And We'll Never Be (Scottish) Royals - 05.23.25

Our first full day in Edinburgh consisted of reliving history through a self-guided tour of Edinburgh Castle, sightseeing Scott Monument, and exploring the city’s nightlife. 

As any good morning should start, we began with breakfast. We ate at Castlegate Cafe which was near our hotel in Grassmarket. This tiny cafe was a hidden gem with delicious food. I had a Glass of Mango Juice for $3.95* and Poached Eggs Avocado (two poached eggs, crushed avocado, smoked salmon, and Hollandaise sauce) for $13.95*. My mom had the British Breakfast (scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, hash browns, baked beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, and golden toast with butter) for $13.95* with tea for $3.60*. My sister had Avocado on Toast (two eggs, crushed avocado, on golden sourdough toast, served with tomatoes) for $11.95* with tea for $3.60*. Our breakfast was important as this would fuel our next several hours reliving the tale of Edinburgh Castle.

Edinburgh Castle is an ancient stronghold dating back to the prehistorics. Edinburgh Castle has played a prominent role in Scottish history, and has served variously as a royal residence, an arsenal, a treasury, a national archive, a mint, a prison, a military fortress, and the home of the Honours of Scotland – the Scottish regalia. As one of the most important strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, the castle was involved in many historical conflicts from the Wars of Scottish Independence in the 14th century to the Jacobite rising of 1745. In its 1,100-year history, there have been 26 identified sieges making it the most besieged place in Great Britain and one of the most attacked in the world. The highlights of the Castle include: Fight for the Castle; The Great Hall; The Royal Palace; Honours of Scotland; St Margaret’s Chapel (regarded as the oldest building in Edinburgh); Mons Meg; The Western Defenses; One o’Clock Gun; Half Moon Battery; Prisons of War; The Queen’s Embroideries; Scottish National War Memorial; National War Museum; and The Royal Scots & Royal Regiment of Scotland Museum. 

My mom, sister, and I spent hours at the castle exploring and learning all about its history. We stayed longer than we expected to but the hours were well spent. My mom purchased an audio guide which provided us with additional knowledge of different areas throughout the castle. I found it to be worthwhile. I highly recommend checking out the castle for yourself if you get the privilege to visit Edinburgh. You will want to purchase your ticket in advance as they are based on time slots and frequently sell out. 

All of that learning made us ready for our next meal which we had at Biddy Mulligans. We sat outside Biddy’s in their sanctioned spot in the Grassmarket square and enjoyed our 360-degree view that was perfect for people watching. During our meal a lady set up karaoke in the square which got increasingly popular and equally entertaining as we continued eating. I had Smoked Salmon Potato Salad (grain mustard mayo, green beans, capers, rocket) for $16.00* with a Hugo Spritz (St Germain Elderflower, soda, prosecco, mint). My mom had Biddy’s Famous Irish Stew (slow cooked lamb, colcannon mash, spring greens, Irish stout, and cheddar dumpling) for $19.00*. My sister had Biddy’s Classic Chicken Spice Bag (salt and chili chicken, salt and chili chips, sliced peppers and onions lashed with Irish curry sauce) for $12.50*. We enjoyed our meals and the unexpected entertainment that captured the attention of everyone.

We continued our day’s adventure by walking to Scott Monument. This is a stunning, spirelike Victorian memorial in honor of the writer Sir Walter Scott. The monument is climbable with 287 steps to the top. However, there is an admissions fee to tour the inside of the monument. We visited after the monument had closed for the day and took pictures of the impressive outside structure. 

To end our busy day, my sister and I visited two nightlife hotspots: The Three Sisters and Dropkick Murphys. The Three Sisters is a world-renowned bar, courtyard, events space, and live entertainment venue housed in a former historic brewery site famed for its non-stop party atmosphere. The pub was lively with music and televised live sports. My sister and I each ordered and enjoyed a Jubel Peach Lager (4%, gluten free, vegan, England). We sat on the table swings, danced, and explored the cool venue. Dropkick Murphys is an Irish tavern with football (soccer) decor offering sports on TV and live music every night. This was another fun venue that we enjoyed. Edinburgh’s nightlife passed my vibe check and I think that the city makes for a proper night out. 

*All dollar amounts are in pound sterling.