111 Places in Edinburgh That You Shouldn't Miss [Paperback]

Part of the international 111 Places series, this is the ultimate insider's guide to Edinburgh, featuring unusual places not found in traditional travel guides. Revised and updated.

Edinburgh is rightly celebrated for its famous historical and cultural attractions. But for the discerning visitor it has much more to offer away from the well-worn tourist trail. This book takes you to hidden corners and secret sights in this city of contrasts, exploring fascinating locations unknown even to most residents, and revealing unexpected aspects of some familiar local landmarks. Marvel at a unique underground temple hewn out of the living rock; learn how a world-famous illusionist came to be buried here - with his dog; find out why the city council once commissioned an enormous electric blanket; look out for the ordinary Edinburgh post box with an explosive history. Discover the human stories behind a wide range of places, both exceptional and commonplace, bringing to life the greatly varied cityscape where people have been leaving their mark for at least 5,000 years.Gillian Taitwas born in Edinburgh and grew up in other parts of Scotland. She studied art history and painting conservation at the universities of Edinburgh and London respectively, and worked in the museum sector for many years before reinventing herself as a researcher, editor, writer and photographer. She is the author and photographer of111 Places in Edinburgh That You Shouldn’t Missand 111 Places in Fife That You Shouldn’t Miss, and also contributed to111 Places in Glasgow That You Shouldn’t Missas photographer and editor. She lives in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.Abbey Strand The privilege of sanctuary | 10 Ann Street Homes of quality | 12 Ashley Terrace Boat House Reviving the mathematical river | 14 Barnton Quarry Bunker Cold comfort in the Cold War | 16 Blackford Hill A ringside view of the Ice Age | 18 The Botanic Cottage An enlightelC)