Continuing the theme…
Whilst our fair city is overrun with tourists, I thought I’d post some of the great ways to spend time and recharge in between festival shows this month.
1. Mirazozo
Not quite a Fringe show but located in George Square/Assembly, the Mirazozo is a huge inflatable structure based on Islamic architecture which allows natural sunlight to filter though creating amazing stained glass window effects and optical illusions through lighting effects. Ambient music adds to the tranquil, other-worldly atmosphere and there are lots of corners where you can sit or lie for as long as you want until you feel at peace with the world. The light patterns are beautiful and it is hard to believe these are not created by electricity. (Admission £5)
2. Arthur’s Seat
It is hard to miss this big hill in the centre of Edinburgh
3. The
Located on Chamber’s Street, the Museum has just re-opened its doors after major refurbishment and is bigger, better and more beautiful than ever. Fascinating exhibitions and displays will keep visitors of any age amused and enthralled. (Free entrance)
4. Hedonics Massage
Anyone who has spent time hanging out in the main venues of the Udderbelly and Pleasance Courtyard will have seen a small team of masseurs wandering around offering 10 minute head, neck and shoulder massages. Trust me this is the best ten minutes you will ever spend and the idea is that you donate what you think the massage is worth. Truly one of the best massages I have ever had.
5. The Royal Mile
The High Street section of the Mile is essentially a market place where performers and publicists advertise their shows. It is extremely crowded, lively and energetic with excerpts from plays, musicals, magic and comedy been played out all around you whilst people thrust handfuls of flyers at you from every direction. There are street performers commanding large crowds as they juggle and perform jokes and acrobatics and a small market place with local craft producers selling their wares. Truly the heart of the festival.
6. The Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has been the jewel in the crown of the Edinburgh Festival for over 50 years and still commands enormous crowds from around the globe every night. Say what you will about military pomp and ceremony but there are few spectacles like this around and everyone stops what they are doing around the city to watch the fireworks light up the sky at the close of performance each night.
Like a larger version of the market place on the Royal Mile, around 40-50 local artists, jewellers and other craftsmen set up camp outside the St George’s church for three weeks offering unique gifts and ethical fair-trade products.
8. The Water of Leith
Get out of the city and stretch your legs along Edinburgh Leith to Balerno. It’s a long distance so few would do it in one go but certain sections are worth a wander for the time-pressed. Especially the beautiful stretch from Murrayfield to Stockbridge which takes in the rear entrance to the Modern Art Gallery, National AIDS memorial site, Dean Bridge, St Bernard’s Well, 2 x Anthony Gormley Sculptures and other impressive sites. If you are lucky you may see herons, water voles and other wildlife.
9. Stockbridge
Despite its proximity to the city centre, Stockbridge retains a local, villagey feel. Quite bohemian in atmosphere there are treasure troves of shops to explore, lots of lovely cafes and some of the best pubs in Edinburgh
10. Pleasance Courtyard
Before the other venues opened up eating and drinking spaces, the Pleasance was always the main hub of Fringe activity and despite the contenders it retains superiority. Yes, it will probably rain and you’ll get wet and yes, the drinks are overpriced and served in plastic glasses but there is so much to see and do whether or not you actually have tickets for a show, a great atmosphere around and lots of opportunity for people watching, not to mention celeb-spotting!
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