You might not be in the mood to leave your place of stay in Morningside for playing casino games. In such a situation, playing online casinos would be the best option. If you’re new to online casinos, you can get to know more about them on casino review sites like Casinos Jungle. Such sites have detailed information on the best online casinos for placing your bets. They also provide valuable information on responsible gambling. 

Gambling is one of the popular activities in the country. Being a part of the United Kingdom, the Gambling Act of 2005 governs commercial gambling in Scotland. It also protects gamblers by ensuring that the activity is conducted fairly and transparently by the establishments. Here are the best gambling establishments you’ll find in the Scottish capital:

1. Genting Casino Leith

Operated by the ‘Genting’ brand, this casino has much to offer than just a few casino games. When you visit this casino in Leith, you’ll be in for many surprises. Besides a decent number of options in gambling, the establishment also has entertainment facilities and a restaurant. A 10-minute drive from the city center would take you to this elegant casino. 

Both members and non-members are allowed access to Genting Casino. You’ll certainly be asked for a valid ID before you enter the premises. It remains open between 12:00 pm and 6:00 am, but live dealer games begin at 2:00 pm. The casino also hosts live entertainment, gaming tournaments, and complimentary buffets.

2. Genting Casino York Place

This is yet another fabulous casino establishment operated by the ‘Genting’ brand. It was formerly known as ‘Maxims Casino’. You’ll find a perfect combination of gambling and dining facilities at this venue. A friendly atmosphere in this casino would make you feel relaxed almost instantly. This casino is located near Queen Street Gardens and can be reached using any of the convenient transport options. 

You might face some inconvenience when it comes to parking. It is, therefore, advisable to use public transport in order to get to this casino. It is open seven days a week from 2:00 pm to 6:00 am. Food and beverages can be enjoyed at the establishment’s restaurant and bar.

3. Genting Club Fountain Park

A latest addition to the ‘Genting’ brand, this casino is located in Fountain Park. This area is in the heart of Edinburgh’s entertainment district. You’ll find a wide range of facilities at this gambling establishment, which keep you entertained for hours. Along with a variety of gambling options, you can enjoy great food and the finest selection of beverages. 

Genting Club also offers free parking for its visitors. The casino remains open every day between 12:00 pm and 6:00 am. It accepts guests between 6:00 pm and 3:00 am. This casino establishment also has facilities for private parties and corporate events. 

5. Grosvenor Casino

Also known as ‘The Maybury’, this casino is yet another attractive gambling establishment in Edinburgh. It is located close to the Edinburgh Airport and also offers world-class entertainment and dining facilities. You have to be over 25 years of age and in a presentable attire to enter this casino. 

Smart casuals are allowed, but not ripped jeans, flip flops, and hats. The restaurant in this casino has an a la carte menu and the food is prepared by celebrity chefs. The bar in this casino offers a perfect environment to take a break from playing casino games.

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You can book with any of the local tour operators who specialize in arranging such activities for tourists. If you’re concerned about your fitness levels, ask your tour operator before going ahead with the booking. You don’t need high levels of fitness to enjoy most of the outdoor activities. Here are some of the adventurous pursuits you can enjoy while touring Edinburgh:

1. Canyoning

This would be one of your best outdoor experiences in this part of the world. You’ll be placed in one of the groups that travel down a steep river gorge. Individuals in the group who are interested in cliff-jumping can enjoy plunging into the freshwater pools from the cliffs. 

This activity is usually offered by the local tour operators as a part of the day trip from Edinburgh. You’ll be taken to parts of Scotland that many only get to admire from distant places. The group would be accompanied by qualified instructors and provided all the technical equipment needed for the activity. 

2. Hiking

You’ll find the world’s most beautiful landscapes in Scotland and Edinburgh certainly has some of them. There are mountainous terrains and coastal trails worth exploring near the city. The best way to enjoy them is to go on guided hiking tours from Edinburgh. Upon booking your tour with one of the local operators, you’ll be accompanied by a qualified mountain leader. 

