Weekend escapes from Edinburgh: discover more of Scotland during your course

Thinking of studying English in Edinburgh for a few weeks?

Make the most of your weekends by exploring beyond the city. From lochside villages to historic castles, Scotland is compact, beautiful and easy to explore by train, bus or car.

Whether you're planning your trip or already packing your bag, this guide will give you fresh ideas for your Saturday–Sunday adventures. You’ll find low-cost escapes, day trips with great rail connections and scenic weekend getaways that start and end in Edinburgh.

You don’t need to book a long holiday to enjoy Scotland. With just two days, you can…

• visit the seaside in North Berwick
• climb a mountain near Stirling
• explore an island like Arran or Bute
• discover whisky distilleries and Highland views in Pitlochry or Dunkeld.

Where to go from Edinburgh: weekend trips by theme

Here are 5 themed escapes you can enjoy during your course at ECS Scotland. All are possible without a car and most have budget-friendly options too.

1. Seaside + seafood: North Berwick or Anstruther

Travel time: 30 mins to 2 hours
Perfect for: sea views, fish and chips, boat trips

Take a train to North Berwick and enjoy the beach, Scottish Seabird Centre or a walk up Berwick Law. Feeling hungry? Try a seafood lunch by the harbour.

Or head to Anstruther on the Fife coast. Famous for its award-winning fish and chip shop, it also has a fascinating fishing museum and quiet coastal walks.

2. Castles + city views: Stirling or Dunfermline

Travel time: 1 hour
Perfect for: history lovers, impressive castles, skyline photos

Stirling Castle was home to Scottish kings and queens and the town is full of character. You can also visit the Wallace Monument or walk up Abbey Craig for a view of the Ochil Hills.

Dunfermline, Scotland’s ancient capital, has a beautiful abbey, parks and a small but lively centre. Great for a relaxed Saturday.

3. Highland atmosphere: Pitlochry or Dunkeld

Travel time: 1.5–2 hours
Perfect for: scenic walks, whisky distilleries, nature

These picturesque Highland towns are easy to reach by train. Pitlochry has a dam, theatre, distilleries and riverside walks. Dunkeld offers forest trails, a riverside cathedral and cosy pubs with local music.

4. Island adventure: Isle of Bute or Arran

Travel time: 2–3 hours
Perfect for: a full weekend escape, dramatic views, slower pace

Take a train and ferry combo to reach these islands. Bute is gentler and ideal for a restful break (plus a Victorian mansion to visit). Arran has hiking, beaches and wildlife and is often called "Scotland in miniature."

5. Walks + waterfalls: The Trossachs or the Pentlands

Travel time: 1–2 hours
Perfect for: hill walks, autumn leaves, nature photos

Explore Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park for dramatic glens and peaceful lochs. Buses go to Balmaha, Callander or Aberfoyle.

Closer to home, the Pentland Hills (south of Edinburgh) offer wonderful short hikes and views across the city and Firth of Forth.

Travel tips for your Scottish weekend

• Book trains in advance with ScotRail for better prices: Train Timetable
• Find out more information about the spirit of Scotland travel pass: Travel Pass
• Use the Traveline Scotland website or app to check all bus and rail options: Plan your journey
• Book the Caledonian MacBrayne (Cal Mac) ferry here: Ferry information
• Pack for all weathers. Scotland can change in an hour so bring layers, waterproofs and good walking shoes. Check the forecast here: Local Weather
• Ask your teacher or the ECS team if you need help planning your weekend trip: Rabbies Tours
• Try using English for real-life tasks like checking timetables, asking for information and buying tickets