Is Edinburgh good for couples? This is a question our reception team are asked a lot! The answer is, of course, a resounding YES! Whether you’re going on that exciting first date or celebrating a special anniversary, our magical city has a seemingly endless list of experiences to get you in the mood for love.
Read on to discover Edinburgh’s favourite passion-igniting sights, activities and places to eat.
What can couples do in Edinburgh?
Beach walks by Portobello
A quick bus journey (or long walk) will take you to the pleasant seaside suburb of Portobello Beach. A stroll along the promenade here provides everything you’d expect from a visit to the coast; ice cream trucks, beach-side cafes, amusements and photo-worthy orange sunsets.
Capture a romantic memory in Edinburgh’s Old Town
Tucked quietly amongst the mysterious closes of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile is a delightful secret just perfect for a romantic photo – a large heart-shaped ivy crawling up the walls of Chessels Court.
Dunbar’s Close
Enjoy a private moment without ever having to leave the inner city. Magical Dunbar’s Close is located towards the bottom end of The Royal Mile; a pretty, cobblestoned entranceway leading visitors to a recreated 17th-century walled garden.
Indoor Rock Climbing at Alien Rock
Feeling competitive? With over 200 routes to choose from, Alien Rock’s climb centre encourages sporty couples to put their strength and endurance to the test. Located in an old church on the North shores of the city, there’s an indoor course for everyone, from experienced climbers to rock climbing new starts.
Where can I go on a date in Edinburgh?
First dates can be a little nerve wracking. Deciding what to wear, agreeing on where to go, those little moments of awkward silence, there’s a lot to think about. The Bonham Hotel team agree that arranging a light-hearted activity is failsafe way of making sure the conversation doesn’t run dry. Take a look at our date ideas around Edinburgh …
Make your own gin at the Darnley’s Gin Experience
A little drink can often calm pre-meeting jitters. However, for first dates, we like to go with the famous Millionaire Matchmaker’s advice, 2 drinks maximum! Conveniently located on Edinburgh’s central Castle Street, the new Darnley’s Gin Experience invites gin enthusiasts to blend their very own gin. Pick from your favourite flavours and take home a personalised bottle of your new creation (they even keep the recipe on file, for whenever you might need a top up!).
See a stand-up comedy show
We’ve heard that finding someone who can make you laugh is the secret to a happy relationship. Guarantee first date giggles with a trip to one of Edinburgh’s many comedy venues. We recommend The Stand. They run shows every day and promote a great mix of well-known names and up and coming stars.
Watch the sunset on a volcano
Nothing keeps you busier than a hike up an 822 ft extinct volcano! And, with 360 views stretching across Edinburgh and beyond, there isn’t a better place to than Arthur’s Seat to settle down and watch the sunset over Scotland’s capital. Start on the hill’s Northern path for a glimpse of Saint Anthony’s Chapel, a crumbling fairy-tale ruin perched upon the ragged outcrop.
Explore Edinburgh’s cycle paths
The criss-crossing cycle paths around Edinburgh are often overlooked in favour of the popular Water of Leith walkway. However, these trails are packed full of pretty bridges, abandoned railway tunnels and jungle-like greenery just waiting to be explored. Our favourite of the routes has to be the paths heading down to Newhaven, in particular, Trinity Path, with its Jumanji-like green canopy and hanging vines.
And finally … Treat yourself to a stay in a luxury hotel
What could be more romantic than an overnight stay in one of the most whimsical cities in the world? Delight your sweetheart with a 5-star city centre getaway at The Bonham Hotel. With 49 individually designed rooms, our boutique Georgian house hotel is the perfect base from which to explore the city or relax. Explore our rooms and foodie offerings.
