Why do I long to return to Edinburgh?

Edinburgh became a must-see destination for me in 2011 after watching "One Day." Before going, I thought it would be an abstract pursuit of the film's theme of "cherishing first encounters."

But in reality, what truly captivated me about this city was its ability to retain a touch of tenderness and romance despite its weathered history.

Edinburgh was my first stop in Scotland. I took an overnight train from London and woke up in Edinburgh the next morning.

Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, located at either end of the Royal Mile, are well worth visiting. The former is a military fortress, a testament to Edinburgh's history. The latter is the Queen's holiday palace, boasting a luxurious interior.

St. Giles' Cathedral on the Royal Mile is also a classic, notable for its crown-shaped spire, modeled after the Scottish crown, and the stained-glass windows within.

Victoria Street awakens childhood fairy tale dreams, drawing countless Harry Potter fans to The Elephant House, seeking traces of J.K. Rowling. However, I was drawn to the street's vintage charm, which evoked a sense of stepping back in time, into a movie scene.

After exploring Edinburgh, I realized my fondness for the city wasn't rooted in the regrets portrayed in "One Day," but rather in its enduring romanticism that resonated deeply within me.

☀️Practical Tips☀️
1️⃣ Standard overnight train tickets cost between GBP 16–30 and should be booked in advance. However, if the train isn't crowded, you can stretch out across three empty seats. I did just that on my trip to the UK.
2️⃣ The overnight train journey takes about 4.5 hrs.
3️⃣ It's best to stay in Edinburgh's Old Town. My accommodation, a B&B, was in the Old Town and cost around GBP 40–50 per night.

Post by Aiden Clark$11 | Mar 8, 2025