Lifestyle editor Gary Flockhart highlighted this hidden Edinburgh treasure. He said: "St Cecilia’s may be Scotland’s oldest music hall, but it remains something of a hidden gem, with many locals unaware of its existence. Built by the Edinburgh Musical Society in 1762, it is tucked away in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The venue is home to University of Edinburgh’s collection of historic musical instruments - including its world-famous harpsichords. St Cecilia’s is said to be the only place in the world where you can hear 18th-century music being played on 18th-century instruments in an 18th-century setting."Lifestyle editor Gary Flockhart highlighted this hidden Edinburgh treasure. He said: "St Cecilia’s may be Scotland’s oldest music hall, but it remains something of a hidden gem, with many locals unaware of its existence. Built by the Edinburgh Musical Society in 1762, it is tucked away in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The venue is home to University of Edinburgh’s collection of historic musical instruments - including its world-famous harpsichords. St Cecilia’s is said to be the only place in the world where you can hear 18th-century music being played on 18th-century instruments in an 18th-century setting."
Lifestyle editor Gary Flockhart highlighted this hidden Edinburgh treasure. He said: "St Cecilia’s may be Scotland’s oldest music hall, but it remains something of a hidden gem, with many locals unaware of its existence. Built by the Edinburgh Musical Society in 1762, it is tucked away in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The venue is home to University of Edinburgh’s collection of historic musical instruments - including its world-famous harpsichords. St Cecilia’s is said to be the only place in the world where you can hear 18th-century music being played on 18th-century instruments in an 18th-century setting." | Scottish Civic Trust

10 Edinburgh hidden treasures including St Cecilia’s Concert Hall and Mosque Kitchen - chosen by us

Kevin Quinn
By Kevin Quinn
Published 10th Mar 2024, 04:45 BST
Updated 10th Mar 2024, 11:50 BST

Great Edinburgh places you might not know about

Living in a major city like Edinburgh it can be hard to keep on top of all the greatest places to spend your time, so we've chosen our favourite hidden treasures in the Capital.

Whether that be the best book shops, restaurants, bars, green spaces or concert venues, we've got plenty of Edinburgh hidden gems for you to explore, including St Cecilia’s Music Museum & Concert Hall hidden away in the Cowgate, or the idyllic oasis of Dr Neil’s Garden in Duddingston, which was recently named the UK's most peaceful place.

Evening News reporter Neil Johnson highlighted this University of Edinburgh building's garden. He said: "The garden to the rear of Abden House is a really peaceful spot in the city’s south side. Popular with dog walkers and young families, it’s the perfect place to unwind with the enclosed garden providing views of Arthur’s Seat and the golf course. It’s also a great place to see wildlife from hedgehogs and even weasels."

5. Abden House Garden

Evening News reporter Neil Johnson highlighted this University of Edinburgh building's garden. He said: "The garden to the rear of Abden House is a really peaceful spot in the city’s south side. Popular with dog walkers and young families, it’s the perfect place to unwind with the enclosed garden providing views of Arthur’s Seat and the golf course. It’s also a great place to see wildlife from hedgehogs and even weasels." | National World Photo: National World

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Lifestyle editor Gary Flockhart likes a quiet pint upstairs in this city centre pub. He said: "The upstairs section of the Waverley Bar is absolutely stunning - but it's an area that very few visitors to the pub seem to know exists. It's a great spot to hit for a quiet pint and the decor is like something from a different century."

6. The Waverley Bar

Lifestyle editor Gary Flockhart likes a quiet pint upstairs in this city centre pub. He said: "The upstairs section of the Waverley Bar is absolutely stunning - but it's an area that very few visitors to the pub seem to know exists. It's a great spot to hit for a quiet pint and the decor is like something from a different century." | Sub Photo: sub

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This community book shop at Leith Walk was chosen by reporter Jamie Saunderson as an Edinburgh hidden gem. He said: "With a wide selection of books, knowledgeable staff and a pleasant cafe, Argonaut Books is a great spot for anyone fancying a browse or looking for their next read. The Leith Walk store also hosts a range of fun events including board game sessions and book discussion groups."

7. Argonaut Books

This community book shop at Leith Walk was chosen by reporter Jamie Saunderson as an Edinburgh hidden gem. He said: "With a wide selection of books, knowledgeable staff and a pleasant cafe, Argonaut Books is a great spot for anyone fancying a browse or looking for their next read. The Leith Walk store also hosts a range of fun events including board game sessions and book discussion groups." Photo: Argonaut Books Instagram

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Talking about the garden of this Edinburgh hotel, reporter Neil Johnstone said: "I discovered the grounds of Prestonfield House during the first lockdown, with the tranquil setting being a true haven in a busy part of the city. Alongside the 17th century hotel, visitors can also see highland cows and the hotel’s resident peacock as they walk around the well-kept gardens."

8. Prestonfield House

Talking about the garden of this Edinburgh hotel, reporter Neil Johnstone said: "I discovered the grounds of Prestonfield House during the first lockdown, with the tranquil setting being a true haven in a busy part of the city. Alongside the 17th century hotel, visitors can also see highland cows and the hotel’s resident peacock as they walk around the well-kept gardens." | National World Photo: National World

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