My Edinburgh: Exploring the city with our House Hosts.

Explore some of Edinburgh's best-kept secrets with Eden Locke House Hosts, Laura and Sara. From modern art museums to traditional pubs with live music, you'll experience the city's vibrant culture firsthand. You’ll find leisurely strolls through hidden pathways that offer an escape from the urban hustle.  

Independent bookshop, stocking fine books for adults and children, in the heart of Edinburgh's Stockbridge neighbourhood. Thoughtfully curated by passionate booksellers with the newest titles in fiction and nonfiction.  

Best spot for a morning pastry: Lannan Bakery.

Beautiful and delicious baked goods, simply a place of indulgence.  

Best spot for epic scenery: Dean’s Village.

Dean’s Village is a wonderful place for a walk with dreamy surroundings.  

Best spot for a spot of culture: The Black Cat Pub.

Found on Rose St. The Black Cat’s folk music nights are a real local experience. But for a Sunday afternoon, The National Gallery of Modern Art nestled in Dean’s Village it’s a beautiful spot. They also have awesome rotating exhibitions.

Best spot for a special dinner: Skua.

A small and intimate restaurant on the lower levels of Stockbridge’s St Stephen Street. Very intimate space with a punchy small menu.

What’s your favourite things about living in Edinburgh? 

Edinburgh is such a beautiful city, steeped in centuries of fascinating history. You never tire of strolling through its streets, admiring the stunning architecture and stumbling upon charming little lanes you've never explored before. It's a wonderfully cosmopolitan city, where you can meet people from all over the world and indulge in a diverse range of cuisines. 

There are plenty of green spaces dotted around the city, like Arthur’s Seat and the Meadows, which offer a refreshing escape from urban life. And if you crave more nature, it's easily accessible just outside Edinburgh. 

But what really sets Edinburgh apart is its people. In our experience, everyone is incredibly friendly and welcoming, and they take great pride in their culture, which it’s something that rubs on you. 

What’s does your perfect day out in Edinburgh look like? 

A perfect day in Edinburgh sounds absolutely delightful, and here's how I'd craft it for myself and recommend to visiting friends. 

To kick things off, I'd start with a pastry and coffee from Lannan Bakery. There's nothing like a delicious caffeine boost to fuel the day ahead. Then, I'd take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Stockbridge, making sure to stop at every second-hand shop for some sustainable shopping. Don't forget to peek into Mr. Purves, the quirky old lamps shop—it's a real gem!

After soaking up the Stockbridge vibes, I'd suggest grabbing a gelato from Joelato before continuing the walk towards Dean’s Village, perhaps via the scenic Water of Leith pathway. The picturesque surroundings of this neighbourhood are perfect for snapping some glorious photos. 

Next up, a visit to the National Gallery of Modern Art is a must—it's free, so take your time exploring the diverse exhibitions. The coffee shop in the museum serves up amazing diverse salads for a reasonable price, making it an ideal spot for lunch. 

Feeling recharged, it's time to head to the old town. Whether by bus or on foot, a stroll down the Royal Mile is a classic Edinburgh experience. Take a break at an old pub along the way for a refreshing pint. 

As the day winds down, make your way to Calton Hill, ideally just in time for sunset. The breathtaking views of Edinburgh from above paired with a stunning sunset are not to be missed. 

By now, hunger might strike again, so why not indulge in a traditional pub meal for dinner? The Queen’s Arms on Frederick Streetis a great choice. After dinner, head over to The Black Cat on Rose Street for some live folk music and a nightcap. 

And finally, just a short walk away is Eden Locke, where you can retreat to your comfy studio for the best night's sleep, rounding off a perfect day in Edinburgh.