A student’s guide to alcohol-free things to do in Edinburgh
By Rowetta, from Edinburgh, studying International Business
Edinburgh is a vibrant city full of history and with so much to do throughout the year. Regardless of rainy (usually) or sunny weather, the time of year, early mornings or late nights, you won’t feel stuck on how to fill up your time. Being from Edinburgh, I will share some unique things to do, focusing on non-alcoholic activities, to boost your inspiration for your next plan!
Xtreme Karting
Location: 2 Huly Hill Road, Newbridge, EH28 8PH
Experience the thrill and test your speed with go-karting at Xtreme Karting! Xtreme Karting is central Scotland’s largest indoor karting track, and they even offer escape rooms and combat laser tag, giving you loads of entertainment opportunities! The excitement of racing with your friends is such a unique experience to do in Edinburgh, and even just wearing the cool gear is great fun!
Community Social Events
Fellow Humans
- With events also in Glasgow, they have hosted tote bag painting and trifle, pasta making, board games and live music, and other regular new events!
View @fellowhumans_ Instagram profile
Shop with No Name
- The events schedule for August and September is already released on their Instagram with events such as ‘Upcycling your ex’s shirts since 2019’ and photography workshops!
View @shop.withnoname Instagram profile
Habits
- Focused on events for creative entrepreneurs through socials and talks with guest speakers as they aim to build the Edinburgh creative community.
- Locations: Variable
View @thisishabits Instagram profile
The community in Edinburgh is one of the most welcoming and friendly ones I have known, and one beautiful way this is amplified is through the community social events. Lots of people don’t know about these events or where to look. I have listed a few above, who each host different wholesome events with the purpose of creating a safe, fun space to meet new people. I recently attended a Habits creative talk, which allowed me to meet so many like-minded creatives, with inspiring stories that opened up my mind to this large supportive community. Everyone was so friendly, and Habits even made treats and a watermelon drink, which were delicious!
Alpine Coaster
Location: Biggar Road, Midlothian, EH10 7DU
By the Midlothian Snowsports centre, is Scotland’s first ever alpine coaster ride, and the longest of its kind in the UK! The ride is interactive as you can adjust the speed, and includes a 360-degree helix and vertical drop. You will need to book a time slot online. Not only do you experience the thrill of the ride, but you also get to see the gorgeous views of the Pentland Hills and, if you’ve got time, can even hike after too!
Dog/Cat Cafes
Chihuahua Cafe
Location: 15 Frederick Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2EY
Maison de Moggy
Location: 17-19 West Port, Edinburgh, EH1 2JA
Especially for the animal lovers, Edinburgh has a chihuahua cafe as well as a cat cafe! You get to pet, cuddle and play with the dogs/cats, combined with the joy of enjoying a sweet treat or drink. Being with the dogs/cats can reduce stress and add extra spirit to your day by meeting their different personalities. I’d recommend making a reservation online to guarantee a slot as well!
Bowling
Location: Lane 7,02B St James Square Floor 4, Edinburgh, EH1 3AD
Shoot your try at bowling at Lane 7, which also offers other games such as mini golf, darts, arcades, and more! With a graffiti neon-style aesthetic, the activities here can be enjoyed for any (or no) occasion. For someone who is not very good at bowling, I love to play…, and Lane 7 is always a great shout!
Have fun!
I hope these activities spark excitement for you and show that there are so many different things you can do in Edinburgh. Whether it be a solo or group day, weather-dependent, or for whatever occasion, you can trust Edinburgh to have something you will love!
