Potobello, Edinburgh's Seaside

Portobello Beach, Edinburgh, Scotland

Going to the beach might be the last thing you think of when visiting Edinburgh, but that's just what we did when we were there in November. Granted, it was too cold for a swim (in the 50's), but a few hearty souls in wetsuits were out on paddleboards.

Portobello was a popular resort in the late 1800's. People flocked to the water and strolled along the promenade and visited the shops, restaurants and arcades. Today, the only echo of that era is Tower Amusements, a delightfully tacky gameroom and arcade.

Portobello promenade, Edinburgh, Scotland

 Being November and with a chilly wind, there wasn't much activity on the beach. A dad flying a kite with his kid and some locals walking their dogs, but in the summer, I'm told, it can get crowded.

Luckily, its easy to get to Portobello from the city center via the number 26 bus (there's no train service).

Portobello Beach, Edinburgh, Scotloand

 We stopped for a vegan hot chocolate (made with almond milk) and chatted with the young Greek proprietors who told us how much they liked living in Portobello.

Portobello Beach, Edinburgh, Scotland

 Lots of people bring their dogs for a walk on the beach. This guy dug himself a hole to relax in. When he finished digging, he barked and barked and barked to let anyone within earshot know about the great job he had done.

Portobello Beach, Edinburgh, Scotland

 If you go to Portobello, don't miss the cute town. Just a block up from the beach, there's a bunch of shops and restaurants. Portobello has a local-centric attitude which means that you'll see lots of eclectic mom and pop shops. We bought some lovely handmade Christmas cards to send to our family from a stationary store.

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