As Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh has a long history of trading, academic and cultural links with Europe and beyond, and draws many visitors each year attracted by its art, architecture and quality of life. The city centre is designated by UNESCO as a world heritage site in respect of both the medieval Old Town (extending down from the dramatic castle rock) and the 18 th century New Town (the largest area of Georgian architecture in Europe). The contrast between these two historic areas, each containing many buildings of architectural importance, gives the city its unique character and beauty.

Reminders of over four centuries of medical history can also be found throughout Edinburgh.The 17 th century saw standard setting in medicine and surgery by the royal colleges and, in the 18 th century medical school, bedside teaching revolutionised medical education. In the 19 th century the city was home to pioneering work by James Syme (surgery), James Young Simpson (chloroform), and Henry Littlejohn (public health). Sir Stanley Davidson (medical education) and Sir John Crofton (tuberculosis) continued the tradition in the 20 th century.

As the host (annually in August) to the largest arts festival in the world, Edinburgh has a vibrant cultural life that can be enjoyed throughout the year in its concert halls, theatres, cinemas and galleries.These are based in a thriving, friendly community with an excellent selection of shops, restaurants, bistros, pubs and clubs. For those interested in more active pursuits, there is an excellent choice of golf courses in Edinburgh and the surrounding country, walks in the Pentland Hills begin at the edge of the city centre and, further afield, lie the spectacular mountains and glens of the Scottish Highlands. In short, Edinburgh and Scotland have something to offer every visitor.

How to reach Edinburgh
Edinburgh is at the heart of Scotland and easy to reach by air, rail and road.

Access by Air
Edinburgh Airport which is 12 km west of the city centre, is served by major airlines to a host of destinations in Europe. There are over 25 return flights each day to London plus regular services to other areas in the UK.

Access by Rail
The Great North Eastern railway line which links Edinburgh with London is the fastest inter-city railway in Britain, taking just over 4 hours to arrive at Waverley Station in the centre of Edinburgh. Scot rail and Virgin lines link the city with northern and western Britain. For further information on UK rail services and fares contact National Rail Enquiries www.scotrail.co.uk or www.raileurope.com.

Access by Road
Edinburgh is at the hub of the Scottish motorway network and the national coach station connects the city centre to the rest of Britain and beyond.The continental ferry ports of Newcastle and Hull and the Irish ferry terminals at Stranraer and Cairnryan are linked to Edinburgh by fast, safe and scenic roads.

Edinburgh Airport to the City Centre
The cheapest route between Edinburgh Airport and the city centre (Waveley Bridge) is via the Airlink frequent express shutle. Fares £3.30 single, £5.-open return.
A taxi from the airport to the city centre costs approx. £13.- It takes approx.
25 minutes from the airport to the city centre.

Currency of Scotland
Sterling is the currency with units in pounds and pence. Scottish banks issue their own notes which are normally accepted in the rest of Britain, with the exception of the £1 note. Bank of England and Northern Ireland bank notes are legal tender in Scotland.

Climate
Although Scotland is generally cloudier and cooler than England, mean daily sunshine figures reach a maximum in May and June with temperatures in May between 10º C and 15º C. In addition, the relatively high latitude results in long daylight hours in late spring and summer with an extended twilight. Although rain can be expected at any time in Scotland, May and June are the driest months.

Forth Rail Bridge / South Queensferry