Our Favourite Edinburgh "Hidden Gems"

Many of you are probably deep into planning mode ahead of the return of Edinburgh's festival season, and with the EIFF22 programme dropping next week, you're no doubt excited about picking the films you want to see!

Obviously we want you all to come and see as many great movies as possible, but we do understand that you can't sit in a dark room all day long! So our marketing team have come up with some alternative suggestions for things you can do around the city between screenings. We know you all know about the Castle and the Royal Mile, so consider these our "hidden gems"...

Colinton Station & Tunnel

Everyone knows Edinburgh is one of the World's most "Instagrammable" cities, and you're sure to capture some great content by taking a trip to this old Victorian railway tunnel. You won't be able to do any trainspotting, but the tunnel's walls are now adorned with a stunning mural, which you could spend hours poring over!

Morningside's Wild West

Head down to the neighbourhood of Morningside and get your best John Wayne or Clint Eastwood impression on, at this surprising side street. It might feel like you're on a film set, but this bizarre little nook was actually built for a furniture shop's advertising gimmick in the mid-90s, and no one ever had the heart to change it!

Dean Village & Water of Leith Walkway

Just a few minutes walk from Princes Street, but it certainly won't feel like you're in the middle of a bustling city! The picturesque and quaint Dean Village historically played host to the city's water mills, but is now a quiet residential area. The Water of Leith runs right through the middle of it, and is flanked by a walkway which stretches the length of Edinburgh and beyond, interspersing some of the city's best attractions (including The Shore, The Scottish Gallery of Modern Art, and Murrayfield Stadium) with scenic natural sights.

Galerie Mirages

Galerie Mirages, tucked away down a little lane in the neighbourhood of Stockbridge, is a true treasure trove of a shop. Opened in 1987 as a place where some of the world's most spectacular jewellery could be sold in Scotland, the shop is now home to a range of beautifully crafted, hand-picked items.

Desi Pakwan

Sample delicious Indian food at Desi Pakwan, at the bottom of Leith Walk. The trip there might be a bit challenging due to the ongoing tram works stretching the length of the street, but you'll certainly feel it was worth it once you're tucking into some of their tasty tandoori and biryani!

Hoot the Redeemer

As you pass through busy Hanover Street on your way into Edinburgh's iconic New Town, you'll pass the blink-or-you'll-miss-it entrance to Hoot the Redeemer, an eclectic tarot-themed basement bar, complete with a boozy ice cream parlour and retro arcade games. After a couple of cocktails, you'll very possibly believe you're really at a 1950's fun fair!

Pieute

If you want to look sharp while doing your bit for the environment, head to Pieute, an independent label where everything is made sustainably. Their clothing sports some very cool designs. Not only are they fashionable, but they're well worth supporting too, as they give away items to people in need on a monthly basis. You'll find them at Candlemaker Row, right next to Greyfriars Kirkyard, so pop along after you've visited Voldemort's grave!

Dr. Neil's Garden

The charming village of Duddingston, located on the southernmost slopes of popular hiking spot, Arthur's Seat, is home to this secluded secret garden. Situated on the banks of Duddingston Loch, this tranquil space is the perfect place for some contemplation if you've overdone at at the nearby Sheeps Heid Inn, possibly Scotland's oldest pub!