Like any group of people, even the most seasoned ‘Edinburgers’ can grow weary of daft questions, odd statements, or jokes at their expense. When you live in the tourist capital of the country, you’re bound to encounter a lot of visitors who may not realise that their comments could be grating.
Recently, we asked you, our Scotsman readers, “What is something you should NEVER say to someone from Edinburgh?” and recorded your impassioned answers. For the thousands of revellers making their way to ‘Auld Reekie’ (Scots: Old Smoky) to enjoy its wonderful attractions, these should be of use to you.
If you’re visiting Edinburgh soon and want to put your best foot forward, here are twelve things you should avoid saying to someone from Scotland’s capital city.
5. "You'll have had your tea."
Many Edinburgh residents refer to their dinner as their "tea", and in Scotland we have the saying "You'll have had your tea." This is a rhetorical question a host would ask their guest while in Scotland, making the assumption that the guest had already eaten and therefore they don't need to feed them. In short, it reinforces the stereotype that the Scottish are tight-fisted. Photo: Pichunter (Getty Images)
6. "Did they build the castle there so it would be close to the train station?"
This was another submission by Edinburgh tour guides when recounting questions they received from tourists that surprised them. So, Edinburgh Castle is over 900 years old and Waverley train station is, well, much younger. The castle was built on top of 'Castle Rock' as it was a strategically advantageous position for the then fortress. Photo: Thierry64 (Getty Images)
7. "How are the roadworks coming along?"
Like most of the world, Edinburgh residents have a love-hate relationship with roadworks. Minus any love. Especially in recent months in areas like Leith, the local people have 'enjoyed' their fair share of road closures, temporary traffic lights, and multiple diversions. So, when in doubt, just assume that the roadworks are most likely not going great for the most part. Photo: Anders Boman (Getty Images Signature)
8. "You don't have a Scottish accent!"
The Scots language (yes, it's an officially recognised language) has multiple dialects and Edinburgh's is one of the oldest of them all. While atypical Edinburgh accents may lack the "colourful" flare of those from Glasgow, they most certainly are still "Scottish" - even if they don't conform to your idea of how that "should" sound. Photo: rfwil (Getty Images Signature)