Best Day Trips from Edinburgh
Edinburgh is perfectly situated for exploring Scotland’s southern heartlands. From ancient palaces to uninhabited islands for wildlife-watching, here are the best day trips from Edinburgh to experience this winter, all accessible by bus or train.
See the Incredible Kelpies at The Helix
The 30m-tall Kelpies, mythical horse-like creatures, were created by Scottish artist Andy Scott and stand as the largest equine sculptures in the world. Surrounding these magnificent silver beasts forged in stainless steel is the Helix, a vast area of parkland featuring 500km of connected paths, a lagoon for canoeing and kayaking, and an extension to the Forth & Clyde Canal. While in the area, take the opportunity to see the Falkirk Wheel, a feat of 21st-century engineering and the only rotating boat lift in the world.
How to Get to The Helix: 25 minutes by train from Edinburgh Waverley to Falkirk High, followed by a 40-minute bus ride to the Helix.
Soak Up the Atmosphere of Rosslyn Chapel
Located just seven miles south of Edinburgh, the peaceful village of Roslin is home to the late Gothic Rosslyn Chapel, made famous by The Da Vinci Code. Often described as “a bible in stone” due to its ornate carvings and detailed sculptures, the chapel overlooks Roslin Glen, a stunning gorge surrounded by ancient woodland and the ruins of Roslin Castle.
Roslin is also notable for being the birthplace of Dolly, the world’s first cloned sheep, created at Roslin Institute in 1997. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the local gastropub, the Original Rosslyn Inn, after a day of exploring.
How to Get to Rosslyn Chapel: From Edinburgh city center, take the Lothian 37 bus from Princes Street or North Bridge. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes.
Explore Loch Lomond and the Highlands Without the Crowds
Loch Lomond is a fantastic one-day excursion choice, perhaps providing the furthest trip into the Highlands. The villages of Balloch and Luss may get crowded in summer, but visiting in winter ensures a more peaceful experience. The quieter eastern shore, which features the West Highland Way long-distance footpath, allows visitors to appreciate the loch away from busy roads. The area is rich in forests, hiking trails, and cycling paths.
How to Get to Loch Lomond: The journey takes two hours by car. Alternatively, use public transport by first taking the train to Glasgow, then connecting to Balloch.
Indulge in History at Linlithgow Palace
One of the most sought-after day trips is Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots (1542) and her father, James V (1512). This majestic ruin overlooks Linlithgow Loch and was constructed over two centuries by Stewart kings before being destroyed by a fire in 1746. Visitors can explore the palace and grounds and enjoy splendid views from Queen Margaret’s Bower to the Forth bridges.
How to Get to Linlithgow Palace: Regular trains run from Edinburgh Waverley to Linlithgow, with a ten-minute walk required from the station.
Wander the Ramparts of Stirling
Stirling’s beautifully preserved Old Town is rich with historic buildings and charming cobbled streets. The castle is embraced by the picturesque Back Walk footpath, which leads up to the ramparts that offer breathtaking panoramic views. The iconic Wallace Monument, a stunning Victorian Gothic structure, honors the legendary freedom fighter.
Additionally, nearby Bannockburn marks the site of Robert the Bruce’s key victory over the English in 1314, and a Heritage Centre enhances understanding of this historic battle. Other noteworthy sites include the Old Town Jail, allowing visitors to delve deeper into Stirling’s history.
How to Get to Stirling: Regular trains leave Edinburgh Waverley and take approximately 40 minutes.
Go Wildlife Spotting on Inchcolm Island
Inchcolm Island, often referred to as “the Iona of the east,” is just six miles from Edinburgh. Renowned for its exquisite wildlife, including seals and puffins, it features a beautifully preserved 12th-century abbey regarded as the finest collection of monastic buildings in Scotland, alongside fascinating wartime fortifications.
How to Get to Inchcolm: Take the Maid of the Forth ferry, which runs three-hour boat trips to Inchcolm, including 1.5 hours on the island. Departures are daily from Hawes Pier in South Queensferry. To reach Hawes Pier, catch the frequent train from Edinburgh Waverley to Dalmeny station (South Queensferry), with a journey time of 15 minutes.
Experience Glasgow for a Different City Vibe
A visit to Glasgow is essential when in Edinburgh. This vibrant city is filled with incredible art, music, shopping, and hospitality. Marvel at its grand Victorian architecture, shop along Buchanan Street, and enjoy the dining scene in hip Finnieston. Don’t miss visiting some of Scotland’s best museums, including the stunning Kelvingrove Art Gallery and the innovative Transport Museum, designed by Zaha Hadid. If time permits, consider staying overnight to experience Glasgow’s renowned nightlife and music scene.
How to Get to Glasgow from Edinburgh: Trains run from Edinburgh Waverley to Glasgow Queen Street every 15 minutes, taking about 50 minutes.
Walk, Cycle or Even Swim Along the East Lothian Coast
East Lothian, bordering Edinburgh to the east, boasts 40 miles of beautiful coastline, rolling countryside, and the Lammermuir Hills. Walking or cycling along the John Muir Way, starting from Dunbar, offers incredible scenery and history. Beach lovers can visit stunning sandy beaches like Yellowcraig, renowned for its views of Fidra island, alongside Gullane Bents and Tyninghame, both ideal for wild camping. The seaside town of North Berwick is a must-see, featuring spectacular views of Bass Rock, a local culinary scene, and fresh seafood at the Lobster Shack.
How to Get to East Lothian: Regular trains from Edinburgh Waverley to North Berwick take around 33 minutes, or hire a car and enjoy a scenic drive through charming villages and beaches.
Discover the Incredible Jupiter Artland
An outstanding sculpture park and art gallery located at the 17th-century Bonnington House estate, Jupiter Artland was a finalist for Museum of the Year in 2016. This venue showcases international artists like Charles Jencks and Anish Kapoor. While it may be closed in winter, it’s worth planning your visit to experience its incredible art when it reopens in the spring.
How to Get to Jupiter Artland: Catch the X27 bus, which takes approximately 35 minutes. Get off at Coxydene/Jupiter Artland bus stop.
This article was first published on August 22, 2017, and updated on December 11, 2021.
