Unusual Activities to Engage in Edinburgh by the Year 2025

Edinburgh, the vibrant capital of Scotland, is not just about ancient castles and bustling Royal Mile. This city offers a plethora of unique and off-the-beaten-path attractions that cater to every taste and curiosity.

Nestled in the old kennels of the former Summerhall Veterinary School, Pickering's Gin Distillery stands as one of the best gin distilleries in Scotland. Here, you can indulge in gin tastings and immerse yourself in the art of gin-making.

For music enthusiasts, the lesser-known Jazz and Blues Festival, dates for which are 11th-20th July 2025, offers a variety of unique venues across Edinburgh. This annual event showcases both new and celebrated artists.

The Maison de Moggy, Scotland's first cat cafe, is a purr-fect spot for cat lovers. Filled with climbing towers, scratch posts, and cosy beds for cats, it provides a relaxing environment for both felines and visitors.

Venture into the National Portrait Gallery, a Neo-Gothic building that transports you into a magical world. This cultural hub offers insight into Scottish history and art, with cafes to relax in. Nearby, Jupiter Artland, an outdoor sculpture park, provides a unique immersive experience blending art and nature.

Explore the picturesque Dean Village, reminiscent of Amsterdam, or take a stroll through the hidden paradise of Dunbar's Close Garden. For a panoramic city view, visit Camera Obscura, the oldest purpose-built attraction in Edinburgh, featuring a Victorian-era periscope camera and a World of Illusions maze.

Edinburgh's quirky side also includes the Wee Pub at Biddy Mulligans, the smallest pub in Scotland, with room for about 20 people at a squeeze. For a fresh culinary experience, dine at the Secret Herb Garden Cafe Bistro, surrounded by vineyards, plants, and herbs.

If you're a history buff, Rosslyn Chapel, less than an hour outside of Edinburgh, offers informational talks about its history and mysteries, as seen in "The Da Vinci Code". For a touch of the supernatural, explore the Edinburgh Vaults, a subterranean city with ghost tours.

For Harry Potter fans, Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historical graveyard, is famous for its connections to the beloved series. The city also offers Harry Potter walking tours.

The Royal Military Tattoo, held nightly in the grounds of Edinburgh Castle throughout most of August, is a spectacle featuring marching bands, military musicians, and dancers from around the world.

In October, Edinburgh hosts the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, a celebration of traditional and contemporary storytelling. For a taste of Scotland's culinary heritage, join a food tour offered by Eat Walk Edinburgh.

Lastly, don't miss the Chihuahua Cafe, a unique cafe in Edinburgh's New Town, home to a small pack of adorable chihuahuas. For a sweet treat, visit the Chocolatarium for a 90-minute chocolate tour and the chance to make your own chocolate.

With a map of Edinburgh's most fun and unusual attractions in hand, you're ready to explore the city's lesser-known gems. The New Town Walking Tour by City Explorer reveals Edinburgh's best-kept secrets, while Cocktail Geeks offer themed bars and drinks experiences, with rotating themes such as Game of Thrones or Star Wars.

For a quiet retreat, visit Dr Neil's Garden, a secluded and tranquil spot, or the Surgeons' Hall Museums, a series of museums owned by The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

Lastly, Craigmillar Castle, located 3 miles from the city centre, was known as a safe place for plotting and was the site of the 'Craigmillar Bond', a plan to dispose of Mary Queen of Scots' husband. Morningside houses a Wild West ghost town, adding another layer of mystery to this historic city.

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a music lover, Edinburgh has something for everyone. So, come and discover the quirky side of this enchanting city!

The Pickering's Gin Distillery, located in Edinburgh, offers gin tastings and a glimpse into the art of gin-making, making it a unique destination for lovers of travel, entertainment, and food-and-drink.
If you're a music enthusiast, you won't want to miss the Jazz and Blues Festival in Edinburgh, held annually in July, showcasing new and celebrated artists, catering to the lifestyle preferences of music lovers.
Maison de Moggy, Scotland's first cat cafe, is a purr-fect spot for cat lovers visiting Edinburgh, providing a relaxing environment for both felines and visitors, thus making it part of the travel and home-and-garden experience.
For those interested in art and culture, the National Portrait Gallery and Jupiter Artland, an outdoor sculpture park, offer unique immersive experiences blending art and nature, appealing to those with a taste for culture and lifestyle.
Edinburgh's hidden paradises like Dean Village and Dunbar's Close Garden, as well as Camera Obscura with a World of Illusions maze, provide a touch of adventure for those who seek off-the-beaten-path attractions.
For history enthusiasts, Rosslyn Chapel and Greyfriars Kirkyard offer insights into Scottish history and the world of Harry Potter, making them must-visit destinations for travelers interested in history and lifestyle.
For a taste of Scotland's culinary heritage and a fresh culinary experience, Eat Walk Edinburgh offers food tours, or you can dine at the Secret Herb Garden Cafe Bistro, surrounded by vineyards, plants, and herbs, catering to foodies and travelers alike.