Yes, travel resumed quite prominently in 2022 but that doesn’t mean we have to say goodbye to the humble staycation.
In fact, with more people having become pet owners and there being a larger focus on sustainable travel, local travel has become more popular and Scotland is top of many people’s bucket lists.
With beautiful scenery, many people head to the Highlands, but don’t overlook the power of a city break. If you are journeying to Edinburgh or Glasgow, we’ve got some tips for you to take on board.
Where to eat, drink and stay in Scotland
Edinburgh
Scotland’s capital has a picturesque feel to it, with a combination of a medieval old town and buzzing modern centre. When you’re done visiting the castle and climbing to Arthur’s Seat, you might need some feeding and watering – and we’ve got you covered.
Where to eat and drink in Edinburgh
Arguably, the best restaurant in Scotland, Ondine definitely offers something special to diners visiting the capital. This seafood restaurant serves up all fresh produce straight from the North Sea – including sizeable oysters, lobster, crab and much more. As we head into the colder weather, tuck into lobster thermidor and shellfish soup.
The Hanging Bat is a great watering hole off the beaten path if you’re a craft beer lover. The electic beer list includes some from the bar’s own brewing area with ales that are exclusive to The Hanging Bat. In addition, there is a selection of beers from across the world, as well as various wines, spirits and cocktails.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Rocco Forte Hotels is celebrating its 25th anniversary – so what better time to book a stay at The Balmoral? With arguably the best address in the city, a regal atmosphere is sensed as soon as you walk through the doors. While not everyone can stay behind the purple door of the J.K. Rowling suite (where the writer famously penned many parts of the Harry Potter books), the other rooms are perfectly comfortable – featuring gorgeous city views and aesthetically-pleasing marble bathrooms.
Definitely indulge in a Full Scottish breakfast the next morning at Brasserie Prince – before you set about your tourist travels around the city. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea in Palm Court or dine at Number One, the hotel’s 4 AA Rosette restaurant. With a menu that offers a contempory take on Scottish cuisine, all dishes use seasonal ingredients. Loch Duart salmon, Goosnarch duck and hand-dived scallops are just a few items from its seven-course tasting menu. With a cultured mind and a full stomach, a trip to The Balmoral Spa should not be overlooked, as guests can immerse themselves in this urban oasis, with relaxing treatments.
Glasgow
Although Glasgow is typically less of a tourist hot spot than Edinburgh, the city should not be overlooked. With gorgeous architecture in the cloisters of the university, plus its overspill of culture via the Scottish Opera, Ballet and National Theatre. It’s also a musical hub.
Where to eat and drink in Glasgow
They say cracking good food and boy do they mean it. Choose from classic crab cakes to a whole one and then order seared scallops and monkfish tail scampi as well. Come hungry as you’ll want to order it all – and neither your tummy or your tastebuds will be disappointed.
Aptly named, Hide and Seek is tucked away at the old home of a popular seafood spot. Now serving carefully-crafted cocktails in an elegant bar, there are both the timeless classics and more innovative creations to satisfy the cravings of those who are in search of a tipple.
Where to stay in Glasgow
Overlooking private gardens and the city centre just beyond, this landmark hotel has stunning Georgian architeture which instantly impresses – before your eyes widen at the newly-renovated rooms and suites, all spacious and complete with bath tubs to lounge in after a day of touristing Scotland’s vibrant city.
A five-star hotel emphasises luxury, boasting its AA accreditation. Sadly the spa is closing from 10 November for renovations but THAW, the Winter Spa Garden (the Kimpton’s new outdoor pop-up) is the epitome of tranquility, allowing guests to take a dip in the hot tub before fully immersing yourself in a day of relaxation in the steam room and sauna.
Isag is the hotel’s restaurant, serving up traditional Scottish dishes such as cullen skink, venison haunch and Shetland cod. Other notable plates include trout pastrami, crab and prawn squid ink ravioli and plaice with brown shrimp butter sauce.
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