When you’re thinking of spending some time in the UK during a gap year or mid-career radical sabbatical, London’s bright lights might prove magnetic.

But don’t overlook Scottish capital Edinburgh – it’s one of the world’s most stunning cities, is chock-full of culture and has something fascinating to reveal in every close, street and stairway.

And because it’s in Scotland, it benefits from (arguably) being in the best of Blighty’s four constituent countries.

With that in mind, here are five reasons Edinburgh’s a brilliant British travel base

1. UK’s most attractive city

According to a recent survey by Royal Mail, Edinburgh is the UK’s most attractive city to live in.

Based on criteria like education, job opportunities, business community, earnings and access to green spaces, The Athens of the North pips rivals like London, Bristol, Glasgow and Manchester to the post.

And even if you’re only based here for a few weeks or months, you’ll still be able to soak up the benefits of being a temporary resident.

2. World’s most beautiful country

Readers of renowned travel publisher Rough Guides named Scotland the world’s most beautiful country for 2019.

With elegant urban architecture, magnificent mountains and legendary lochs and glens, it’s easy to see why – and Edinburgh’s an excellent launch pad to explore iconic and historic sites in the Scottish Borders, Fife and the Highlands and Islands.

4. Home of the Festival Fringe

Edinburgh stakes its claim as a cultural capital through its status as a UNESCO City of Literature, but the main reason culture vultures flock here is the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

The Fringe is the world’s biggest arts gathering and has attracted millions of visitors over the years. Held in August, you’ll see everything from spectacular street performers to alternative comedy and bars are open to the wee small hours – what’s not to love?

4. Fab food and drink

Edinburgh’s a culinary capital too, with fantastic food and drink options that range from freshly caught local haggis (joke) to amazing Asian fare.

Henderson’s of Edinburgh boast several outlets serving sumptuous veggie and vegan dishes, while The Ivy on the Square has successfully transplanted the chic ambience of its sister outlet in London to the heart of the Scottish capital.

5. Great transport links

Regular and reliable buses and trams make Edinburgh one of Britain’s easiest cities to navigate and you can catch a train from Waverley Station to anywhere in the UK.

The city’s air hub is Scotland’s biggest too, so you won’t struggle for flights to hotspots like New York. If you’re taking your own car to catch a flight, find Edinburgh Airport parking at Looking4.com and book early for a bargain.

So there you have them – five reasons Edinburgh’s a brilliant British travel base.

Learn a few choice local phrases from YouTube, practice your whisky drinking and get booked for a cool Caledonian break soon!

Have you been to Edinburgh? Share your tips in the comments section.