Edinburgh City GuideThere is some uncertainty about the early history of Edinburgh, many of the records having been lost in early invasions. However, Scotland's capital is believed to have taken its name from Edwin of Deira, who fortified the castle rock around 617AD.
Town: With its stunning Georgian and Victorian architecture, and winding medieval streets, it's easy to see why Edinburgh has been listed as a World Heritage Site.
Edinburgh Castle dominates the urban skyline, perched atop the crags of an ancient volcano right in the centre of the city.
Yet Edinburgh is not stuck in the past. And neither is it all about bagpipes, shortbread, whisky and tartan.
The capital is bustling with arts, culture, sports and attractions and is famous for playing host to the world's largest arts festival.
After dark Edinburgh has a lively nightlife with stylish bars and pubs, restaurants, clubs and live entertainment to rival any European city.
There's plenty of open space too, with a large number of public parks and green spaces right in the busy city centre.
For active types, there's an extensive and varied choice of activities and sports in Edinburgh and the surrounding area. Or if you just want to exercise your wallet, the capital is a great place to shop. This is a city that knows how to be both ancient and modern.
Tourist Attractions:There always seems to be some kind of festival underway in Edinburgh. However, the main ones are Edinburgh's Hogmanay at New Year and the International Festival in August, which World Cup visitors will unfortunately miss. Other sites include:-
Edinburgh Castle: A must see for every visitor. It has a fascinating history, but what makes it really special are the views in every direction.
The Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre: An attraction that aims to bring 300 years of Scotch Whisky history to life. This interactive visitor attraction, allows you to experience whisky sights, sounds and smells, and gives the opportunity to discover how whisky is made. - www.whisky-heritage.co.uk
Edinburgh Dungeon: Witch-hunters, grave-robbers, murderers, cannibals, executioners - you will find them all here, along with their wretched victims. - www.thedungeons.com
Our Dynamic Earth: An interactive visitor centre taking you on a thrilling journey back in time to learn about our planet Earth. - www.dynamicearth.co.uk
Elsewhere in the city you can visit treats like the Royal Yacht Britannia in Leith and The Royal Botanic Gardens.
Post-match hostelries:
There's plenty of post-match goings-on that should cater for all tastes.
The Sportsters Bar. 1a Market Edinburgh. EH1 1DE
Tel: +44 (0)131 226 9560
A sports haven - Not only can you watch the sports channels, you can also access the Internet, or even play games on a PlayStation 2.
Walkabout. Omni. Unit 7. Greenside Place
Tel: +44 (0)131 524 9300
Part of a large Australian chain, this pub is separated in two with a quieter area to have a chat, and the other includes large TV screens to watch other Rugby World Cup fixtures.
The Filling Station. 233-241 High Street. EH1 1PE
Tel: +44 (0)131 226 2488
Very popular with the tourists, this American-style bar/restaurant serves Mexican, pizzas, burgers etc and boasts an outside eating area.
TGI Friday's. 22-26 Castle Street. EH2 3HT
Tel: +44 (0)131 226 6543
Great atmosphere with a pleasing menu that offers typical American food that is reasonably priced.
The Barony. 81-85 Broughton Street. EH1 3RJ
Tel: +44 (0)131 557 0546
This traditional Edinburgh pub has an open fire and serves good, warm food. You can also sample a range of traditional ales and whiskies.
Accommodation:
Luxury:
The Balmoral Hotel. 1 Princes Street. EH2 2EQ
Tel: +44 (8704) 607040
The Royal Terrace Hotel. 18 - 22 Royal Terrace. EH7 5AQ
Tel: +44 (131) 5245104
Apex European Hotel. 90 Haymarket Terrace. EH12 5LQ
Tel: +44 (8456) 083456
Tel: +44 (131) 3331845
Budget Hotels:
Thrums Hotel. 14-15 Minto Street. EH9 1RQ
Tel: +44 (131) 6675545
Aonach Mor Guest House. 14 Kilmaurs Terrace. EH16 5DR
Tel: +44 (131) 6678694
Mackenzie Guest House. 2 East Hermitage Place. EH6 8AA
Tel: +44 (131) 554 3763
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA - 29 OCTOBER: Percy Montgomery and his wife Tamsin celebrate South Africa... 
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