SeptemberJournal

September is often a good time to explore Edinburgh. The streets are much quieter and you can get a better local's perspective without the Festival fanfare. Make the most of the exhibitions and the chance to see beyond usually closed doors during Doors Open Day.

Doors Open Day gives access to hidden architectural gems in locations throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians. Buildings are opened to the public in celebration of their fascinating architecture and the stories they can tell. Different buildings open each year - from Edinburgh's observatories to anatomical museums - but it depends on the programme so do check their website.

• Doors Open Days | tbc
• Edinburgh Riding of the Marches | tbc

• Nurture Through Nature with Children’s Books | 19th April - 9th September 2025
• The World of King James VI and I | 26th April - 14th September 2025
• Andy Goldsworthy | Fifty Years | 26th July - 2nd November 2025
• Jupiter Artland | Late March - Late September 2025
• Little Sparta : The Garden of Ian Hamilton Finlay | open June, July, August & September

To escape the city for a few days, follow our Outlander locations blog and explore some wild and wonderful local locations locally. Check out the Royal Burgh of Curloss, Blackness Castle, or the eerily beautiful Glencorse Kirk just down the glen.

• The National Galleries of Scotland have a huge number of events, tours and artist workshops for adults and kids.
• Hopetoun House and grounds host ranger-walks and house tours throughout the year.
• Dalkeith Country Park is very similar, bushcraft, walks and foraging workshops are hosted frequently alongside their fabulous Fort Douglas Treehouse and adventure playground for kids and Go Ape course for adults.
• Dovecot Studios offer behind the scenes tours and workshops on tapestry, drawing and needlework.
• And last but not least, the National Museums Scotland host in depth tours for grown ups and fantastic exhibition interpretations for little ones.

We've listed some of our favourite Edinburgh and country based restaurants & shops and suppliers for your Autumn break.

Pick your own fresh local produce at Craigie's Farm Shop. This month their strawberries, raspberries, sunflowers, peas, french beans, runner beans, blackberries, and apples are in season.

Brew your own

How about booking yourselves in to Craft Beer Kitchen? Stewarts Brewing has long invited the public in to try their hand at crafting the perfect pint. With expert guidance you can spend the day brewing your very own bespoke beer. If staying at Eastside, the brewery are more than happy to send the beer on (within the UK) when it's ready. Not a bad holiday souvenir!

Whether you are looking for a blissful afternoon in a chic city spa or a delightfully rustic country spa day we've got you covered in our Best city & country spas in & around Edinburgh post.