It’s the final weekend of the summer holidays and what better way to enjoy it than to explore what’s on your doorstep in Edinburgh and the Lothians?
We all know of the famous historic landmarks that thousands of residents and tourists flock to each year, but within our network are a few hidden gems that we think you should see this summer.
1. Glenkinchie Distillery
One for the adults… Looking for a journey taking you back through the ages of historic whisky?
Glenkinchie Distillery is a Victorian distillery which is proud to send whiskies around the world from what they are proud to say is ‘the Lowland Home of Johnnie Walker.’
As well as the wonderful whisky, there are stunning orchard gardens boasting sweet-scented wildflowers which truly encapsulates the Pencaitland farmland in East Lothian. Allow us to be the designated driver by hopping aboard our Eve Coaches Service 123.
2. Dean Village
Hidden away just a short walk from Princes Street is the exquisite surroundings of Dean Village.
Historically a water milling village, there are remnants of its industrious past all over the area. From the picturesque backdrop on Dean Bridge, St Bernard’s Well is just a leisurely stroll away. The iconic Well Court, built in the 1880s, housed the water mill workers who kept the area ticking.
Jump on one of the Lothian Services above, or our Lothian Country and East Coast Buses alternatives, and alight at ‘Dean Bridge’.
3. Rosslyn Chapel
Located in the village of Roslin in Midlothian lies one of the most historic places of worship in the world.
Made famous by Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code, Rosslyn Chapel has become the subject of folklore and mystical speculation that has rumbled on for over two decades. Why not discover the magnificent surroundings for yourself and make your own mind up? The 15th century building features magnificent architecture and with a major ‘once in a generation’ restoration project recently completed, now is the perfect time to see the wonders of Rosslyn Chapel for yourself.
Lothian’s Service 37 or East Coast Buses Service 140 will take you within a short walking distance of this historical marvel.
4. Jupiter Artland
Jupiter Artland is home to some of the finest contemporary sculptures and greenspace that Scotland has to offer.
Hidden away in West Lothian, Jupiter Artland was founded in 2009 and boasts over 100 acres of meadow, woodland and indoor gallery spaces. There are over 30 permanent and unique site-specific sculptures from a host of artists who have carefully cultivated the beautiful landscape to offer breath-taking views in an idyllic setting.
Lothian Country Services X27 and X40 will take you to the gates of this hidden gem that has to be explored to be believed.
5. Cramond Beach
Everyone loves a day out at the beach! Cramond Beach is the perfect location for a family day out, offering a relaxing walk along Edinburgh’s coastline where you can look across the Firth of Forth onto the Kingdom of Fife. The jewel in the crown of what was once an old, vibrant fishing village, Cramond Beach is hugely popular with visitors to the city. Lothian’s Service 47 serves Cramond and the stop ‘Cramond Glebe Road’ is just a short walk away from the sandy shores.