You’ll be placed in a group of hikers before embarking on the exciting journey through the Scottish uplands. No vehicle would be taken along while hiking to get everyone to focus on the overall experience. You can, of course, take some amazing pictures to capture the memorable moments. 

3. Mountain Biking

There are several trails for mountain biking that are easily accessible from Edinburgh. You can choose your trail according to the desired level of difficulty. These trails can be natural or man-made or a combination of both. On the day of this activity, you’ll be picked up from your place of accommodation. 

Then, you’ll be driven to the trail center. A mountain bike and helmet would be provided along with a detailed brief about the entire day. You can then go mountain biking on some of the best trails near Edinburgh. Don’t forget to take some wonderful snaps on the way with your camera or smartphone!

4. Canoeing

Scotland has captivating remote landscapes, lochs, and rivers that can be explored with a canoe. This light, narrow boat would be ideal for an exciting journey through the Scottish wilderness. Canoeing gives you the opportunity to experience nature at its best. You can book a full-day canoeing trip with any of the local service providers. 

Their representative will pick you up from your place of stay and drive you to the canoeing venue. You’ll be provided with a canoe, paddles, and buoyancy aids for the activity. The skills and techniques needed for the day would also be taught by the instructor. You can then embark on your canoeing adventure through one of the country’s best rivers or lochs.

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During your stay in Morningside you’d certainly want to visit the most popular places nearby. You can take one of the Lothian buses to get to Edinburgh. Once you’re in the Scottish capital, you’ll have many tourist attractions worth exploring. While getting around in Edinburgh, you’ll get a glimpse of the city’s past. 

In the 18th-century New Town, you’ll get to witness the elegant Georgian neighborhoods. When you get to the Old Town, you’ll see hidden passageways, narrow winding lanes, and steep staircases. Besides these two historical places, you’ll get to witness many other attractions in Edinburgh.

1. National Monument of Scotland

The National Monument of Scotland is dedicated to the country’s soldiers and sailors who died in the Napoleonic Wars. It is located on Calton Hill, which offers a panoramic view of the entire Edinburgh city. This monument modeled on the Parthenon of Athens dominates the summit of Calton Hill. 

It was designed by the architects William Henry Playfair and Charles Robert Cockerell. Construction of the monument began in 1826, but was left unfinished in 1829 due to lack of funds. This led to several nicknames being given to it, such as ‘Edinburgh’s Disgrace’ and ‘Scotland’s Folly’. 

Several attempts were made in the following years to complete it, but were unsuccessful. The monument was classified as Category A building in 1966 and underwent repairs in 2008.

2. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Home to over 13,000 different plant species, this is the second oldest garden of its kind in the UK. The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) was founded in 1670 and is spread over 70 acres. While exploring this garden you’ll come across some rare giant trees. They were brought from China, the Himalayas, and North America. 

A herbarium in this botanic garden has a collection of more than three million specimens. Other highlights of this garden include the woodland garden. It has colorful azaleas, camellias, and tropical water plants among the other offerings. If you visit this botanic garden during Christmas, you’ll get to witness some spectacular displays of lights.

3. National Museum of Scotland

One of the most popular attractions of the country, the National Museum of Scotland was opened in 2011. Visiting this museum is one of the best things you can do for free in the Scottish capital. It is visited by more than two million individuals annually. The collections of this museum includes the ones from many of Edinburgh’s older museums. 

Among the highlights are the medieval artifacts, archaeological collections and a variety of displays. Over 8,000 artifacts are displayed in the museum’s 16 galleries. Upon browsing these galleries, you’ll come across the world’s first cloned mammal known as Dolly the sheep. There are two restaurants in this museum and you can also benefit from its guided tours.

4. Holyrood Palace

Also known as ‘Palace of Holyroodhouse’ or simply ‘Holyroodhouse’, this palace is the British monarch’s official residence in Scotland. It is located at the bottom of the Royal Mile. It was constructed in 1678 and has been the center of Scottish history ever since. The Queen spends a week at this palace every summer. 

