Historic Sites in East Whitburn

"The best way to learn is practice, so to understand how the decisions for the country are taken, head over to the Scottish parliament for a tour. Not only the history but the architecture of the building will impress you. This modern building, recipient of major architectural awards, with ample natural light through the glass panels, will surely awe you."

"Enric Miralles’ Post-Modern Scottish Parliament complex was officially opened in 2004. Designed to mirror the surrounding landscape of crags and hills, the building is strikingly difficult from the traditional architecture of the Old Town it sits beside. The building, adorned with abstract, geometric shapes, sits under the gaze of Arthur’s Seat."

"If you fancy a tour of how democracy works in Scotland, book yourself a tour of the Parliament. In a building known to turns heads with its modern architecture. The tours are informative and allow visitors a great glimpse into understanding politics and culture in Scotland, and the United Kingdom, in general."

"Located north-west of the city centre in the Crewe Toll district, the Village Edinburgh offers all the modern conveniences visitors could expect. With an indoor pool, spa, and wellness centre, guests can enjoy some me-time: a relaxing swim, invigorating workout, or calming treatment session. Each bedroom is stylishly decorated, with a modern bathroom, air conditioning, flat-screen television, and free WiFi."

"Dean Village is a brief stroll past the city centre yet it feels far removed from the bustle. The village offers up an enchanting and picturesque scene of colourful buildings resembling that of a fairytale. It truly is a place that time has forgotten."

"Address: 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SRVisitor guide:John Knox House. John Knox’s house in the middle of The Royal Mile is a historic building that was reputedly lived in by the Protestant reformer in the 16th-century. Although Knox only lived in the house for a short time it’s his association with the building that prevented it from being demolished in 1840 when many other derelict buildings were being torn down."

"John Knox House is a fascinating mediaeval building constructed in 1470. It is named after the famous Protestant reformer John Knox, although he actually only lived there for a short period in his life. The house was also home to James Mosman, an ardent supporter of Mary Queen of Scots who was one of the "Queen's Men" who seized Edinburgh Castle in a failed attempt to have her reinstated."

"The John Knox House dates back to 1470 and it is associated with the Scottish Reformation. Even though the name-giver John Knox only lived in the house for a brief period in the 16th century, his association with the house stuck throughout the…"

"The Grassmarket is a bustling part of Edinburgh, which has great nightlife and places to eat, as well as an intriguing past. Situated in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle to the south, it is named, as it was the market where all animals that ate grass –as well as the grasses to feed them – were sold. The bustling square hosts a food and craft market on Sundays and has a plethora of great old character-filled pubs to visit and great restaurants to sample Scottish or international food."

"Address: Old Town, Edinburgh, EH1 2HSWebsite: The Grassmarket. The Grassmarket in Edinburgh is a bustling collection of pubs and restaurants which sit around a large open square at the southern edge of Edinburgh Castle. Because the district is so centrally located within the city you can easily find it by either walking west from the Cowgate or walking south from the Castle Esplanade."

"This area of town is often bustling with people so there's always a buzz about this weekly market. It's widely regarded as a top place to be for those looking to get their hands on some stunning jewellery, crafts and artwork. Paella and hot Latin foods are regularly served up by the stall holders along with treats like cupcakes and macarons."

"All the recommendations so far have been along the Royal Mile, the lovely stretch of interconnecting streets which run from Edinburgh Castle down to Holyrood Palace. It’s not exactly a mile long, but it’s near enough, and is filled with a variety of attractions, from the above mentioned, through to souvenir shops, restaurants and pubs."

"The Royal Mile ends at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This palace is the official residence in Scotland of Queen Elizabeth. She resides here about one week every year. When the Queen is not here, the Palace is open for visit."

"Dean Cemetery was inaugurated in 1846 and belongs to a beautiful hamlet located very near the city centre called Dean Village. It is one of the most remarkable cemeteries in Edinburgh and if it weren’t for the gravestones it could pass as a tranquil park full of trees."

"Edinburgh's 18th-century City Chambers were built over the sealed-off remains of Mary King's Close, and the lower levels of this medieval Old Town alley have survived almost unchanged amid the foundations for 250 years. Now open to the public, this spooky, subterranean labyrinth gives a fascinating insight into the everyday life of 17th-century Edinburgh. Costumed characters lead tours through a 16th-century town house and the plague-stricken home of a 17th-century gravedigger. Advance booking recommended."

"Head to one of my favorite Edinburgh points of interest, the Real Mary King’s Close. Truly one of the most amazing and historically accurate tours I have ever been."

"The plans to construct an iconic city hall in Edinburgh were sparked in 1896 by Andrew Usher, renowned whisky distiller, who promised to fund the project. In 1914, Usher Hall was built by architects Stockdale Harrison and Howard H Thomson, a magnificent and classical beaux-arts-style concert hall which stood in defiance against the Victorian Gothic architecture so commonly found within the city of Edinburgh. Situated on Lothian Road in the west of the capital, Usher Hall is instantly recognizable with its curved walls, geometric precision and intriguing exterior design, featuring famous Scots such as Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns."

"Usher Hall is Edinburgh’s premier concert venue and a must-visit for fans of entertainment and culture. The hall was built in 1914 and features beautiful architecture, including a curved exterior decorated with panels of famous figures such as Sir Walter Scott and Mozart. The hall has historically been used for a variety of events, including concerts, political events, and sporting events."

"In the city centre, seek out the Heart of Midlothian for a uniquely Scottish piece of history. The Heart of Midlothian is set in the pavement on the Royal Mile, constructed from coloured granite blocks that form the shape of a heart and cross. This landmark records the position of the 15th century ‘heart’ of the town, the Old Tolbooth."

"Kanpai Sushi is a hip Japanese restaurant in the heart of Edinburgh, a short walk from the Usher Hall. Winner of the Best Newcomer Award at the Scottish Restaurant Awards 2012, this sophisticated eatery has been making friends fast and looks likely to be serving beautifully prepared sushi and sake to discerning clientele for some time. The menu is, unsurprisingly, dominated by delectable seafood."

"This multi award-winning Japanese restaurant and takeaway serves a variety of sushi, tempura, teppan and more. The food is outstanding, and the restaurant's elegant interior and ambience makes it the perfect date night restaurant for sushi lovers. As with all the best restaurants, we advise you to book in advance."

"If you’re going to visit one sushi restaurant in Edinburgh, make it Kanpai. It’s the most expensive restaurant on this list, but it’s also easily the best sushi in the city. The presentation of their food is superb, and the menu is full of inventive dishes."

"This family-run café is renowned for their Pot-Tails – cocktails in teapots. Open from 10am to 10pm every day, they offer everything from brunch to dinner and Sunday roasts. A visual delight, the café is decorated with antique furniture and the walls are covered with artworks from aspiring artists trying to sell their wares."

"I skipped this since I’m a veg and went with the Roseleafer, which consists of vegetarian haggis, beans, tomatoes, mushroom, egg, spinach, and toast. Talk about major deliciousness!"

"Another great Leith favourite, Roseleaf has Schiehallion Craft Lager on tap alongside two guest kegs, a range of guest ales, and a selection of the best bottles."