11 Reasons Why You Need to Visit Edinburgh in Autumn
There’s something about autumn in Edinburgh, with the leaves changing colour and the jam-packed streets becoming more laid back. It’s in the tourist lull between the Fringe and the Christmas season that Edinburgh truly comes alive. In this blog, our boutique Edinburgh hotel shares some secrets on why Edinburgh is a must-visit city in the autumn.
Delicious seasonal farmers markets
The changing of the seasons brings new and delicious produce to Edinburgh Farmers’ Market. Taking place every Saturday, it’s a great excuse to sample new things and support small, local businesses. Not only selling foodstuff, you can also find candles or other gifts, so why not get an early start on your Christmas shopping?
Halloween
No one does Halloween like Edinburgh. Taking over the whole city, there are lots of events and everyone gets involved in the decorations. Discover the spooky tales of Edinburgh’s past on a ghost tour, or join in with the Edinburgh Horror Festival.
The castle surrounded by autumnal trees
The changing of the trees is always beautiful, but when paired with the forever striking Edinburgh Castle, the views are spectacular. The brilliant reds and oranges contrast the stark grey stone of the rock, making for amazing images.
Samhuinn Fire Festival
Atop Calton Hill, the Samhuinn Fire Festival overlooks Edinburgh on Halloween night. Dramatic stories of Winter overthrowing Summer are set to drumming, fire-play and dance. This immersive performance invites you not to sit, but to move amongst the characters and interact as they weave through the night.
The streets are quieter
We love the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh in summer, but after the Fringe Festival is over and before the busy winter crowds, it’s nice to have some tranquility. Explore the city’s most beautiful historic attractions without the mass of tourists, enjoying the opportunity to take better photos and spend more time at each location.
Atmospheric views from Arthur’s Seat
Come rain, fog, or shine, Arthur’s Seat will forever hold breathtaking views of Edinburgh. At this time of year, the two hour trek will be a little less crowded, providing even more opportunities to stop for photographs, picnics, or refreshment breaks.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Celebrating the long tradition of storytelling, the Scottish International Storytelling Festival takes place in October every year. Not strict to any one culture, you can celebrate diversity and discover the tales of societies past and present, fact or fiction.
Discover an array of unique shops
Often tourist traps in summer, Edinburgh’s many shopping streets hold an abundance of hidden gems. From small businesses, to vintage stores, to independent restaurants, to themed shops, there’s something for every kind of shopper.
Rainy days spent at museums
There’s no shortage of ways to spend a rainy day in Edinburgh, but meandering through a museum has to be one of the best. Immerse yourself in history and heritage at the National Museum of Scotland, or gaze in awe at famous masterpieces in the Scottish National Gallery.
Indulge in heartwarming local food
Scottish comfort food is the best, but haggis or neeps and tatties just aren’t the same in the heat. Autumn is the best season to delight in our traditional, hearty favourites. Small independent bakeries also provide rich hot chocolates, and you’ve got to try a battered mars bar.
The Royal Botanic Garden changes colour
Although the garden is preparing for its winter hibernation, in some ways autumn feels more alive than any other season. An explosion of colour, the scarlet apples on Malus Pumila ‘Dartmouth’ are a sight to behold, and the beautiful Bowden Lilies will be showcasing their pink colouring.
At the end of a packed autumn day, there’s no better place to unwind than our beautiful, boutique hotel.
