Three stunning locations to escape bustling Edinburgh Fringe and Oasis crowds
Edinburgh is set to become the centre of the arts world once again, as festival season begins and the city welcomes millions of visitors. With the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the International Festival in full swing throughout August, the capital will be bursting with performers, tourists and energy.
Adding to the buzz, three major Oasis gigs are also scheduled over the coming week or so, ensuring the city will be packed throughout the month. While the festivals bring a vibrant and unforgettable atmosphere, the constant crowds can feel overwhelming at times.
Fortunately, the city is full of hidden corners where calm can still be found. For those looking to take a break from the hustle of the Royal Mile and the crowded venues, there are peaceful retreats tucked just beyond the city centre, Scottish Daily Express reports..
Here are three of the best escapes to explore during Edinburgh's busiest season.
Dean Village
Just a short walk from Princes Street lies one of Edinburgh's most picturesque and peaceful areas. Dean Village, described by VisitScotland as 'one of Edinburgh's best kept secrets', sits along the Water of Leith.
Once a separate village centred around grain milling, Dean Village was home to 11 mills, the remnants of which are still visible. It feels far removed from the bustle of the city, despite being less than a mile away.
Though now part of Edinburgh, the area retains its old-world charm and is known for its distinctive architecture. At the heart of the village is Well Court, a striking building constructed in the 1880s to house mill workers.
Above it all is Dean Bridge, a 30-metre-high structure built by famed engineer Thomas Telford in 1831 to link the growing city from east to west. With leafy paths, riverside walks and plenty of photo opportunities, Dean Village is a tranquil escape just minutes from the festival crowds.
Duddingston and Dr Neil's Garden
Hidden behind Holyrood Park, the historic village of Duddingston is another peaceful retreat that few tourists ever find.
Dating back to the 12th century, the village boasts a loch, nature reserve and a blend of traditional cottages, Georgian villas, and one of the oldest churches in Scotland; Duddingston Kirk.
One of the highlights of the area is Dr Neil's Garden, a quiet sanctuary tucked at the foot of Arthur's Seat.
Free to enter from 10am until dusk, the garden offers colourful plantings of alpines, primulas, rhododendrons and azaleas, all laid out with care in a space ideal for relaxation and reflection. With Arthur's Seat rising behind it, this spot offers both seclusion and beauty.
The nearby Sheep Heid Inn is thought to be one of the oldest pubs in the country, and Mary, Queen of Scots is said to have once been a guest.
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Craigmillar Castle
While Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline and draws in huge crowds, few visitors venture just four miles southeast to explore its lesser-known counterpart. Craigmillar Castle, steeped in royal history, offers a quieter but equally dramatic experience.
This 15th-century fortress is where Mary, Queen of Scots, took refuge after the murder of her secretary, David Rizzio. It is also linked to the alleged plot to kill her husband, Lord Darnley.
The grounds include a unique fishpond shaped like the letter P, and the tower house provides some of the best views of Edinburgh Castle itself.
Entry to Craigmillar Castle is £7.50 if booked in advance or £8.50 on the day, a bargain compared to central city prices, and a chance to step into history away from the crowds.
See the Historic Environment Scotland website for more information.
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