About Edinburgh Airport
Edinburgh airport is located around six miles west of the center of the city. Receiving around 15 million passengers per year, it is the busiest airport in Scotland and one of the top 10 busiest in the United Kingdom.
The airport began its life as an air defense base in World War I. At that time, it was little more than a grass strip and a few hangars to house primitive planes. But during World War II, the runway was paved to accommodate the legendary Spitfire fighter planes used in the Battle of Britain.
After the war, the airport switched to civilian air services, beginning with passenger flights to London. In the early ‘60s, the first international flights began with a route to Dublin. Over the years, the airport has been expanded again and again to accommodate passenger demand. Nowadays, it's estimated that the airport contributes around 1 billion pounds to the Scottish economy.
Although Edinburgh Airport lies outside the city itself, it's easy to reach via public transit links. Once you arrive at the airport, you will soon find yourself in the heart of this fascinating city, ready to explore it for yourself.
Things to do near Edinburgh Airport
The location of Edinburgh airport outside the city means it’s not immediately convenient for enjoying everything the city has to offer. Most visitors take a cab or catch a tram straight to the city to begin their exploration. However, the area around the airport itself does have some hidden gems when it comes to things to do. For instance, you could:
- Get in a round at Turnhouse golf course. Scotland is the historic and spiritual home of the game of golf, and so it's no surprise to find the country is home to some of the world's most spectacular courses. While Turnhouse may not have the cachet of St. Andrews, it is an enjoyable course that's right by the airport.
- Take in some fresh air at the Cammo estate. This atmospheric ruined manor house with its iconic tower and expansive grounds is now a city park. It makes a perfect place to stretch your legs and relax. Take some time out for yourself at this low-key recreation area.
- Step back in time at Lauriston Castle. Edinburgh isn’t short of castles, but this 16th-century house often slips below the radar of most visitors. The expansive gardens alone are worth the visit, providing the perfect place to look out over the Firth of Forth and the surrounding mountains. Plus, like many Scottish castles, Lauriston is reputed to be haunted, so keep your eyes peeled for ghostly residents.
- Take a walk on the wild side at Edinburgh Zoo. This zoo is one of the premier institutions of its type in the United Kingdom and is home to a wide variety of animals, including the country's only koalas. Lions, gorillas, pandas, reptiles, and other animals also keep visitors entertained.
- Explore an often-forgotten chapter of Scottish history at Cramond Roman Fort. Although the Romans never fully subjugated Scotland, they did make several expeditions into the country, establishing fortifications like this one near Edinburgh. Established around 140 A.D., the remains of the fort can still be seen and visited on the north side of the city.
Transit options near Edinburgh Airport
- The airport is linked to the center of Edinburgh by the Airlink 100 shuttle bus. The bus stops at South Saint David Street, close to Edinburgh Waverley train station.
- A tram line runs from St. Andrew Square in the heart of Edinburgh directly to the airport.
- Edinburgh Gateway train station is a short walk from the airport, and trains run from here into the heart of Edinburgh as well as to other Scottish cities.
Luggage storage near Edinburgh Airport
Edinburgh airport can be a busy place, especially during the summer tourist season, or when the legendary Fringe Festival is on. You'll have a much easier time getting to and from the city if you're not carrying more baggage than you need to. Track down a Bounce luggage storage location near Edinburgh airport and drop off any bags you don't need. You can store any size bags for as little or as much time as you like. Relax knowing that your possessions are secure while you enjoy your trip.
Attractions and activities near Edinburgh Airport
- Edinburgh Castle: Edinburgh Castle is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Set on top of an extinct volcano, this forbidding fortification dominates the city skyline. It's also the perfect place to learn more about the history of Edinburgh and Scotland. The on-site museum explains the castle's significance, and tours help you get a better understanding of the story of Edinburgh. Large bags are not permitted in the museum, so make sure you store them at a convenient luggage storage shop before you visit.
- Royal Mile: Running from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, this quaint cobblestone street is home to historic attractions, eclectic stores, and an endless variety of bars, restaurants, and pubs.
- Arthur’s Seat: Stretch your legs and take in the view at Arthur’s Seat. This mountain overlooks the city and provides a perfect place for hiking and sightseeing away from the busyness of the city below. Make your trip easier on yourself by dropping off any large bags at a luggage storage in Edinburgh, then hit the trails and enjoy the rugged scenery that lies just outside the city.
