The Capital of Scotland
Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and is approximately 400 miles/650km north of London and can be reached from London by air (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes); train (approx. 4 hours 30 minutes); bus (approx. 9 to 10 hours).
Edinburgh is marking its 900th anniversary across 2024-25. Find out more about Edinburgh 900.
Edinburgh, as a Fairtrade City, stands as a beacon of ethical consumerism and social responsibility.
Through community initiatives, educational programs, and a vibrant marketplace, Edinburgh fosters a culture of fairness and empowerment, ensuring that the voices of marginalized producers are heard and valued.
This commitment not only enhances the city’s unique character but also inspires residents and visitors alike to make informed choices that contribute to a more just world.
Edinburgh Airport
Edinburgh Airport to the City Centre is approximately 8 miles/13km. You can travel between the two by bus, tram, or taxi.
| Airport Bus | £5 single or £8 return (30 – 40 minutes*) |
| Tram to the Airport | £7.50 single or £9.50 return (Approx 35 minutes) |
| Taxi | About £30 one-way (Takes 30-40 minutes*) |
* depending on traffic
Edinburgh can also be reached from Glasgow Airport, approximately 55 miles/90km and 1.5 to 2 hours away by bus or train.
- Edinburgh Airport
- Edinburgh Airport Transport Links
- Scotrail train timetables and fares
- Citylink intercity and long-distance bus timetables and fares
Exploring Edinburgh
The Visit Scotland website provides all the information you might want regarding tourist activities and attractions across Scotland, and includes a useful section on Edinburgh, including many free things to do.
There are two independent Fair Trade businesses in central Edinburgh: the One World Shop and Hadeel. Both are well worth a visit, and if you are hungry you might want to choose to eat at Pulse, which is close-by.
Should you need to top-up your food supplies, you can do so at Real Foods, which has many Fairtrade and vegan options. Other supermarkets, including the Co-op and Scotmid offer various Fairtrade food products. And if you want an evening out on your own, Edinburgh has many restaurants and cafes offering a wide range of choice. We are fortunate to have a large range of good vegan dining options at reasonable prices.
Some of the sites to consider seeing include Edinburgh Castle, strolling down the Royal Mile to the Scottish Parliament, and reaching the top of Arthur’s Seat. We do have plans to visit Arthur’s Seat together as a group on the Sunday morning. There’s also the National Galleries Scotland, a visit to Princes Street Gardens for a good view of Edinburgh Castle and to wait for the One O’clock Gun. Wander up Cockburn Street, along the Royal Mile and then back down Victoria Street to the Grassmarket.
There’s so much to see and do that you may wish to stay longer in Edinburgh, and to explore more of Scotland on your own.