Edinburgh Itineraries

"The museum café offers high chairs and staff are used to families — tell them about allergies; they can usually adapt simple items (ask for ingredient lists).Sit near the windows where there's more room for a stroller to be parked without blocking aisles.Use this stop as a buffer: nap-ready toddlers often drift off after the warm drink; follow the sign to the family toilets if you need to change or feed."

"Accessibility: mostly level pavements in Stockbridge; avoid cobbled side lanes if balance is a concern—stick to main pavements like Hamilton Place and Raeburn Place.Seating & warmth: there are benches near the Water of Leith and several cafés if you need a warm pause—plan to sit every 10–15 minutes if desired.Insider: Circus Lane is lovely for photos but is cobbled and narrow—view it from the pavement rather than walking the cobbles if mobility is limited."

"Request a corner table with natural light if available; ask the staff for permission to sketch unobtrusively while you dine.The menu changes seasonally — use dishes as still-life references and photograph plating for colour studies.Reserve in advance (December is busy) and ask about quieter seating for an artist group or to lay out small works to dry briefly."

"Ask for a bar stool — the bartender loves talking whisky and can recommend local pours and ceilidh nights in town.If busy, ask staff to seat you where other solo diners sit; bar stools are rotated quickly so you won’t be stuck alone.Check coat storage options early in winter evenings so you don’t juggle thick winter layers while ordering."

"Reserve a table in advance and mention you’re a group of 4–6 to get a comfortable spot — Dishoom fills up fast in summer.Order a few small dishes to share (like house black daal, chaat, and biryani) so everyone samples the menu without individual bills being complicated.Ask staff about splitting the bill — they’re used to group payments and can help divide or take separate cards at checkout."

"Reserve a communal table and mention you're solo — restaurants with shared seating will often seat you next to friendly groups.Choose a place with late service and quick access to your chosen Hogmanay meeting point so you aren't rushed between dining and midnight events.Bring a printed booking confirmation and a small cash buffer for tips — it speeds things up on busy nights."

"Book in advance and ask for a corner or window table for more privacy and twinkling lights if the venue has seasonal decorations.Timberyard focuses on seasonal produce — tell the staff if you'd like a tasting-style meal to share.December menus can be busier with festive dishes; mention any dietary preferences ahead of time for a smoother, romantic meal."

"Order light, layered dishes to study colour combinations and textures for later still-life reference.Use café napkins as emergency blotting paper for small ink studies in a pinch.Ask staff about quieter tables near windows for natural light to do quick pen sketches post-lunch."

"Accessibility: Camera Obscura has lift access to most levels and the rooftop viewpoint; staff can assist with mobility needs—ask at reception for step-free routing.Pacing: spend 60–75 minutes; exhibits are indoor and heated—good for a winter day. Take the rooftop view first for clear daylight photos before the exhibits.Noise/light sensitivity: some illusions are bright or noisy—sit in the lobby benches between exhibits to rest if overwhelmed."