After extensive redevelopments of British cities by the Luftwaffe, it might seem that finding a UK city that actually looks good is not so easy. But those airborne death mongers did actually miss quite few places of note. One of them is the beautiful Scottish capital, Edinburgh.

Few city centres on this island manage to maintain such a large tract of charming architecture, charming art museums, charming parks and charming deep fried mars-bar shops. To mention deep fried mars bars so early in a Scotland related post is surely being facetious, so I should probably mention lesser known fatty treats such as deep fried Double Deckers and deep fried Twixs. Don’t try the deep fried Smarties – they’re a waste of time.

Whatever they say about Scottish food, it certainly is filling. But if the idea of eating ground up sheep offal wrapped up in its own stomach lining isn’t your cup of tea (the world famous Haggis), you could always try the vegetarian version. This must be consumed with a portion of chips and a can of Irn Bru to be fully appreciated. Joking aside, this really is a nice meal.

Apart from stuffing your face, you’ll probably want to check out the dominating castle, and explore the many smoky brick streets of this absorbing city. The seat of the Scottish government is also a must, as is a trek up Arthur’s Seat. The Royal Mile and Princess Street are two more tourist hotspots, where you’ll find plenty of crowd pleasing entertainers.

No trip to Edinburgh is complete without getting completely battered on some of the fine Scottish ales available here. The pubs you drink them in also offer fine, brassy, woody surroundings – and the locals provide plenty of good company – enthusiastic beer swillers the likes of which you’re unlikely to find anywhere else on Earth.