Hello everyone, we’re coming to the end of the semester which is also the time for exams. I can’t believe how fast this semester has flown by and so many things have happened. Due to the Omicron variant, our exams have been changed to an online but closed-book format. A lot of my friends are international students that will be heading home over Christmas, but I’ll be staying here in Edinburgh due to quarantine restrictions back home. However, I’ll be completing my equine EMS over winter break so I’m looking forward to that 🙂
Today’s post is about my favourite places around Edinburgh. Vet school is incredibly tough and demanding, but I find it really important to make time for myself outside of academics. I hope this post inspires you to prioritise self-care and you enjoy these photos of Edinburgh and some cute animals on EMS.
- Pentland Hills Regional Park: my absolute favourite! I love how remote these hills feel although they’re relatively close to the city. My favourite circuit is the 5 peaks that take you over the main ridge (Turnhouse, Carnethy, Scald Laws, East Kip, West Kip). I also like going to Allermuir, which is near Swanston Farm and where you can find the Highland coos.
- Holyrood Park: Arthur’s Seat, Salisbury Crags, and the lochs. Always a good spot to see the sunrise or sunset. The lochs are especially gorgeous in the snow.
- Royal Botanical Gardens: the Christmas Light Show is definitely worth a visit. Tickets to the gardens are also free!
- Blackford Hill and Hermitage of Braid: easy walks to clear your mind and get some fresh air.
- Markets: Leith, Stockbridge, Castle Terrace, Grassmarket… I love going to weekend markets to support local suppliers and artists. The Pitt Market also has amazing street food.
- Cramond Island: a small island that you can walk across to at low tide. It was part of the WWI defense in the Firth of Forth, so you can still see the remains of the military constructions on the island
- North Berwick & Isle of May: North Berwick is only a short train ride away and boat trips to the Isle of May often depart from there. Unfortunately, when I visited in September, the puffins were all gone, but we did see lots of seals and gannets at Bass Rock. This just means I’ll have to return in June which is peak puffin season!
- Dean Village and Circus Lane: very popular places on Instagram and for good reason! Dean Village is a quiet and beautiful spot by the Water of Leith. The shops at Circus Lane are decorated with colourful hanging pots and floral displays.
- The Shore at Leith: lots of good food and a different vibe compared to other parts of Edinburgh.
- Princes Street Gardens: you get an iconic view of the castle from here and it’s a nice break from the hustle and bustle of Princes Street.
Thank you for reading my blogs in the past semester! I hope they gave you insight into what it’s like to study veterinary medicine in Edinburgh 🙂
-Hoyee
