Things To Do
in Edinburgh Of The Seven Seas
Edinburgh of the Seven Seas is a historic settlement on Saint Helena, perched above rugged Atlantic cliffs and a busy harbor. It embodies colonial charm with terraced houses, stairways, and a small-town vibe tucked along a windy coast. The town serves as the island’s gateway to dramatic landscapes, subtropical flora, and a sense of remoteness that defines Saint Helena.
Expect a quiet, nature-forward experience with a strong maritime and historic heritage feel.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided tour of Longwood Estate, the former residence of Napoleon Bonaparte. Learn about his final years and see the fascinating artifacts that tell his story. Enjoy the lush gardens that surround the estate, providing a tranquil setting for reflection.
After lunch, visit the nearby Briars Pavilion, where Napoleon first arrived on St Helena. The Pavilion holds historical significance and beautiful views of the landscape. Take plenty of photographs and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
In the evening, head to Jamestown for a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant. Try traditional dishes that give you a taste of Saint Helenian culture. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the harbor, watching the sunset over the ocean.
Begin the morning with a hike to Diana's Peak, the highest point on the island. Enjoy the panoramic views of the lush green hills and the unique flora and fauna found in this protected area. The fresh air and stunning scenery will invigorate your spirit.
After the hike, have a picnic lunch amid the stunning landscapes created by volcanic activity. Enjoy the diverse wildlife as you relax and recharge. Later, consider visiting the nearby Peaks National Park to explore more of St Helena's biodiverse environment.
Return to Jamestown for dinner, selecting a seafood restaurant that features local catch. After your meal, take part in a cultural performance showcasing local music and dance. The connections made through art and heritage will leave you feeling enriched.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range cafe | $12-20 |
| 🫖Coffee/tea at a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🏨1-night mid-range hotel | $120-200 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (short trip) | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and accessible hikes
- Rich colonial history and shipwreck-era charm
- Quiet, safe, and small-community feel
- Easy to explore on foot in Jamestown with scenic day trips
- Very limited nightlife and dining options after hours
- Remote location means higher travel costs and longer travel times
- Occasional limited healthcare facilities; some services require travel off-island
- "Hello" - Hello
- "Please" - Please
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Excuse me" - Excuse me
- "Do you speak English?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Edinburgh Of The Seven Seas
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic zig-zag staircase that climbs from the waterfront to the town above—great for dramatic cityscapes and urban textures.
Colorful boats, working docks, and sea spray with the backdrop of pastel houses and rugged coastline.
Dramatic landscape with the tomb in the distance; catches unique light at dawn or dusk.
Clifftop views over the Atlantic and dramatic sea stacks, ideal for wide-angle coastal photography.
Food in Edinburgh Of The Seven Seas
Edinburgh Of The Seven Seas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy cakes made with locally caught fish and herbs, typically served with a chutney or tangy relish.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked pork with tamarind and island vegetables, a comforting dish found in several island eateries.
Sweet desserts featuring island bananas, often with coconut or creamy components.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small daily market offering fresh seafood, tropical fruit, bread, and local crafts.
Occasional street stalls near the harbor where vendors sell snacks, fruits, and light bites with sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local privacy and quiet hours in residential areas. When photographing people, ask for permission. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and familiarize yourself with island customs and greetings.
Safety
Tipping in Edinburgh Of The Seven Seas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A small tip (5-10%) in restaurants is common if service is good; most places do not automatically add a service charge.
Cash (GBP/SHP) is widely accepted, and major hotels and some shops accept credit/debit cards. Some remote establishments may be cash-only or have limited card facilities. Local currency is Saint Helena pound (SHP), pegged to GBP; British pounds are generally accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with gentle trade winds; occasional tropical showers. Pack light clothing, sun protection, and a light rain layer. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for outdoor activities.
Mild temperatures with decreasing humidity; good for hiking and exploring outdoor markets. Sunscreen and layers recommended for cooler evenings.
Cooler and wetter conditions; misty mornings possible. Dress in layers and be prepared for slippery paths after rain. Wildlife and coastal scenery can be striking in diffused light.
Variable weather with fresh greenery and blooming flora. Layered clothing and a compact umbrella are handy; the island is particularly picturesque.
Edinburgh Of The Seven Seas at Night
Hiking in Edinburgh Of The Seven Seas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A higher-altitude hike with panoramic island views and moorland scenery; can be exposed and windy.
A coastal-to-cliff hike offering dramatic sea views and opportunities to spot seabirds.
Airports
How to reach Edinburgh Of The Seven Seas by plane.
Remote airport located near Prosperous Bay Plain with a single runway. Flights are limited and typically connect to international hubs via charter arrangements; transfer to Jamestown is by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A small population of around a few thousand residents, with a mix of European and mixed-heritage communities. English is the official language and the primary means of communication.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The island’s most widely played sport with local clubs and community matches.
Historically popular, with weekend games and amateur clubs distributed around the island.
Played by local teams, especially among younger communities and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Edinburgh Of The Seven Seas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on fresh fruit, vegetables, dairy, and potato-based dishes; ask for seafood-free options and communicate spice tolerance. Many cafés can accommodate vegetarian requests with advance notice.
Options exist in larger eateries; request vegetable-based dishes, fruit, legumes, and starches; confirm whether dairy and eggs can be omitted.
Many dishes can be adapted; inform staff of gluten intolerance and look for naturally gluten-free seafood and salads; cross-contamination is possible in smaller kitchens.