The time has come to start thinking about things to do in Edinburgh in the Spring. As the days get longer and the night’s get lighter, it’s time to pack away the winter knits, head outside and make the most of spring here. From farmers markets to festivals to floral walks, here are our top tips for things to do in Edinburgh this Spring…
There’s really no better time to visit our famous Royal Botanic Gardens than during spring when you can see bright yellow daffodils, pink magnolias and white snowdrops coming into bloom (and providing the perfect backdrop for those Instagram shots). Located just a mile from the city centre, it’s a great place to get back into nature and enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline.
Entry is completely free, but if you want to visit the beautiful Glasshouses – which are home to exotic plants from around the world – then it will set you back £7 a ticket. We definitely think it’s worth the money! Plus, the Garden celebrates its 350th anniversary this year so there are plenty of exciting events planned for 2020.
Want to experience Edinburgh like a local? Then you gotta head to one of the city’s outdoor markets this spring. With independent traders selling everything from unique artworks and crafts to tasty street food, you’ll have fun browsing and maybe even pick up a memento of your trip to take home with you. The most popular markets are found in Grassmarket, Stockbridge and Leith – be sure to ask our friendly team for directions, they will be happy to point you in the right direction!
The 2020 spring season sees Edinburgh Playhouse showcase some of the biggest hit shows on the stage right now, including Disney’s The Lion King, Scottish Ballet: Swan Lake and The Woman in Black. This famous theatre is no more than a 15-minute walk from both The LoFT and The CoURT, so you won’t need to travel far when you stay with us. Be sure to book your seats in advance as tickets are sure to go fast.
Looking for outdoor activities and things to do in Edinburgh this Spring ? Well, how about joining us for a bright and early for a group sunrise jog? Set your alarm, grab your trainers and join your fellow guests to get your heart rate up and blood pumping. Once you’re back at the hostel, you can fill up on breakfast, including our delicious waffles with all the toppings before heading out to start your day of sightseeing. Just pop in to our reception and add your name to the list!
Can we get a raise of hands for the science lovers out there? One of the largest science festivals in Europe is back with a bang (see what we did there?) for spring 2020. Taking place in 29 venues across the city from Saturday 4th to Sunday 19th of April, the Edinburgh International Science Festival gives attendees the chance to explore what it means to ‘live in an information-infused age’. Throw yourself into the various talks, debates, workshops and screenings, explore the world around you and come away having learnt something new. Who’s in?
You’ll still need to wrap up warm for this one, but who doesn’t love getting out into nature on a crisp spring day? Grab some friends or your fellow travellers at the hostel, pack a backpack full of tasty treats and head out on one of Edinburgh’s many trails. From our famous Arthur’s Seat to the Pentland Hills, there are plenty of options in Edinburgh for hikers of all abilities.
If you are looking for an easier walk – and a great place to catch the sunset over the city – then we recommend heading to Calton Hill. It’s easy to get to from the city centre (around a brisk 15-minute walk from either of our locations) and offers truly breathtaking views of Edinburgh’s skyline.
It might be just another month to you, but here in Scotland May means one thing – it’s Whisky Month! That’s right, while the rest of the world celebrates World Whisky Day on the 16th, us Scots keep the celebration going all month long. With events happening at pubs and bars throughout the city, we will be enjoying many a dram of our national elixir during the month and we invite you to join us.
Don’t consider yourself a whisky connoisseur? Come to one of our tasting sessions in our underground vault where you can learn about and taste local whisky with us. You might just leave with a new favourite tipple!
Got your list together of things to do in Edinburgh this Spring? Book on our site today using code ‘OHMYPOD’ and get an extra 20% off your stay PLUS a free hot drink and pastry on arrival.
