School of Social & Political Sciences

During my first semester, my busy schedule left me with little time to explore the stunning beauty of Scotland. However, the winter break offered me the perfect opportunity to step out of my routine and discover this breathtaking part of the United Kingdom. The winter season is a magical time in Scotland, the cities and towns are transformed into winter wonderlands with sparkling lights, rich traditions and warm hospitality. In this blog, I’ll share my own adventures exploring the beautiful cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow during the winter breaks. As a student living in Scotland, I wanted to make the most of my holidays, and I hope my experiences help inspire your own travels within Scotland.

Edinburgh

Studying and living in Glasgow I always wanted to visit Edinburgh one of the most visited cities in Europe. For me there was no better time than winter breaks to explore Edinburgh. Packing my essentials a warm jacket, gloves, and, of course, my camera I headed to Buchanan Bus Station early in the morning. From there I took the Mega Bus, which costed me just £10 for a round trip. Upon arriving in Edinburgh, I made my way to Victoria Street, one of the most picturesque locations in Edinburgh. The street, with its beautifully painted shops in shades of blue, red, and yellow, looked straight out of a fairy tale. I took my time browsing the quirky cafes, boutiques and bookshops, stopping to admire the charming displays of souvenirs and Scottish crafts.

Next, I made my way up Calton Hill, one of the best viewpoints in the city. The cold air felt refreshing as I climbed toward the National Monument of Scotland, often called Scotland’s Disgrace because it was left unfinished. Despite this, its towering columns looked striking against the cloudy sky, giving off a Greek Parthenon vibe. Just a short walk away was the Nelson Monument, dedicated to Admiral Lord Nelson. By midday, the chilly breeze had left me craving a warm meal, so I made my way to the Royal Mile, the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

After having the lunch, I went to my final spot for the day. The highlight of my trip was, without a doubt, Edinburgh Castle. I had planned this visit a month in advance and booked my ticket then to avoid last-minute hassles. A standard admission ticket costs at least £19.50, but thanks to my Young Scot Card (for under 25s), I managed to get a guided tour for just £4.50. Choosing a standard ticket (no guided tour) will cost you only £1 if you have a Young Scot Card. So, I highly recommend applying for it as it will give you many benefits all over the Scotland.

Stepping through the grand entrance of the castle felt like stepping back in time. The castle is more than just a single building; it’s a complex of historic sites connected by winding stone paths and grand courtyards. One of the first places I explored with the tour was St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh, dating back to the 12th century. The tour then led me to the Prisoner of War Vaults, a dark underground space where prisoners from various wars like American Revolution and Napoleonic Wars.As I reached Mons Meg, the castle’s famous 15th-century cannon, I was greeted with an unparalleled view of Edinburgh.

A visit to Edinburgh Castle would be incomplete without seeing Scotland’s Crown Jewels. It was in the Crown Room, heavily guarded and photos were not allowed due to its immense historical significance. The Crown Jewels consisting of a crown, sword, and scepter are among the oldest in Europe and have been used in Scottish coronation ceremonies for centuries. Edinburgh Castle is more than just a tourist attraction it’s a living testament to Scotland’s rich history. From its royal connections to its military past, every corner of the castle tells a story. As I boarded the bus back to Glasgow, I couldn’t help but reflect on what a fantastic day it had been.

Glasgow

Winter in Glasgow is a special time. The city is colder, but that doesn't stop it from being full of life and adventure. As a social sciences student, I wanted to explore Glasgow's historic and cultural landmarks, and with a First Bus day-ticket costing £4.70, I was able to visit severla incredible places. My journey began at George Square, one of the most famous spots in Glasgow. Located in the city centre, it's surrounded by stunning architecture and is a great place to start exploring. Even in winter, the square is lively, with people rushing by, pigeons fluttering around, and the statues of important Scottish figures standing tall.

From George Square, I hopped on a bus to Glasgow Cathedral, which is the oldest cathedral in Scotland. The cathedral's peaceful atmosphere made it a perfect place to take a break and soak in the history. Just behind the cathedral is Glasgow Necropolis, a Victoriam cemetery built on a hill. While it may sound unusual to visit a cemetery, it's one of the best places to get a panoramic view of the city. After a short uphill walk, I reached the top and was amazed by the beautiful view of Glasgow. On another day using Glasgow Subway back in the city centre, I visited Glasgow City Chambers, an impressive building that looks like something from a palace. What's even better is that you can book a free guided tour inside. The tour took me through grand rooms, marble staircases, and beautiful halls where important city decisions are made. I also stopped by the Gallery of Modern Art, located near George Square. Outside the gallery, theirs is a famous Duke of Wellington statue, which always has a traffic cone on its head, a funny Glasgow tradition. Inside the gallery I enjoyed the contemporary art that challenges perspectives and sparks creativity. 

 After the winter break as I returned to my studies for second semester, I carried with me not just memories but a deeper appreciation for Scotland. So, if you ever find yourself in Glasgow during the winter breaks, don't let the cold keep you indoors go out and explore. 

Photos: Shadab Ali Mian

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First published: 5 February 2025