I visited beautiful and underrated seaside town just 20 minutes from Edinburgh
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Edinburgh holds a special place in my heart, but there's no denying that the city can become rather bustling and loud during the summer months due to the International Festival. The array of performers, shows, and comedians are certainly entertaining, but if you're seeking a respite from the hubbub, why not venture to its stunning coastline?
Many visitors to Edinburgh remain oblivious to the fact that just beyond the city limits lies Portobello, a delightful, historic seaside town that is actually part of the city itself. I have a particular fondness for Portobello with its beach and unique independent shops, making it an ideal recommendation for those looking for a tranquil retreat from the frenetic city centre.
Portobello beach is renowned for its incredibly soft white sand, creating the perfect setting for a picnic or simply unwinding with a good book by the sea. My favourite thing about Portobello beach is its serene atmosphere during weekdays - but there's always some event taking place.
(Image: Katherine McPhillips)
(Image: Katherine McPhillips)
From treasure hunts to photography sessions, yoga classes or even beach clean-ups, the community is highly active, fostering a warm, close-knit vibe, reports the Express. The promenade is also adorned with striking, gothic-style Victorian houses, and there's an abundance of charming little cafés and restaurants to explore.
My top pick for dining at the beach has to be The Boathouse. Serving up the most delicious pizzas I've ever tasted, it's situated at the very end of the promenade, ensuring a peaceful dining experience.
However, Portobello is brimming with fantastic dining options, making it worth exploring if you're after a quality dinner spot without the city centre price tag. My absolute favourite pastime is heading to Greek Artisan Pastries for lunch, a charming blue-and-white bakery that's easily spotted on the main street.
(Image: Katherine McPhillips)
(Image: Katherine McPhillips)
I'm particularly fond of their savoury pies, which are always served warm and fresh. With such an extensive selection, I'm constantly spoilt for choice.
One of the most welcoming coffee shops I've ever visited is Tanifiki, renowned for its African coffee blends. The owner is delightful, but the entire team is consistently friendly and incredibly helpful every time I pop in.
Tanifiki boasts a wide array of sweet baked goods, alongside its luxurious coffee, making it impossible for me to resist stepping inside. On my last visit, I indulged in a sea salt brownie, but I'm also a big fan of their scones and can't recommend them enough.
(Image: Katherine McPhillips)
(Image: Katherine McPhillips)
If you're in search of a drinking spot, make your way to the Foresters, which features a cosy beer garden and scrumptious pub grub. It serves up the best fish and chips and sticky toffee pudding I've ever tasted, and I find myself returning every few months just to relive the experience.
Edinburgh is famed for its vast array of bookshops, but if you're a bibliophile, then a visit to The Portobello Bookshop is a must. This independent bookstore offers some of the best picks hand-selected by staff members, and I always manage to discover something unique to read whenever I drop by. They also boast a fantastic range of independent books and magazines, sure to pique your interest in subjects you'd never considered before.
Portobello is an extraordinary location brimming with independent shops worth exploring, and I've barely begun to uncover the treasures of this under-appreciated coastal town. Portobello is just a 20-minute drive from Edinburgh city centre, or approximately 35 minutes on the bus journey.
While you can walk there - it'll take you about an hour - I'd strongly recommend opting for public transport or a taxi if you're unfamiliar with the area.
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