Native Edinburgh

The Times

How to spend your half term in our Native cities

As the half term approaches, it’s the perfect opportunity to embark on exciting family adventures right in our Native cities. Forget about superheroes – your family is about to conquer giants, uncover treasures, and channel their inner Picassos! Join us as we explore exciting activities just a short walk away from our Native locations.

The Font: Defy gravity with Ninja Rock Climbing!

Location: 15-minute walk from Native Kings Wardrobe

Calling all aspiring superheroes! At The Font, gear up for an indoor bouldering experience that will put your spidey senses and ninja rock-climbing skills to the test. Guided by experts, you and your family will conquer giants and show gravity who’s boss. Get ready for an adventure that promises to be both challenging and exhilarating!

Treasure Hunt Trail: Discover Edinburgh’s secrets!

Location: 13-minute walk from Native Edinburgh

Embark on a time-travelling adventure on the Royal Mile with the Treasure Hunt Trail. Let the kids explore Edinburgh at their own pace as they uncover history, hidden gems, and clues leading to Hepburn’s treasure trove. Who knows, your family might just unearth some actual treasure, making this an unforgettable experience for all.

Splatter Art Studio: Unleash your inner Picasso!

Location: 15-minute walk from Native Glasgow

Get ready to get messy and unleash your creativity at Splatter Art Studio. Channel your inner Picasso alongside the little ones as you let your imagination run wild. The result? Amazing masterpieces that deserve a prime spot on the family fridge. It’s the perfect opportunity for quality family time with a creative twist.

Treetop Golf: a colourful Mini Golf Adventure!

Location: 15-minute walk from Native Manchester

For a more relaxed day with the kids, Treetop Golf has got you covered. Experience the vibrant, Amazon-inspired atmosphere on their two 18-hole mini golf courses. It’s the ideal way to unwind and enjoy a slower pace with the family.

Staying with Native during the half term isn’t just accommodation; it’s an invitation to create unforgettable memories with your little rascals. From defying gravity to discovering hidden treasures, let your family’s adventure unfold right in the heart of your Native city. Let’s dive into the spirit of exploration, creativity, and togetherness – because the best memories are made when you stay with Native.

Looking to discover Scotland? Our newly refurbished rooms at Native Glasgow brings fresh design to our building in the heart of the city.
Native Places will return to Edinburgh soon. This city still has stories to unlock.

Live Like A Local: Uncovering Edinburgh

Edinburgh, a city steeped in history and breathtaking architecture, offers more than just the iconic landmarks. To truly experience the soul of Scotland’s capital, immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the independent spots that make Edinburgh unique. From bustling food markets to secret local hangouts, let us take you on a journey to live like a local in this gorgeous city.

The Marketplace

Stockbridge Market:

Nestled in the charming Stockbridge neighbourhood, Stockbridge Market is a food lover’s heaven. Held every Sunday, this bustling market showcases an array of local produce and delectable street food. Join locals as they sample the stalls, enjoying freshly baked pastries to gourmet cheeses. The vibrant atmosphere makes Stockbridge market a true reflection of Edinburgh’s culinary scene.

Edinburgh Farmers’ Market:

For a taste of the freshest local produce, head to the Edinburgh farmers’ market. Located near the Castle Terrace, this market is a celebration of Scotland’s rich agricultural heritage. From organic fruits and vegetables to handmade cheeses and artisanal meats, you’ll find a delightful array of local produce to bring back to your apartment.

The Local Spot

Bramble Bar:

Hidden in plain sight on Queen Street, Bramble Bar is a favourite among locals in the know. Step inside this cocktail bar and discover a cosy, dimly lit space with quirky vintage decor. The expert mixologists at Bramble are known for crafting inventive and expertly balanced cocktails. Rub shoulders with the locals as they unwind in this intimate setting.

The Royal Dick Bar at Summerhall:

Venture beyond the tourist trail to Summerhall, Edinburgh’s arts venue and cultural hub. Tucked away in this former veterinary school, The Royal Dick Bar exudes a laid-back and casual atmosphere. Locals frequent this spot to be entertained by eclectic events and craft beers. Immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s creative community as you mingle with artists, musicians, and other like-minded individuals in this vibrant space.

Go A Little Further

Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park:

Escape the city buzz by exploring the natural beauty of Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park. Just a short stroll from the city centre, this ancient volcano offers panoramic views of Edinburgh and the surrounding landscapes. Whether you hike to the summit or enjoy a leisurely walk around the park, you’ll be captivated by the tranquillity and scenic wonders that lie just beyond Edinburgh’s historic streets.

