Hotel inspected by the Tourist Board (Visit Scotland) for level of service and facilities. (Reflected in the number of stars awarded)Hotels that are inspected by the AA for their level of service and facilities are reflected in the number of stars awarded.Best Western star rating

Art and Culture

Host to some unique displays of world renowned art, photography and other creativity, Edinburgh has quite the most interesting range of galleries as well as art shops and smaller independent galleries. In recent year Edinburgh hosted the exclusive Monet exhibition and there is an ever changing calendar of interests.

Entrance to manyMuseums and most of the Galleries is free - though some of the key displays carry an entrance fee.

Some of the many choices in Edinburgh

Palace of Holyrood House

Founded as a monastery in 1128, the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh is The Queen's official residence in Scotland. Situated at the end of the Royal Mile, it is closely associated with Scotland's turbulent past, including Mary, Queen of Scots, who lived here between 1561 and 1567. www.royal.gov.uk

Edinburgh Castle

Run by Historic Scotland who safeguards the nation's built heritage and promotes its understanding and enjoyment on behalf of Scottish Ministers. www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/

National Galleries of Scotland

This one web site will take you to the National Gallery of Scotland, Royal Scottish Academy, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Dean Gallery, Partner Galleries and Scottish National Photography Collection. www.nationalgalleries.org/

The Georgian House

The Georgian House is part of Robert Adam's masterpiece of urban design, Charlotte Square. It dates from 1796, when those who could afford it began to escape from the cramped, squalid conditions of Edinburgh's Old Town to settle in the fashionable New Town.  www.nts.org.uk

The City Art Centre

Since opening in 1980, the City Art Centre has mounted a huge range of exhibitions, from rare Egyptian antiquities to the most innovative contemporary art, from Michelangelo drawings to Star Trek. Call for what's on 0131 529 3993 or visit www.cac.org.uk/

Up to date listings across Edinburgh

 

National Galleries Edinburgh Queens Gallery Edinburgh Edinburgh Castle Scottish Parliament, Dynamic Earth and Holyrood House