Portraits of Scottish kings have been displayed in The Great Gallery. As a part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, The Queen’s Gallery was opened in 2002. If you’re travelling with your family, allow your kids to put on the costumes in the Family Room.  

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Many of them never knew certain facts about this part of Scotland. Well, it’s not their fault at all. You’ll need to spend some more time in this Scottish district to know such things. So, here we present some intriguing facts about Morningside:

1. The roller coaster life of Morningside Public Library

The public library of this district has seen many ups and downs. It underwent many repairs and renovation works in its lifetime. The makeover of 2011 was a major one, which cost a million pounds. It made the magnificent Edwardian building look more beautiful. Misfortune struck once again as it was forced to close again after the discovery of dry rot. It was only declared safe for re-opening towards the end of 2013.  

2. Morningside can be a paradise for pizza lovers

If you’re a pizza lover, you’ll be grateful for having visited this amazing Scottish district. There are four pizzerias at less than half a mile of distance from each other on Morningside Road. All of them have been opened quite recently. They include famous chains like Pizza Express, Dominos, and La Favorita. 

If you want more options, you can get in touch with any of the local Italian restaurants. You’ll never be short of pizza in Morningside.

3. You can go to the police box for a coffee

You’ll be astonished to know that the best cup of coffee in Morningside comes from a little police box. It sits right outside Marks and Spencer and is a big hit with locals as well as tourists. The couple behind this coffee shop had started it in a former police box in 2014. If you visit this box between 7:30 am and 3:00 pm, you can enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee.

4. The bank that was once a train station

If you visit the Morningside branch of the Bank of Scotland, try to get some information about its past. Well, now you don’t have to, because we’re letting you know about it. You probably know about the freight line running underneath Morningside Road. This was open from 1884 to 1962. 

The line was used for passenger trains and the Bank of Scotland branch of Morningside was a train station. In the early 1960s, the Edinburgh Suburban Line was discontinued. What remains today is only the Morningside Station entrance.

5. Morningside once had trams running through it

From 1872 to 1956, Morningside was a part of the original tram system of Edinburgh. You can find the remnants of it throughout the suburb even today. In the 1950s, the final tram journey from Morningside Station to Shrubhill depot was witnessed by thousands of locals. This event was also broadcast live on the BBC.

6. The Bore Stane

If you’re a non-Scot, you might’ve never heard about Bore Stane (or Bore Stone). It doesn’t matter how you pronounce it, but what really matters is its importance in Scotland’s history. This enormous ancient rock marked the spot from where King James IV set off for the Battle of Flodden. Later, the stone was built into a wall and a plaque was added above it.

7. The raucous past of The Canny Man

One of the best-known landmarks of the district is The Canny Man’s pub. It is well-known for its Bloody Marys and quirky atmosphere. Opened in 1871 as The Volunteer’s Arms, this pub is an excellent spot to relax and enjoy a few drinks. You’ll be surprised to know that this place was not always this quiet. It was home to some risque entertainment in the 1970s with the presence of go-go dancers throughout the day.

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Among them is the surrounding district of Morningside, which is located to the south-west of Edinburgh. This delightful suburb invites you to uncover some of its delights unknown to many travelers. So, here are certain things you must never miss doing during your time spent in Morningside:

1. Go shopping

You’ll enjoy some unique shopping experiences in Morningside and its surrounding places. One of the shops in this Scottish district offers some quirky items for sale. The name of this shop is ‘The Ugly Duckling’. It has some fascinating stuff for people of all ages. Jewelry, hats, bags, cards, gloves, prints, and ornaments are some of the items you can buy from this shop.

2. Watch a movie at The Dominion Cinema

One of the precious gems of Morningside, this cinema is a favorite among the locals as well as tourists. This is not an ordinary cinema. It has been built in the Art Deco style and provides some unique experiences for movie buffs. You can enjoy the latest release on a reclining sofa. 

The excitement doesn’t end here. You’ll be treated to refreshments that’ll be brought to you while you unwind on your sofa. As a part of their table service, all these items are brought to you in proper crockery and glassware.

