Xth Muse

Art galleries in Edinburgh tend to cluster around the city centre, but Xth Muse operates on a different wavelength entirely. Based just outside Newbridge, this is the sort of place you'll stumble upon if you're staying at Linwater Caravan Park and fancy something a bit left-field rather than another trudge round the National galleries.

What you're looking at is contemporary art with actual conviction. The gallery doesn't try to be all things to everyone - it has a point of view, which is refreshing in a city that can feel a touch museum-like at times. The space itself matters as much as what hangs on the walls. You'll need to check their website or ring ahead for current opening hours and what's actually on display, as programming changes seasonally.

This works best if you're genuinely interested in art rather than ticking boxes on a holiday itinerary. Families with young kids might find the visit a bit brief - allow an hour, maybe ninety minutes if there's something that really grabs you. It's not the sort of place where you can comfortably kill a rainy afternoon with a toddler in tow.

The real appeal is proximity to Linwater, which sits just 0.4 miles away. If you're basing yourself there, Xth Muse makes a proper diversion before heading into Edinburgh proper for the bigger attractions. Free admission or paid entry - you'll need to confirm beforehand, as details aren't readily available online.