One of the biggest attractions about the UK is the plethora of towns and cities that have their own unique cultural identity and a rich, colourful heritage. While there are many places around the UK worth visiting, Edinburgh is of particular note given its magnificent architecture, wealth of attractions and its place at the heart of Scottish culture for thousands of years. So when you book an hotel in Edinburgh, be sure to check out these five fascinating attractions within this spectacular city.

1. Edinburgh Castle
Overlooking the city, perched atop a volcanic outcrop, the magnificent Edinburgh Castle is one of the most famous sights in Scotland. Within its walls are the Scottish National War Memorial, three military museums, the Prisons of War exhibition and Scotland's crown jewels.

Those seeking to learn about Scottish history and the role the castle has played in the city of Edinburgh will discover a great deal from the many themed displays. Guided tours are available for a small cost, with refreshments on site and remember to stay around for the famous One o'clock Gun, which fires each day.

2. Edinburgh Old Town
The famous Arthur's Seat, one of four hill forts built around the city 2,000 years ago, Holyrood Park and nearby Holyroodhouse Palace, the official Royal Family residence in Edinburgh, are at the heart of Edinburgh's famous Old Town. The park's craggy peaks, the remnants of an extinct volcano, offers great walking around many special sites of scientific interest as well as fantastic views of the city below.

Holyrood Park is situated close to the famous Royal Mile, one 'Scots mile' between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Abbey that is now home to many quality shops and restaurants, as well as being the focal point for the famous Fringe Festival.

3. The Royal Yacht Britannia
Explore what life on board the Royal Yacht Britannia was like on this attraction that is situated just 15 minutes outside the city centre. The yacht served the Royal Family for over 40 years before being decommissioned but it has been lovingly restored and opened for public viewing by the Royal Yacht Britannia Trust who are now responsible for it.

After paying to enter the yacht, there is a free audio guide available that provides insightful commentary about the many highlights of the tour, including the opulent State Apartment, Engine Room and the Crews Quarters.

4. National Museum of Scotland
If you have booked one of the top hotels available from HotelClub at the heart of Edinburgh then you are ideally situated to spend a day at the National Museum of Scotland, located in Chambers Street. This vast collection of antiquities, displays, interactive exhibits, science, technology, art and design is a treasure trove of both human culture and the history of Scotland. The museum has been particularly well received since an extensive recent refurbishment.

5. Gilmerton Cove
An unassuming house in Drum Street in the south of the city is home to the entrance to the eerie, mysterious Gilmerton Cove. This 300-year-old series of chambers and passageways that runs under the city have mystified investigators since their discovery as to their purpose and origins.

A guided tour is the perfect way to explore the labyrinthine passages that have led to countless theories as to the reasons why they were constructed. Indeed, your friendly guide will prompt visitors to come up with their own possibilities as to why the passageways exist. Gilmerton Cove is one of the city's lesser-known attractions, but the friendliness of the staff and their insightful knowledge of the Coves make the trip especially worthwhile.

So whether you are aiming to visit Edinburgh during Hogmanay celebrations, the famous Fringe Festival, or another time of the year, you are assured of a warm welcome from the 'Athens of the North' and there are many attractions in the city to keep you educated and entertained for the duration of your stay.