Newington is a residential area that lies south of downtown Edinburgh, a convenient base for your stay in the city. Major attractions such as Arthur's Seat, the Meadows and Edinburgh old town are only a few minutes bus or car ride away. Climb an extinct volcano, unwind in one of the city's most popular parks and sample the wares of a local distillery.
Breathe in the fresh air and stretch your legs at the Meadows, a large park of open grassland and tree-lined walks. Take advantage of its many facilities including children's play areas, tennis courts, barbecue areas and picnic tables.
About 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) to the east of the Meadows is Holyrood Park, home to a human-made loch with geese, ducks and swans, the remains of Iron Age forts and a medieval chapel. This also where you’ll find Arthur's Seat, the grass-covered hill that’s the highest point of an extinct volcano that last erupted more than 300 million years ago. Walk up to the summit for some of the most dramatic views of the city.
When you come back down, relax with a drink while on a guided tour of Pickering's Gin Distillery. Then head over to the old town, which is a short walk away. Stroll along the Royal Mile, the main street which runs between Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle. Visit the historic quarter's noteworthy buildings, including the 12th-century St. Giles' Cathedral and the National Museum of Scotland. Browse the independent stores on Victoria Street.
Stay in the old town for dinner or make the short bus or car journey back to Newington, which has a collection of pubs, bars and casual and fine dining restaurants.
Finish the day by watching a concert at the Queen's Hall or a film or musical performance at Summerhall, a multi-arts venue.
Located approximately 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) south of the city center, Newington is close to many of the Scottish capital ’s main attractions but far enough away for those looking for a quiet Edinburgh base.
