Things to do in Balerno

Activities, attractions and tours

Great view across the Threipmuir Reservoir
Great view across the Threipmuir Reservoir
Beautiful Pentland Hills. Awesome walk through Threipmuir Regional Park.
Kaimes Hill
A lovely little detour from the main path.
Photo by subberculture (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
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Top places to visit

1. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle, the oldest building in the city, sits high on a craggy volcanic rock just near the city center. During its history, which spans almost a thousand years, the stronghold has witnessed sieges, served as a military base and provided refuge for Scottish monarchs.
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Edinburgh Castle in Edinburgh, Scotland

2. Royal Mile

Go for a sightseeing trip along the Royal Mile, a series of streets that forms the main artery of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the oldest part of the city. This ancient cobblestone route stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It has been used by pedestrians for hundreds of years, and houses some of the city’s most fascinating old buildings.
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sunset time, Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland

3. University of Edinburgh

Explore the campuses of the University of Edinburgh and soak up the academic atmosphere in its museums and galleries. Sights such as the quad of the Georgian Old College and the Gothic towers of New College on the Mound are iconic parts of the cityscape.
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University of Edinburgh showing heritage architecture and heritage elements

4. Edinburgh Zoo

Escape to the Edinburgh Zoo for a few hours of animal-based adventures. Spread over an 82-acre (33-hectare) site, the zoo has a collection of more than 1,000 animals representing almost 200 species.
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Edinburgh Zoo which includes zoo animals and marine life

5. National Museum of Scotland

Be engrossed for hours in the National Museum of Scotland’s fascinating exhibits. This celebrated attraction packs hundreds of displays into its high-ceilinged galleries and white-marble corridors. A comprehensive look at Scottish history adds local interest, while exhibits dedicated to anthropology and technology give the museum a global perspective.
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National Museum of Scotland featuring interior views

What to do in Balerno

Popular places to visit

Edinburgh Castle which includes heritage elements and château or palace

Edinburgh Castle

Fortress, palace and repository of the crown jewels, this landmark overlooking the city has played a crucial role in Scottish history.

Edinburgh Castle
Royal Mile which includes a house, heritage architecture and street scenes

Royal Mile

Explore this area in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town to find ancient buildings, historic relics, shops, museums and range of dining options.

Royal Mile
Walter Scott Monument in the Rainy Day, Edinburgh, Scotland

Princes Street

During your trip to Edinburgh, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Princes Street. Experience the entertainment choices and fascinating museums in this walkable area.

Princes Street
Scenic sight in Edinburgh with the Castle in the background. Scotland.

Grassmarket

During your visit to Edinburgh, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Grassmarket. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Grassmarket
Aerial view of Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, Roseburn St, Edinburgh, VK

Murrayfield Stadium

Catch an event at Murrayfield Stadium and enjoy other activities in Edinburgh such as golfing.Discover the lively festivals and shops in this walkable area.

Murrayfield Stadium
University of Edinburgh showing heritage architecture and heritage elements

University of Edinburgh

The campus of Edinburgh's venerable educational institution is spread seamlessly around the architecture of the city and opens to the public during year-round events.

University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh Zoo showing land animals and zoo animals

Edinburgh Zoo

See rare and endangered species and learn about the efforts to conserve them at Edinburgh’s largest wildlife attraction.

Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh royal playhouse theater

Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre

Enjoy a performance at Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre, a theatre with a story to tell in Edinburgh. Experience the area's fascinating museums and lively festivals.

Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre
street view of George street at Edinburgh, scotland

George Street

During your trip to Edinburgh, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at George Street. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

George Street
Calton Hill which includes a sunset, skyline and a city

Edinburgh

Newbridge Dartmoor Devon

Newbridge

West Hill Camp prehistoric site, Kirknewton, Northumberland. Early palisade trench then Iron Age rampart settlement then Romano-British. View to West

Kirknewton

West Kip, East Kip and Scald Law on a stunning Novembral day...

West Linton

Frequently asked questions

Is Balerno worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor adventures and history, there are loads of fun things to do in Balerno. Make sure to discover the area's blend of unmissable attractions, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Balerno?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Edinburgh Castle and Edinburgh Zoo. Then, check out different areas of Balerno for local restaurants and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Balerno?
You can't go home without checking out Edinburgh Castle, rated the top tourist attraction in Balerno.
Is three days enough to stay in Balerno?
Three days in Balerno is plenty of time to visit the city's main attractions. Many travellers book for three days on average. Edinburgh Zoo, The Braid Hills and Blackford Hill are among the most popular sights. Like to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to visit nearby hotspots such as Edinburgh.
Is Balerno a walkable city?
With attractions like Bonaly Country Park close by, Balerno is every bit a place to experience on foot. Like to visit some cool neighbourhoods within walking distance of the city centre? Dalmahoy is just 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Balerno with kids?
If you are after activities and attractions for all ages, take a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in Balerno with kids.

What to do in Balerno for adults?
Scotch Whisky Experience and Edinburgh Gin Distillery are just a couple of the things to do in Balerno. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Balerno?
In Balerno, The Braid Hills is a top spot for anyone looking to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a good way to explore the best free things to do in Balerno.