Edinburgh - outings?
 

We have a relatively short amount of time in Edinburgh (2.5 days) when we visit in August. Hence, unfortunately, taking a trip to the highlands is not really in the cards (just too much driving). Instead - I am looking for a short (less than full day) outing in the area surrounding the city. Options I am thinking about -

a) Stirling
b) St Andrews
c) Rosslyn (Chapel)

And that is it? We like history and hiking. Any comments/suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Rick

Will you spend any time in Edinburgh itself?

>>unfortunately, taking a trip to the highlands is not really in the cards (just too much driving).<<

Not necessarily -- companies like Rabbies and Timberbush do very good small group tours so you wouldn't have to drive. I'm not necessarily suggesting you do a day trip -- but if your heart is set on seeing some of the highlands, it is totally doable.

As for what to see/do outside of Edinburgh. Of the three I'd recommend St Andrews. Stirling Castle is magnificent . . . but in the scheme of things, since you will obviously be visiting Edinburgh Castle, spending nearly half of your time visiting two very similar castles probably isn't the best use of time.

Rosslyn Chapel is wonderful -- I've been there several times -- but in a way Dan Brown has ruined the place. In the 'old days' one could visit the chapel and most times you'd be the ONLY people in the place. Now there are tour buses fed cry in' out loud. The 'Prentice Pillar is a marvel -- but not IMO looking at it w/ 50+ others.

St Andrews will be totally different than anything else your see - and easily fills a day. The Old Cours, the West Sands, the Castle, the cathedral ruins, the town in general . . .

OR - just stay IN Edinburgh - there is PLENTY to fill your short time.

Thanks Janisj - St Andrews it is. Although I agree - we may find Edinburgh so entertaining (especially with all the Festival activities) we may never make it out of the city.

Sorry for the typos - but you got what I meant . . .

We liked the Falkirk Wheel, but that would consume most of a day.

You don't even have enough time for Edinburgh.

Linlithgow is great, and only about 1/2 hour on the train.

Agree with dulcius. But if you like castles, Stirling would be the easy choice.