Greater Edinburgh, scotland
Attractions Guide

Just outside of Edinburgh are several amazing attractions, including the Rosslyn Chapel from the Da Vinci Code, several medieval castles, and stunning modern art projects such as the Kelpies Helix Project. All of these attractions can be reached from Edinburgh quite easily via public transportation.

The most popular attraction around Edinburgh (and the closest) is the Rosslyn Chapel, a 15th century gothic church famous due to its use as a setting in The Da Vinci Code and alleged ties to the Knights Templar.

The next closest attraction is the Jupiter Artland open-air sculpture park to the west. Here you can walk amongst many large contemporary sculptures and art installations set amongst the woods which also includes some strange but amazing artificial landscapes, offering many excellent photo opportunities.

Further west from Edinburgh is the partially ruined medieval Linlithgow Palace, a massive magnificent structure set amongst a scenic landscape. Nearby you can also stop by the 15th century stone Blackness Castle, an impressive waterfront medieval fortress.

Continuing west from Edinburgh is the town of Falkirk, where you can visit the Callendar House, a French chateau-like mansion containing posh interiors and some medieval rooms.

Just outside of town you should stop to view the unique Kelpies Helix Project monument, which is two 100 foot (30 m) tall horse head sculptures made of steel.

To the northwest of Falkirk is the city of Stirling, located about halfway between Glasgow and Edinburgh a bit to the north. The city is famous for the massive medieval Stirling Castle, one of the most important in Scotland. This fortress castle contains lavish royal interiors and features amazing views over the surrounding area.

Also in town is the National Wallace Monument, a tall castle-like tower atop a hill. This brick structure displays impressive gothic architecture and can be seen from far away, towering over the town.

To the east of Edinburgh on the shores of the North Sea you'll find the ruins of the Tantallon Castle, set amongst the breathtaking coastline featuring all types of natural features including green cliffs and a massive rock island just behind the castle.