Ditch the post-holiday blues and book in a weekend away instead! The UK has so much to offer and sometimes, we don’t realise the beauty we have right on our doorstep! This week, we’re sharing our Hip & Healthy guide to Edinburgh where you’ll find delicious food, welcoming hospitality and some awesome places to workout!

SLEEP

Rock House
This cosy, historic, self-catering house sits on the slopes of Edinburgh’s Calton Hill, which provides stunning views of the city! It has been completely transformed into an inviting and beautifully designed place where guests can feel completely at home. Perfect for a group trip with the Rock House sleeping eight people, while the accompanying apartments and studios sleep from two to four. Whilst being utterly private and tucked away, Rock House is just a few minutes walk from bustling Princes Street, which runs through the centre of Edinburgh and is home to an array of restaurants, bars and shops.

The Principal Hotel
Lavishly decked out with a combination of luxuriously chic and traditional Scottish décor, The Principal has put a modern twist on Edinburgh’s rich heritage. Snuggle by the fire after a chilly day exploring the city and enjoy a delicious, artisan coffee and delicious brownie made by their partner Burr & Co which resides next door. Located on Edinburgh’s beautiful George Street, the hotel is very central with gorgeous surroundings. Whether you are in Edinburgh for the sights, the shopping or the bars and restaurants, this is the place to be.

SWEAT

Reform Studios
Fancy an early morning burn before brunch? Head to Reform Studios, which is nestled on New Town’s Howe Street and try one of their challenging reformer pilates classes that will work on strengthening and toning your muscles whilst putting your fitness to the test! Prepare yourself for a powerful endorphin rush and achy muscles the next day!

Tribe Yoga
This state of the art, boutique yoga studio is a breath of fresh air and a place to completely unwind and enjoy a range of classes on offer including yoga, pilates and barre. Staff are highly trained and welcoming, making everyone who comes to class (whether you are a complete beginner or a lifetime yogi) feel comfortable and relaxed. Their beautiful showers, with toiletries, hairdryers and towels provided, makes fitting in a class into your busy weekend that much easier. Tribe Yoga has two studios located in New Town and on Quartermile, so no matter which part of town you are staying in, make sure you give this studio a visit.

Arthur’s Seat
A must-do when visiting Edinburgh is Arthur’s Seat! (see main image above) Situated in the South-East, this is a magnificent hike that many locals and tourists enjoy doing. Sitting at an impressive 251 meters above sea level, once at the top, you can take in the stunning views of the city! It’ll take you a couple of hours to get to the top but it’s so worth the effort!

EAT

Hula Café – Grass Market
Right on the corner of quirky Grass Market, Hula Café is the perfect spot for a healthy, delicious and Instagram worthy bite, just head over to their Instagram page for evidence. With a menu that ranges from acai bowls and avocado on sourdough toast to poke bowls and homemade wraps, there is something for every appetite! From its funky interior to its delicious menu, this cute little café is definitely one to add to your list.

Checkpoint – Bristo Place
Just a few minutes walk from The Royal Mile, inside a refurbished church, you will find Checkpoint, a buzzy restaurant with a menu inspired by cuisines from all over the world. The industrial interior creates a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere and is popular with the trendy Edinburgh crowd. The food is fresh, (Chef Phil insists on cooking only with seasonal ingredients) and filling whilst also being very different to any other menu in Edinburgh. Whether you are looking for brunch, dinner or just a quick coffee and bite to go, Checkpoint will not disappoint.

Urban Angel – Hanover St
On a chilly Sunday morning in Edinburgh, duck out of the cold and into the warm and cosy sanctuary of Urban Angel, which is located just moments away from George St in the centre of New Town. Their brunch menu is to die for and available all day, so you don’t have to sacrifice that precious lie in! We can highly recommend the chorizo & mushroom poached eggs as well as the avocado and ricotta. Urban Angel also has a mouth-watering dinner menu with a warm nutty brownie for dessert that you will be dreaming about for weeks after, need we say more?

words by Lucy Edgerley

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