The most refreshingly exhilarating things to do in Edinburgh this summer

Curious to learn some not-so-palatable history about Edinburgh? Visit the ‘The Mystery of the Miniature Coffins’ exhibition. It demonstrates how these tiny effigies are thought to represent the victims of Edinburgh's famous anatomy murders by the infamous duo Burke and Hare. A group of boys first discovered the 17 miniature carved coffins and figures on the ascent to Arthur's Seat in 1836 – today, eight of these miniature coffins are on display – while their true origin remains a mystery. Spooky stuff.
Permanent collection

The Edinburgh Flea Market is held on the last Saturday of every month inside the historic Out of the Blue Drill Hall. Among the 45+ stalls, you can find everything from pre-loved clothes and antiques to jewellery and books to haggle on. Need a refreshment? There's also a cafe serving coffee and snacks, ready and waiting to give you that well-deserved bartering break.
May 25

Already having an epic time in Edinburgh? Add some culture into the mix and visit the world’s most famous sheep, Dolly – named after famous musician Dolly Parton. On permanent display at the National Museum of Scotland, Dolly’s taxidermy remains are a bold reminder of the first mammal ever to be cloned from an adult cell, considered curiously controversial back in 1996. Baa-baa-brilliant.
Permanent exhibition

Grab an ice-cold H&T (Hendrick's Gin and tonic) and get ready for the most refreshingly vibrant event of the year: Pride Edinburgh! After its first run in 1994, Pride is considered Scotland’s ‘longest-running celebration of diversity’. While the parade runs through the streets of Edinburgh, there are so many wild events to attend over Pride weekend – so pay close attention to renowned pride-friendly pubs The Street and CC Blooms socials.
Jun 22

While there is many a place to chuckle the night away in one of Edinburgh’s numerous comedy clubs, the “world famous” Stand Comedy Club has an incredibly full roster of events and a decent rep to back it up. One particular event worth mentioning is the 'Best of Scottish Comedy' event that runs for 13 weeks across the summer, attracting hilarious headliners and a refreshing G&T – or two, naturally.
Every two weeks. Apr 25-Jul 25

Join Edinburgh Nightmares on its brand new ghost tour around Leith – aptly named the 'Haunted Leith Ghost Walk'. From historic tales of the Port of Leith to a spooky stroll around the Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial and beyond, you’re in for a tricky treat. The creepiest part? The tour takes place at night, so rest assured the scary factor will be in full force.
Every Saturday, now-May 25

Pay a visit to the curiously fascinating story of the early camera era in Edinburgh’s Outlook Tower-come-Camera-Obscura – where a series of mirrors in a dark room at the top of the tower project a 360º 'virtual tour' of Edinburgh, designed in 1835. Whether it’s a quirky day date or one for the fam, the illusions alone make it well worth a visit – not to mention the 100 interactive exhibits to keep you entertained. 
Open daily

It’s rare to find an exclusive (but free) museum, yet here we are. A place where "whale and dolphin skeletons hang from the ceiling" and home to the "largest and best-preserved collections of anatomy in Scotland," Edinburgh’s Anatomical Museum certainly leaves a lot to be discovered… Like the fact it’s part of the 'Old Medical School' designed by Robert Rowan Anderson and first opened in 1884. It’s quite serious about limited entry, so be sure to book in advance. 
Open monthly by advance booking only. Apr 27, May 25

Keen to find more curious goings-on around the UK? Discover the Hendrick's Gin hub here. Or if you are in more of a stay-at-home kind of mood, discover where to buy Hendrick's Gin here.