Open doors in Edinburgh

People renting accommodation in Edinburgh know about its famous landmarks – Edinburgh Castle, the royal Mile, Mary King’s Close and more. Alongside the city’s arts program, they ensure the city is buzzing with visitors all year round. But did you know that, for a short time each year, the Doors Open Days program allows visitors access to places of interest not normally open to the public?

Similar to the Heritage Days program that operates south of the border, Doors Open allows visitors the opportunity to “explore some of Edinburgh’s most architecturally, culturally and socially significant buildings,” entirely for free (charity donations welcome). Visitors have the opportunity to walk around stately homes, gardens, observatories, private collections and other attractions that are either not open to the public, or only accessible for a fee. We at Serviced City Pads provide serviced apartments across Edinburgh that are located within some of the main attractions’ areas.

Edinburgh is one of a number of cities across Scotland and Europe with a Doors Open Day program. Jointly organised by the Cockburn Association (the city’s civic trust) and Edinburgh Trams, properties in 2009 included heritage landmarks, civic sites, castles, museums, gardens and follies.  Participating venues included St Andrew’s House (home of the Scottish government), 19th century Drumsheugh Baths (home of the oldest swimming club in Edinburgh), Lauriston Castle and the Nelson monument. All venues had behind the scenes tours, exhibitions, talks and activities – many of them aimed at children.

A stay in one of our luxury serviced apartments in Edinburgh is a must for families. For the ultimate cultural experience, we at Serviced City Pads strongly recommend you download the Doors Open brochure (due out in August) and book one of our Edinburgh serviced apartments this autumn.