Why You Should Visit Cramond In Edinburgh

Just a stone’s throw away from the centre of Edinburgh stands a picturesque village that hides a history as rich — and as intriguing — as the rest of Scotland. Impressive silver swathes of sand sparkle on the beach near the elegant sailing boats that bob in harmony with the perpetual motion of the waves. Dozens of charming houses stand proudly along the wharf and offer a prime example of Scottish vernacular architecture. Cramond resembles a far away land that only the wildest of imaginations could conjure up.

The area of Cramond came about in 1920, when it was officially included into Edinburgh by an Act of Parliament. Since that momentous date, this gem of a place has been entwined with all sorts of enticing tales. For years, Cramond has been one of the most desirable places to live and visit due to the fairytale atmosphere and dreamlike setting. From the mouth of the magnificent River Almond, hours can be spent gazing at the sublime sights of the Firth of Forth. When the tides permit, those who have a penchant for exhilarating expeditions can reach the abandoned Cramond Island via the Cramond causeway. There’s nothing more beautiful or soothing than witnessing the stern dancing shadows of the causeway pylons under a muckle Scottish sky at dusk. It’s worth noting that fish and chips make the perfect accompaniment to such a stellar setting.

A great number of archaeological excavations have taken place in Cramond and have resulted in unearthing a myriad of truths from a bygone past. One dig exposed tracings of habitation from approximately 8500 BC — this stunning discovery put Cramond on the map for being one of the earliest uncovered sites of human settlement in Scotland. It’s believed that nomadic hunting-gathering peoples populated this Mesolithic campsite due to the findings of waste pits, stake holes (used for support of shelters), and microlith stone tools.

It wasn’t until about 142AD that Roman forces appeared on the scene — approximately 500 of them — following the order of Emperor Antoninus Pius to set up fort near the river Almond. This six acre fort and harbor were used for around 15 years before the troops gravitated towards Hadrian’s Wall. Artifacts such as pottery and coins prove that the fort was used again as an army and navy base for another Emperor. Perhaps the most exciting finding from the multiple excavations is the Cramond Lioness — a majestic and alluring sandstone statue of a lioness consuming a man. This wondrous work of art is one of the greatest Roman sculptures to have survived time and stayed in Scotland.

Consider Cramond a prime pick for one of those days that deserves an epic adventure. Stroll the quaint streets and imagine the times when it was a Roman fort, explore and examine the intriguing causeway, absorb the pretty fleets of bobbing boats, step foot on silky sands, and wander along the wise River Almond. A trip to this magical place would not be complete without venturing to the waterfront to look for the Cramond Fish. This isn’t just any old fish — it happens to be eight tons of exquisite pink granite carved by the deftly talented Scottish sculptor Ronald Rae. Then again, this isn’t just any old village.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.