Destinations

15 Fun Activities To Do When Visiting Edinburgh in August

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This post shares activities to try when visiting Edinburgh in the month of August.

Are you planning a trip to Edinburgh in August? I’d say this is one of the best times of the year to visit.

The weather is perfect for exploring the ancient Scottish capital. Filled with history, culture, and even live performances.

Edinburgh In August. Explore all the historical sites and fun activities Edinburgh has to offer in August.

Let’s look at some of the best activities you can enjoy while you visit Edinburgh, so you don’t miss out on anything.

1. Celebrate Festival Season in Edinburgh

During the month of August Edinburgh becomes the centre for Festivals. Each one overlapping another at some point during the month.

From performing arts, to exhibitions, and more there is something for everyone to enjoy during festival season.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Edinburgh Festival Fringe performer.
Credit: @thescotsmanhotel

In August, Edinburgh’s Festival Fringe brings artists from all over the world to the city, for a three-week extravaganza.

Artists, with many different backgrounds, from theatre to comedy, perform in venues all over Edinburgh. Including free shows in the streets for everyone to enjoy.

Edinburgh International Festival

The International Festival, held in Scotland, celebrates performing arts.

Featuring world-class, professional, performers in dance, opera, music, and theatre. The International Festival unites diverse viewpoints and adds to an already vibrant summer atmosphere.

Edinburgh International Book Festival

Edinburgh International Book Festival taking place at Edinburgh College of Art.
Credit: @edinuniestates

The Edinburgh International Book Festival is a world class celebration of words, literature, and ideas. 

Held annually in August at Edinburgh College of Art. Explore author booths, seminars, and book signings from world renowned authors.

Edinburgh Arts Festival

The Edinburgh Art Festival is a premier visual art festival in the UK. Renowned for its diverse programming and deep community ties.

This festival welcomes more than 200 artists!

With several locations spread across the Scottish capital, see Edinburgh through the eyes of the artists.

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Edinburgh Castle Esplanade showcasing the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Credit: @musicfromscotland

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a long-standing tradition, combines global culture, military customs, and Scottish heritage.

All of these taking place in the castles esplanade, against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

Edinburgh International Film Festival

The Edinburgh International Film Festival has been celebrating cinema for over 75 years now. Focusing on innovative talent and set in a historic location.

The program has a variety of categories that are shown includes features, documentaries, shorts, and more. 

2. Go Back in Time and Explore Edinburgh Castle

View of Edinburgh Castle on Castle Rock. Looking up from Grassmarket.

A part of Old Town Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle is one of the main tourist attractions.

Explore the castle grounds, the great hall, St. Margaret’s Chapel, and even the military prisons.

Plan for exploring the castle grounds for a minimum of two hours.

3. Wander Down The Royal Mile

Looking down the Royal Mile turned away from Edinburgh Castle

After visiting Edinburgh Castle, take your time, and wander down the Royal Mile.

Along the way you can enjoy the street performers, unique shops filled with trinkets, and St. Giles Cathedral.  

At the end you will come across Holyrood Palace and the modern Scottish parliament building.

There’s nothing better than spending a warm summer day wandering and exploring a new city at a slower pace.

4. Explore the National Museum of Scotland

Inside the National Museum of Scotland

As you’re strolling down the Royal Mile why not take a detour and visit the National Museum of Scotland?

Scotland has such a rich history the National Museum of Scotland highlights it all. 

Step through the doors and be stunned by the central atrium. Wander through the Grand Gallery and look at the many historical artifacts of the country.

Animals in the National Museum of Scotland situated in Edinburgh.

Explore other galleries filled with histories of other nations and have fun with the interactive displays. 

Finish the visit with a snack from the cafe.

Tip: Plan to visit one of Edinburgh’s main tourist attractions ahead of time. Although it’s free to enter, you do need to book a specific entry time. 

5. Calton Hill: The Best View in Town

Calton Hill overlooking Edinburgh with  the Dugald Stewart Monument.
Credit: @Pexels

Just off Regent Road, and an easy five-minute walk up some stairs, at the top you will be taken to one of the best viewpoints of Edinburgh.

This spot is a personal favourite of mine!

Also, a UNESCO Heritage site, explore the National Monument, Nelson Monument, and the city observatory.

Calton Hill in the Distance with the National Monument and Nelson Monument in view. Edinburgh, Scotland.

Take pictures of the Scottish capital with the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle rising over the city atop Castle Rock.

I would recommend visiting near sunset! So don’t forget your camera to get the perfect shot.

6. Visit Leith and a take Whiskey Distillery Tour

Waterfront of Leith, a port in Edinburgh.
Credit: @Pexels

A Charming port in Edinburgh, and only 20 minutes from the city centre, using public transport.

With the warm August temperatures, meander along the waterfront and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.

Alternatively, take a tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia or head to the Port of Leith Distillery for a whiskey tour.

Once you’re finished grab lunch or dinner at the numerous pubs and restaurants around the port.

Bonus if you decide to visit on a Saturday, Leith has a weekly farmer’s market that you can check out.

7. Walk Along the Water of Leith Walkway to Dean Village

Village Dean taken along the Water of Leith Walkway
Credit: @Pexels

Not to be confused with the port of Leith, this scenic walkway starts in the centre of Edinburgh and follows the Water of Leith. Leading to the historic Dean Village.