Pentland Hills Regional Park:

For a breath of fresh air and a taste of rural Scotland, venture to Pentland Hills Regional Park. Easily accessible from Edinburgh, this expansive park boasts rolling hills, serene reservoirs, and picturesque walking trails. Locals escape to Pentland Hills for outdoor activities, picnics, and moments of serenity amidst the natural beauty that surrounds the city.

Big N Small

Armstrong’s Vintage Emporium:

Embark on a shopping adventure at Armstrong’s Vintage Emporium in the Grassmarket. This quirky store is a treasure trove of vintage clothing, accessories, and curiosities. Dive into the racks of unique finds and connect with Edinburgh’s thrifting crowd.

The Biscuit Factory:

Take a moment out of the hustle and haste of the city and visit the Biscuit Factory in Leith. This independent gallery and studio space showcases contemporary art from both local and international artists. Explore and discover the exhibitions and unique pieces, and engage with Edinburgh’s thriving artistic community.

By living like a local, you’ll uncover the city’s hidden gems and forge a deeper connection with the spirit of Edinburgh. Whether indulging in culinary delights, discovering secret local spots, immersing yourself in nature, or supporting independent businesses, Edinburgh has a maze of experiences waiting for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

The UK’s best Pride festivals: 2021

Pride Glasgow
Date TBC

Scotland’s largest LGBTQI+ festival returns, with an incredible Pride Parade, a two-day music festival and plenty of sexy Scots in kilts. Last time saw over 13,000 revellers flood the streets with joy and colour, and this year’s set to be even bigger. Pride Glasgow is still taking volunteer applications, and more details are being confirmed soon.

Find out more

Edinburgh
Date TBC

Pride Edinburgh regularly draws more than 15,000 people to the capital, so this year they’re putting safety first with an online festival. Details are still being confirmed, but there’s plenty to do in the city without joining a crowd of thousands.

Edinburgh’s most popular gay bars are near the city centre, at the north end of Leith Street and Broughton Street. It’s known locally as the Pink Triangle and is full of great restaurants and bars. Try The Street for a buzzy, laid back dinner-and-drinks atmosphere, and Street NightClub downstairs comes alive after dark once you’re ready to storm the dancefloor.

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How to spend Summer in Glasgow and Edinburgh

We all know Scotland is world famous for its beauty, culture and architecture, but it’s the locals that really know how to make the most of the summer there. From magical woodland creatures to wild swimming and outdoor theatre, we’re spoilt for choice all around Native Glasgow and Native Edinburgh.

Here are just a few of our favourite summer must-dos.

Summer in Edinburgh

Find The Reekie Beastie

Hunt down the real Edinburgh in an escape-room-meets-walking-tour-meets-treasure-hunt. Get a team together, register with Search Party and explore the streets of Edinburgh. You’ll learn about some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, track down clues, solve puzzles and play games to complete the mission and find Edinburgh’s missing spirit animal – The Reekie Beastie.

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Hit the beach

Portobello Beach is just a 30 minute bus ride from your apartment but feels like a world away. It’s a much loved escape for Edinburgh natives and visitors alike and on a sunny day the beach is full of sun bathers, wild swimmers, dog walkers and nature lovers. There are also cute little cafés on the promenade and traditional seaside amusements. If you can, bag one of the air hockey tables and challenge your new neighbours to a game.

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Take to the water

Just a 15 minute drive from your apartment, the Water of Leith Walkway passes through through some of the prettiest parts of the city. You’ll see Colinton Village and Dell, the Union Canal, Saughton Winter Gardens, the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art, Dean Village, Stockbridge and Leith. Ideal for a family walk or a solo stroll, it’s also great for cycling, wheelchairs and even horse riding, if you’re so inclined. Keep a look out for roe deer, badgers and foxes, too.

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Summer in Glasgow

A summer’s tale

Every year, the beautiful Botanical Gardens in Glasgow come alive with theatre. This year’s Bard in the Botanics season will bring Twelfth Night and The Winter’s Tale to their outdoor stage, with a socially distanced audience and plenty of magic amidst the rare plants and lush trees.

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Follow the faeries

Take a swift 40 minute drive to Loch Lomond and spend a day exploring one of the most beautiful places in the UK, following the award winning Faerie Trail. Here you’ll find a huge woodland full of faeries, trolls and unicorns, as well as stunning views and great food nearby. Try and snap up a table at Luss Fish & Chip Co – the perfect reward for all your faerie finding efforts.

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Southside scran

Summer vibes call for street food, and lots of it. Big Feed is a weekly, family-friendly street food market on the Southside of Glasgow’s famous “Squinty Bridge”. There’s delicious food, live music and DJs, games for the kids and plenty of outdoor seating. Come hungry or decisive – you might have trouble choosing between a Firedog hot dog, aromatic roasted duck fries or triple chocolate churros.

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Book your summer sojourn in Scotland