There are many places of natural and cultural interest to visit in and around Edinburgh while you are studying at ECS Scotland. You can easily experience the culture and natural beauty of Scotland with day and weekend trips from Edinburgh.
Explore Edinburgh with ECS Scotland
At ECS Scotland, learning doesn’t stop when the lesson ends.
We offer regular Walk & Talk trips — relaxed, teacher-led outings around Edinburgh that give you a chance to practise English in real situations, meet other students and enjoy the city’s unique atmosphere.
These short walking trips happen once or twice a week after class and are included in the course price. There’s a flexible programme of places to visit and activities to do — with friendly, informal opportunities to speak English, explore the local area and discover some hidden gems.
What do Walk & Talk trips include?
Each trip is different, but recent activities have included:
- Visiting a local gallery or museum with your teacher
- Exploring quiet corners of the New Town
- Discovering Edinburgh’s green spaces and viewpoints
- Having a tea or coffee and practising conversation skills
- Chatting to locals in a real Scottish pubs (not the touristy kind)
“We went to a real local pub, not one full of tourists. I got to speak to local people and try local beers — it was a very authentic experience and I enjoyed it very much.”
— Kristof, Germany
These informal outings are a great way to get to know your classmates, your teachers and Edinburgh itself — all while improving your English in a natural, enjoyable setting.
Edinburgh: A city to explore on foot
Scotland’s capital is compact, cultural and full of surprises. From cobbled streets to coastal walks, there’s always something new to discover.
- The Old and New Towns are UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Many museums and galleries are free to enter
- You can walk almost anywhere from the school
- Calton Hill and Arthur’s Seat offer panoramic views of the city
- Festivals, concerts and cultural events happen year-round
After class, you’ll have time to explore, relax and use your English in meaningful ways — whether you’re browsing a bookshop, chatting to your host family or enjoying the view from a hilltop.
Calton Hill
Want to explore more of Scotland?
While ECS Scotland no longer organises weekend excursions, we’re always happy to help you plan your own adventures.
If you’re staying in Scotland after your course, you might:
- Join a small-group tour to the Highlands or Isle of Skye
- Visit castles, whisky distilleries or fishing villages
- Travel by train through the Borders or along the coast
- Go hiking in Glen Coe or Loch Lomond National Park
Scotland is a small, friendly country full of character — and your English learning journey doesn’t have to end in Edinburgh.
