Attractions 2

Situated on the High Street section of the Royal Mile, St Giles was founded in 1120 although a church has probably stood on this spot since the 800s.The present church dates externally from around 1833 and the interior from a restoration in 1883. Despite the name it is not in fact a Cathedral except between the years 1633-1638 and 1661-1681. By 1800 it was in a state of disrepair and was used for more than church business as it included a police office and fire engine house and was divided inside. Today it still serves as a church.

http://www.stgilescathedral.org.uk/

Lying approximately half way down the Royal Mile this house is one of the oldest in Edinburgh, dating from the early 1500s. It is supposed that the religious Reformation leader John Knox lived here (1513-1572) but this is not authenticated.By 1847 the house was in a ruinous state and was at the point of being demolished when the Society of Antiquaries stepped in to save it. Today inside the newly renovated building are original painted ceilings and exhibitions not only on John Knox but on James Mosman, hanged for his service to Mary Queen of Scots who did actually live there in the 1500s.

http://www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk/john_knox_house/scottish_storytelling_jkhouse.asp

This castle is located 4 miles north west of the city centre near Davidson's Mains. Left to the city by the last private owners in 1926, this tower house was built in the 1590s and extended during the 1820s. It's Edwardian interior has been preserved reflecting the tastes of the wealthy middle class collectors of the period. Several outdoor events are held annually in its grounds, its croquet lawns are used by the Edinburgh Croquet club.

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

This castle is located 3 miles south east of the city centre. It is a 14th century L shape stone tower house, fortified in the 15th century by a massive enclosure with towers at the corners. There is also a courtyard and gardens. A broad spiral staircase connects the castle's 3 levels although the castle is partially in ruins.

http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/propertyresults/propertyoverview.htm?PropID=PL_123

Just down from the Castle this centre brings 300 years of Whiskey heritage to life. This interactive centre allows you to experience the sights sounds and smells of whisky and to discover how it is made. You can travel on a barrel ride to meet the characters that made Scotch whisky unique, meet the blender's ghost and eat in the Amber restaurant.

http://www.whisky-heritage.co.uk/

The garden was started in 1957 by George Anderson who sited it on the south facing part of his estate. It was left to the National Trust when he died in 1972 and administered by Oatridge College who unfortunately pulled out this summer. They are now in the process of looking for more volunteers to keep the gardens going and it is under control of the National Trust.
Suntrap ran evening classes, workshops and a gardening club as well as horticultural courses for students from day centres and special schools but without Oatridge these have had to be cancelled.
It is a very friendly and helpful place but under visited - a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. A must see is the fantastic Italian garden section and they also sell various types of plants.
It is situated in the Gogar area in the west of the city between the A71 at Heriot Watt/Park and Ride and the A8 Royal Bank Scotland. The address is 43 Gogarbank and there is parking on site. If using a bus the LRT 34 & 25 to Hermiston park and ride then walk over Calder Road and down Gogar Station Road then turn left. Horsburgh buses also run service 400 that goes past the front door. Well worth the visit and check out their website. NEWS: Please visit their website below and if you can offer your services as a volunteer you would be made very welcome.

http://www.sos2010.btck.co.uk/Home