This little village looks like it is nestled in the outskirts of the capital. You would be surprised that it’s so close to the city centre!

Many of the buildings dating back to the 17th Century so you feel like you have really stepped back in time.

8. Hike Up Arthur’s Seat

View of Arthur's Seat and the Royal Mile, in Edinburgh.

Grab your comfortable shoes, a bottle of water, and camera then head towards Holyrood Palace.

FYI there’s a parking area on Queen’s Drive if you have a vehicle.

Before you start your journey, stop and look at St. Margaret’s Well, just across the parking lot.

An alternate view of Arthurs Seat in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Credit: @Pixabay

There are a number of paths up to the top of Arthur’s Seat.

I would make sure that I take a detour, off to the left of the main path, to see St. Anthony’s Chapel Ruins before making your way up. 

Once at the top, have a picnic, relax, and take in the beautiful view of Edinburgh!

9. Shop Along Princes Street and Enjoy the West End Fair

View of Princes Street Looking towards The Balmoral and Scots Monument, Edinburgh
Credit: dontgetserious_travel

When visiting Edinburgh in August the West End Fair takes place at the corner of Princes Street and Lothian Road. On the grounds of St. John’s Church.

Here you’ll find over 100 artisans selling their wares. This is where I would shop for those unique souvenirs. 

As you make your way down Princes Street from the West End Fair you will find a great mix of even more shops to explore.

There are popular stores like Boots, Waterstones, and Primark as well as more tourist focused souvenir shops. 

As Princes Street famous for its bustling shops there is something for everyone.

10. Visit the Scott Monument and enjoy some Peace in Princes Street Gardens

Scot Monument and Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh
Credit: @thisisedinburgh

As you walk along Princes Street, away from the West End Fair and toward St. Pancreas Station take in the Scott Monument.

A towering monument that commemorates famous writer, Sir Walter Scott.

You can even climb up a spiral staircase inside and get a true 360-degree view of the city.

Just be warned, the stairs are narrow with almost 300 steps.

After visiting the Scott Monument make your way down into the Princess Street Gardens.

The Ross Fountain, located in the Princes Street Gardens. Edinburgh, Scotland

Take a break from sightseeing!

Find somewhere to sit and rest your feet. Bring some snacks, and people watch while enjoying the quietness.

Although the gardens are in the city centre it feels like a secret sunken garden. 

Wander along the paths, look at the beautiful Ross fountain and Edinburgh Castle in the background.

11. Grassmarket and Victoria Street: Pubs, Shops, and More

Grassmarket is a lively area in Edinburgh! Filled with many pubs and restaurants and just a short walk from the Royal Mile.

If you are approach it via Victoria Street, you get to take in all the quirky shops and vibrantly coloured buildings.

The best way I can describe Victoria Street, is whimsical and fun!

The Wee Pub the smallest Pub in Scotland situated in Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Scotland.

In the centre court you’ll come across The Last Drop, The Wee Pub, “the smallest pub in Scotland” and a great view of Edinburgh Castle on Castle Rock.

12. Take a Harry Potter Tour

Inside a Harry Potter-esque shop along Victoria st. in Grassmarket, Edinburgh.

If you’re a Harry Potter fan this is definitely a must do excursion.

Edinburgh is where J.K. Rowling lived while writing her famous series!

Your guide will show you areas of Edinburgh that may have sparked inspiration for characters and locations.

Explore the city through the eyes of the wizarding world!

13. St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral: One of Edinburgh’s Not so Hidden Gems

St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral. Scotlands largest Cathedral.
Credit: @johnnychristensen2023

St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, Edinburgh’s, not so hidden gem. As the largest cathedral in Scotland, it’s hard to miss the spires standing out in the skyline.

Stroll through the West End to get to this grand Cathedral. Where you can take in the Victorian Gothic architecture from the street before entering.

Many tourists will visit St. Giles’ Cathedral, along the Royal Mile, as it’s more famous.

However, the inside of St Mary’s Cathedral is thought to more charming.

14. Escape to Serenity at the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh

A garden house at the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh.
Credit: @rbgedinburgh

A perfect place to enjoy the warm, August, weather in Edinburgh, the Royal Botanic Garden will still be in full bloom.

Take a garden tour or wander around the Royal Botanic Gardens at your own pace. 

With such a large flower collection, you will feel like you’ve escaped into a new world and have escaped the bustle of the city.

15. Mary King’s Close and The Edinburgh Vaults: Edinburgh’s Creepy Past

Tour Mary Kings Close for Edinburgh's darker history.
Credit: @marykingsclose

For the thrill seekers take a tour of Mary King’s Close and the Edinburgh Vaults.

Taking a tour with show off the shadier part if Edinburgh’s rich history.

Located underground, Mary Kong’s Close has a history of hauntings. In the 17th century, plague victims were walled up to die in the Close.

The Vaults were a network of tunnels under the Old Town. Where poor people of the capital city lived in complete darkness

Enter if you’re brave enough.

There are many great activities to try in Edinburgh,

whether you love festivals, the history a city holds, or the ancient architecture. The capital city has a bit of everything for everyone.

Edinburgh may feel like you’ve traveled back in time but it’s very much a city celebrating life and the future it has!

In my personal visiting Edinburgh should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Edinburgh In August. Explore all the historical sites and fun activities Edinburgh has to offer in August.

This post showed you 14 fun activities you need to try when you visit Edinburgh in August.

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