When people go on day-trips from Edinburgh they often head north but the south has plenty to offer too. Take a trip to Tweedbank in the Scottish Borders, and enjoy a train journey that's almost as lovely as the destination, as you pass through the Midlothian countryside. Head 2km on foot from the train station to Abbotsford House, once home of famous Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. The gardens of the mansion house are impressive and much of the planning and layout was done by Scott. You can also enjoy a stroll along Gunknowe Loch where ducks and swans bathe on the water. Tweedbank is a great base for exploring the wider borders, and there are lots of cycle and walking routes nearby. If you're a keen cyclist, you can enjoy 55 miles of countryside on the 4 Abbeys cycle route, which takes you to Melrose Abbey, Dryburgh Abbey, Kelso Abbey and Jedburgh Abbey. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
10. South Queensferry (Journey duration: 16 minutes)
Located 10 miles to the west of Edinburgh on the shores of the Firth of Forth, South Queensferry is best known for its three iconic bridges - Forth Bridge, Forth Road Bridge and the Queensferry Crossing. The striking, red coloured Forth Bridge, a World Heritage Site built in the 1800s to transport rail passengers across the Forth Estuary, is one of Scotland's most famous landmarks. Once you've taken plenty of pictures of the bridges, wander along the town's quaint cobbled streets past ice cream coloured houses or enjoy tree-lined walks and coastal paths. There are also plenty of great options if you want to grab a bite to eat. You can get a good afternoon tea at The Little Bakery or head along to Scotts at Port Edgar Marina for lunch or dinner with magnificent views over the bridges. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
11. St Andrews (Journey duration: 52 minutes (train to Leuchars), 12 minutes (bus to St Andrews))
Sadly there's no direct train to St Andrews but this shouldn't stop you taking a day-trip to one of Scotland's loveliest towns and the bus connections from Leuchers train station are frequent and quick. Known as the home of golf, St Andrews is an iconic place to enjoy Scotland's national sport. There are plenty of courses to choose from, including the famous Old Course at St Andrews and you can find out more about the sport at the British Golf Museum. You don't have to be a golf fan though to enjoy this seaside retreat. You can explore the remains of St Andrews Cathedral, Scotland’s largest and most magnificent medieval church. Climb to the top and be rewarded with fantastic views of St Andrews and Fife. If that sounds too energetic, why not take a refreshing stroll on the beach and enjoy an ice cream from Jannettas Gelateria, which has been going strong in the town for more than 100 years? Or wander around the town's boutique shops and lovely cafes. Photo: Canva/Getty Images