If you wish to visit somewhere picturesque in the UK, then there is no better place than Edinburgh, but many visitors make a big mistake when trying to take photographs around the city. Edinburgh is often named one of the most beautiful cities in Britain, thanks to its stunning medieval architecture, but Edinburgh Castle is its most iconic gem.
I have lived in Edinburgh all my life, and every time I walk out of my home, I see tourists taking pictures of the castle, but there is a simple way to get a better photograph and also enjoy a great view of the city without having to worry about crowds. It is very popular for visitors to Edinburgh to visit the Waterstones bookshop on Princes Street, as the cafe inside is known to have a stunning window view of the castle.
If you go on social media and look up Edinburgh Castle, then you will often see people snapping a picture from Waterstones, and some locals avoid the bookshop cafe due to how popular it is.
I love Waterstones, but I would never go there to photograph the castle or even just to relax, as too many people know about the spot.
There are three tables cramped by the window, making it difficult to get a good shot, as it can often be very busy and noisy.
If you want to get a good photograph of Edinburgh Castle, then I highly recommend instead walking to the Willow Tea Rooms, which is only a couple of stores down from Waterstones.
Most people visiting Edinburgh do not know about the Willow Tea Room, as they often have their doors closed and you have to climb stairs to get to the eating area, so it is very easy to miss if you do not know about it.
However, it is one of my favourite places as the Willow Tea Room has massive windows inside which, in my opinion, have a better view of Edinburgh Castle than Waterstones.
The big windows mean you will have a breathtaking view of the castle, no matter where you sit, so you will not disturb anyone if you are trying to take a photograph.
I love going to the Willow Tea Rooms as it is often quiet despite being on the main street in Edinburgh, and the staff have always been lovely every time I visit.
The best thing about the Willow Tea Rooms is that it serves afternoon tea and has a great selection of cakes if you are also feeling peckish.
It is great for just a cup of tea, but it has a big menu, so it is fantastic if you are looking for somewhere to eat out for dinner or looking to experience a Scottish breakfast.
One of my favourite ways to treat myself is to go visit Waterstones to buy a book and then spend an hour at the Willow Tea Room, as it is one of the cosiest and comfiest places in the city centre.
If you want a quieter spot to enjoy the view of Edinburgh Castle and take some stunning photos, then I highly recommend the Willow Tea Room over the more popular Waterstones.