Now that the Summer Solstice has passed, the days are slowly getting shorter again. We still don’t have to worry about that too much in July, so why not make the most of those late sunsets and warm nights. So, here are the very best things to do in Edinburgh this July.
Attend a reformer pilates class at this brand new studio
There’s a new reformer pilates studio on the block, located in the heart of the city centre at One Spa, within The Sheraton Grand hotel. Opening its doors on Monday, June 29, the space boasts six TechnoGym reformer machines, so it never gets too crowded. Plus, you don’t have to be a member to enjoy a class! And after your class, why not enjoy the only rooftop outdoor pool in Scotland, as well as the spa’s thermal suite! You can book your class here.
Get transported to the familiar worlds of some of the best movies of all time, as Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer brings all of his best works, all surrounded by the calming hues of candlelight. Expect a string quartet, played in a way you’ve never heard before, among a sea of candles, transforming St Mary’s Cathedral. You can get your tickets on Fever.
That’s right, there’s an actual gourmet mashed potato bar in Edinburgh called Makars Mash Bar. And that’s not all. They grow their own mushrooms in a funky, UV-lit basement called the Mushroom Emporium that you can also check out. The spot boasts a homely indoor space with an extension, as well as an outdoor terrace with “amazing sunsets” on one side and overlooking Makar’s Court on the other. Mashed potato lovers can either go for their choice of meat, paired with flavoured mashed potatoes (there are NINE) or opt for the home-grown mushrooms.
Check out mataraki celebration at a local microbrewery in Leith
We love any type of drink-related event, but this one is also a small local business having organised a Mataraki celebration right here in Leith in collaboration with the New Zealand Society Scotland. Moonwake is hosting Lunarpalooza on July 2, inviting all beer enthusiasts to come enjoy all the best brews, premium tequila margaritas and New Zealand-inspired street food. Out of all the things to do this July, we’re really excited about this one!
Try out this Asian-inspired spot in New Town
Lucky Yu is a cosy Asian-inspired spot located on Broughton Street in Edinburgh, boasting ultimate favourites like bao buns and gyoza. We went to try it out for ourselves, and the Karaage fried chicken with yuzu mayo with the crispy potatoes with umaminaise and tonkatsu sauce stole the show. When visiting, guests MUST try them! The cured trout with radish, fennel and horseradish salad was also a standout, boasting balanced flavours.
Grab some award-winning burgers
Beloved burger joint El Perro Negro is located within Bonnie & Wild, highlighting the importance of knowing where your food comes from, and has become a favourite in Edinburgh’s burger scene. Crafting the perfect burger is a task of limitless opportunity: top it with onion rings, blue cheese, barbecue sauce, pixie dust or a small child… It will still taste amazing, well, maybe not the small child part but you get the idea that anything goes. El Perro Negro crafted its signature Top Dog burger and was crowned National Burger of the Year in 2021 and 2019 at the National Burger Awards.
Edinburgh Food Festival is a yearly street food event that will be taking place between July 24 and August 2 this year. The festival offers free entry and is located at George Street Gardens, just before the iconic Edinburgh Fringe festival will commence on August 4. Guests can start getting into festival mode and enjoy some of street food favourites from over 30 local vendors.
Fat Hippo is located on George Street in Edinburgh, welcoming burger enthusiasts with a full menu of messy burgers and more. For those who visit Fat Hippo’s burger joints, it is all about getting food all over one’s face, so guests are advised not to wear anything light in colour. The signature beef and boneless buttermilk chicken patties come with free hand-cut chips, with a range of vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options available. Plus, fries are always included with every burger, and there’s a build-your-own kids menu for the fussier eaters.
Locals and visitors alike can indulge in an experience with live performances, breaking whisky-drinking rules, learning the distilling process and trying some flavoured highballs or a wee dram for yourself. The Journey of Flavour Experience at Johnnie Walker Princes Street offers a range of whisky experiences, where whisky lovers can enjoy some fun-filled education paired with some whisky tasting. The tour takes 90-minutes to complete, with guests getting the chance to try three drinks in the form of a highball, an old-fashioned or a wee dram. So, it doesn’t matter if you were born and bred in Edinburgh, you can still try something new every time you visit Johnnie Walker Princes Street.
Edinburgh is filled with phenomenal views, so what’s a better way to marvel at said vistas than from a rooftop bar? Whether it’s summer or the height of winter, Edinburghers adore rooftop bars. Whether you’re looking for a wee suntrap spot with stunning views or a covered terrace overlooking the castle to keep you sheltered during rainier days, you will find it all in our guide to the very best rooftop bars in Edinburgh.
