10 ways to get out and about in the city this month without spending a penny
Dine al fresco
Now that the sunshine is starting to peek through the clouds, why not ditch your expensive lunch with friends and have a picnic instead? Join the crowds on the Meadows or settle down amongst some exotic plant life in the Royal Botanic Gardens.
www.rbge.org.uk
Use two wheels
If you’d rather enjoy the weather on the move, get on your bike and head-off road to one of Edinburgh’s cycle networks. Head out towards Fife, along the Union Canal towards Glasgow or meander along the tranquil Water of Leith. Great exercise and a great day out.
To market
The Edinburgh Farmers’ Market takes place every Saturday selling local food and drink direct from the producers. The stalls line up on Castle Terrace in the West End and it’s a great place to have a wander and pick up some free samples. Be warned, however – you might not be able to resist making a purchase!
Saturdays, 9am – 2pm, www.edinburghfarmersmarket.co.uk
Or make a foodie weekend of it
The Belhaven Beer Festival and Country Fair in Dunbar may not be free, but it is a bargain. The event features tastings from micro-breweries along with local food and folk music in the evenings. Tickets for the entire weekend are just £3 and the price includes a commemorative glass, tasting notes and admission to the closing ceilidh on the Saturday.
Friday 1st and Saturday 2nd May, www.belhavenfruitfarm.co.uk
Have a laugh
If you’re a comedy fan on a budget, get yourself down to The Stand Comedy Club on York Place every Sunday for two hours of free improvised comedy. Doors open at 12.30pm for a 1pm show and if you are feeling flush you can treat yourself to lunch too.
www.thestand.co.uk
Check out new music
Be among the first to see some emerging Scottish bands at The Mill, which took up home in Cabaret Voltaire on Blair Street last month. The venue showcases new talent every other Thursday. Log on to the website to get your free ticket which admits two people.
Thursday 14th and 28th May, www.themill-live.com
Artists Rooms
A new collection of contemporary art, donated by British collector Anthony D’Offay is on display at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art on Belford Road. Each artist has been given their own room in the exhibition, which includes works by Andy Warhol and Damien Hirst.
Until 8th November 2009, www.nationalgalleries.org
Know your wine
Why not ditch the expensive bar and join the free South African Wine Trail on Castle Terrace. The event will feature a real-life garden of grape vines, tips on wine tasting and, the best bit, samples!
Tuesday 19th May, 11am – 8pm
Window shopping
If you’re on a budget ‘til pay day, it doesn’t mean you can’t browse. Edinburgh has a fantastic selection of independent clothes shops for you to plan your next purchase in. Hotspots include Victoria Street in the Old Town, Thistle Street in the City Centre and William Street at the West End.
Or get swapping
Clothes swapping is a great way to update your wardrobe without the expense. Swap online at www.bigwardrobe.com or make an occasion of it and organise a swapping party. What could be better than a great night out and a guilt-free new outfit?
Published on kalimocho.co.uk May 2009
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