a lot of scotch while you're in Edinburgh (or at least you should) and this place is the definitive (slightly self-proclaimed, perhaps) source for all things Scotch--see how it's made, the culture behind it, and did I mention drinking it? This place's great location next to the castle means you won't have to go off the beaten path to get your drink on.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by jl32 on September 16, 2005

Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
354 Castlehill Edinburgh, Scotland EH1 2NE
+44 131 220 0441

About the Writer

jl32
jl32
Chicago, Illinois

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