April can be one of the best times of the year to visit Edinburgh with the weather slowly warming and most of the large crowds still at home. By this point in the year, most of the restaurants and sites that closed for the winter months will be reopening to ready themselves for the crowds of summer. If you don't mind a few chilly spells, this can be a great time to explore the city without having to deal with the hoards that come just a few weeks later.
Overall, the average daily temperature continues to climb and now stands at 7°C (45°F) for the month. While a heavy jacket is still needed first thing in the morning, the afternoons are much more pleasant. In fact, the average afternoon high for this time of the year is now 11°C (52°F). However, it is still near freezing by first thing in the morning when the average overnight low falls to a cold 3°C (37°F). It will be important to consult an extended forecast before leaving home to make sure that you have the right mix of medium and heavy weight clothes with you.
Of course, it is also still a good idea to pack either a raincoat or an umbrella even though this is the driest month of the year. Throughout the 30 days of the month, an average of 40mm of precipitation is expected to fall over a period of 22 days. Even though much of the rain is light in nature, you don't want to risk being both wet and cold. Despite the fact that overnight lows are just a few degrees above the freezing mark, there is little chance of snow at this time of the year.
The good news is that there can be plenty of sun. On average, the region gets 9 hours of sunshine per day during this time of year. Visitors may be able to find a warmer day and walk along a nearby beach, but the water is still on the cold side at an average of 8°C (46°F).
Where to Stay
Whether you are in town for business or pleasure, the Hilton Edinburgh Grosvenor is in the ideal location to meet all of your needs. Though the building was built in the 1860's, the hotel has all the modern touches you could want combined with old world elegance. Situated just minutes from the center of the city, the hotel offers a number of different room styles with high-speed Internet access and flatscreen TVs.
The Edinburgh Capital Hotel is a three-star, stylish hotel that is situated on the west side of the city. Guests can take advantage of the indoor swimming pool on a cold April day as well as the fitness center, sauna and steam room. There are 111 rooms in the hotel that also features an onsite restaurant and magnificent views.
Also located on the west side of Edinburgh are the Staycity Aparthotels. Whether you need more room for an extended stay or are traveling with a large family, this hotel offers many more places to spread out that a standard room. Guests can choose from the studio apartment or the one or two bedroom variety. All come with a fully functioning kitchen, living area, flatscreen TV and free WiFi.
Restaurants and Nightlife
With a super wine list, extensive beer choices and a locally sources menu there is a lot to like about Three Birds. Open for lunch and dinner, the menu offers cod, duck breast, seafood salad, and more. Be sure to call early for a reservation.
Offering French Caribbean food, Riverlife offers exciting food for lunch and dinner. The restaurant is fully BYOB so be sure to bring in your favourite wine or beverage and there are no corkage fees to worry about. Reservations are recommended in order to secure a table at this small, but popular establishment.
If you are looking for something different than the traditional pub for a late night, be sure to try the Stand Comedy Club. With an entry fee of just a few pounds, you will be treated to great acts throughout the week. With a great atmosphere and food and drink, you will be in for a good time.
Things to Do
One of the more unique museums in Edinburgh is the Surgeon' Hall Museum. After undergoing a recent renovation, the museum is home to dozens of tissue and bone specimens, artifacts and the world's largest collection of surgical pathology. Open seven days a week, this is a great spot for the whole family to explore something off the beaten path.
With the weather warming up in April, now is a great time to get back outdoors and explore Craigmillar Castle. Known as one of the best-preserved castles in the country, it is now a sight to behold and explore. Construction first began in the 15th century and continued for the next 250 years as it played host to numerous famous historical figures. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the castle and be treated to a gorgeous few from the top.