3. Get to the Wild West

Within the streets of Morningside is situated a ghost town called the Wild West. The entire set was constructed as a part of an advertising campaign for a furniture company. From the public library, Wild West can be reached within a minute or two. Don’t forget to visit the cantina and jail while you’re in this American outback.

4. Visit the popular farmer’s market

If you really want to immerse yourself in the local culture, visit the farmer’s market. Ever since it opened in 2013, this market has gained immense popularity among the residents. It now opens every third Saturday of the month from 9:30 in the morning to 3:30 pm. 

A visit to this market will give you the chance to mingle with the local community. You can also buy some fresh pies, baked goods, jams, crafts, and confectionery. Some of the other items available in the farmer’s market are pork, fresh poultry, sausages, and fish.

5. Watch a live performance

The Church Hill Theatre is undoubtedly one of the best places to watch a live show in Scotland. It was built in the late 19th century as the Morningside Free Church. It was bought by the Edinburgh Council in 1960 to use it as a performance space. After extensive refurbishment works, the new and improved Church Hill Theatre was reopened in 2006.

6. Enjoy the refreshments

One of the Eat Walk tours offered in this part of Scotland would guide you to some fabulous eateries. After much exploration, you’ll certainly crave for a cup of tea, a hearty sandwich, or a slice of cake. You won’t have to go searching for one, as there’s no shortage of options. 

Dotted around the district are some of the finest eateries and fine dining restaurants. You just need to choose anyone among them and allow yourself to be treated to some mouth-watering delicacies.

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You can also have a relaxing stay in this suburb and explore some of its wonderful offerings. You’ll certainly find some interesting historical buildings while getting around in this part of Scotland. Let’s have a look at some of them:

1. Morningside Public Library

This public library is located on 184 Morningside Road. It was one of Scotland’s busiest libraries in the 1970s. Morningside Public Library was opened in the year 1904 and got extended in 1929.

2. Dominion Cinema

It is an independent cinema, which has been constructed in the Streamline Moderne style of Art Deco architecture. It is also one of Scotland’s only two family-run cinemas. The company to which it belongs was incorporated on the 13th of May 1937 by William Cameron. 

When it was opened on the 31st of January 1938, it had a seating capacity of 1,300. There were two occasions when it was forced to close. The first was in 1939 at the start of the Second World War. At the time, there were widespread fears over air raids. However, it reopened a week later owing to public demand. 

The second time it was forced to close was during the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to add more screens, it had planned closures in 1972, 1980, and 1998. In 1993, it received protection after getting listed as a Category B building. Today, the cinema is still run by the Cameron family as a four-screen venue. 

3. Church Hill Theatre

Yet another Category B listed building, Church Hill Theatre was a former church called ‘Morningside Free Church’. It was originally built in 1892 using pink sandstone and was designed by Hippolyte Blanc. It was purchased by the town council of Edinburgh in 1960. 

After some extensive refurbishment works, it was re-opened in 2006. The auditorium of this theater has a seating capacity of 353. After the renovation was done, lift access was provided to a privately-run cafe and the auditorium. 

The building also has space for smaller functions. It has become a popular venue for amateur drama productions over the years. It also hosts the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Edinburgh International Festival. Additionally, the theater also hosts many dance companies and non-professional theater groups.

4. St Peter’s Church

A parish of the Roman Catholic Church, St Peter’s church falls within the Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh. It is located on the corner of Falcon Gardens and Falcon Avenue. The church was built during the period between 1906 and 1907. The nave of the church was extended between 1928 and 1929. 

The building of this parish church was designed by Sir Robert Lorimer. He was a renowned Scottish architect and furniture designer. The church has been listed as a Category A building. St Peter’s Church was founded by Marc-Andre Raffalovitch and Canon John Gray. The latter had to resign from his post of a curate at St Patrick’s Church in Edinburgh. 

This was done so that he could take charge of the new parish. The Second Vatican Council’s liturgical reforms led to certain changes in the church. Much of its furniture designed by Sir Robert Lorimer was removed. The marble altar and cast-iron altar rails were also lost in this process.

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