New Town lies to the north of Old Town, separated by Edinburgh Castle and Princess Street Gardens, and is the second oldest part of the city and, like its older sibling, also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Built during the 18th Century in the shape of a grid, incorporating George Street, Princess Street and Queen Street, this is one of Edinburgh’s main shopping areas, as demonstrated by the presence of Harvey Nichols (30-34 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH2 2AD), and a big tourist attraction.

The area was designed and built in a neo-classical style and property here is much sought after. The grand facades, with imposing columns and decorative stonework, provide the area with its own unique style and one which is now protected by law from any alteration. Inside you will find the apartments modernised and comfortable, making this one of the best places to live anywhere in the UK.

Sitting at both ends of this street grid are two of the finest examples of Georgian squares found anywhere in Britain, St. Andrew Square and Charlotte Square. Charlotte Square is particularly revered for its outstanding beauty and is also the official home of the First Minister of Scotland, Bute House, found on the north side.

Set between New Town and Old Town in Princess Street Gardens you will find the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Academy Building (The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL), two neo-classical buildings adjacent to each other. Both buildings are very popular with tourists and home to Scotland’s principal art collections, as well as frequent exhibitions by other artists. The permanent exhibitions are open daily and, best of all, it’s free.

Close by the National Gallery you will find the Scott Monument (East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh), otherwise known as the ‘Gothic Rocket’ because of its 19th century- Flash Gordon shape. Standing over 200 foot tall in honour of Walter Scott, the famous local novelist, visitors can climb the spiral staircase up to the viewing decks from which you can enjoy some marvellous views of the city.

Comedy will forever be associated with Edinburgh, thanks to the Fringe Festival, but don’t worry if you aren’t visiting during August; the city is awash with excellent comedy venues all year round.

Clubs such as The Stand Comedy Clubs, Jongleurs and many others can be found across New Town, but with so many different pubs and clubs putting on comedy acts on different nights, the best thing to do is to see the local listings while you are there by checking out ‘The List’, Edinburgh’s main events magazine.