Heritage city guide

Whether you’re wandering through the medieval streets of the Old Town, admiring the Georgian elegance of the New Town, or exploring the maritime history of Leith, you’ll find that Edinburgh’s past is always present, ready to be discovered.

Let us take you on a journey as we explore the city’s historic highlights.

The Royal Mile

Threading its way through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the Royal Mile is topped by Edinburgh Castle at its crest and the Palace of Holyroodhouse at its base. A stroll along this famous street reveals an assortment of treasures to explore, and when it’s time to take a break, there are plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes to relax in.

Take a step back in time with a visit to Gladstone’s Land and see what life would have been like in 17^th century Edinburgh. Enter Makars’ Court, a tranquil courtyard with carved paving stones celebrating writers from the 14^th century right up to the current day and it is here you will find the Writers Museum. This attraction contains the works of some of Scotland’s greatest writers including Robert Burns and Robert Louis Stevenson. Further down the Royal Mile you can visit John Knox House which dates back to 1470. This is the only medieval building remaining in Edinburgh and is associated with the Scottish Reformation and subsequent abdication of Mary Queen of Scots. For a glimpse into the lives of Edinburgh’s residents during the 17^th century, visit the Real Mary King’s Close. This underground warren of streets and houses was once a bustling part of the city, now preserved as a historic site.

Just down the street, St Giles Cathedral rises ahead. Dating back to 1120 it was constructed during the reign of King David I and is well worth a visit for its stunning architecture and colourful stained glass windows. Outside, see if you can spot the Heart of Midlothian, a heart-shaped mosaic marking the position of the 15^th century Old Tolbooth.

The Scottish Parliament sits near the foot of the Royal Mile. Its contemporary architecture is in stark contrast to the ancient and historical buildings close by. Open on certain days for free guided tours and talks, it also has an excellent exhibition, café and gift shop. Directly opposite the Parliament is the impressive Palace of Holyroodhouse. The King’s official residence in Edinburgh, it is open to visitors at various times throughout the year. Guided tours through the grounds and Royal Apartments are a superb way to learn about royal history over the centuries.

Discover more about the must-see attractions in this popular part of the city in our Guide to the Royal Mile 

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The Grassmarket

Nestled beneath the towering presence of Edinburgh Castle, the Grassmarket is one of the oldest parts of the city.

This historic marketplace was originally a site for cattle and horse trading, but it also has a darker history as the location of public executions. Today, the area is known for its lively atmosphere, with traditional pubs, restaurants, and independent shops. The area’s historic significance is reflected in landmarks like The White Hart, one of Edinburgh’s oldest pubs, and nearby Greyfriars Kirk, where the famous loyal dog Greyfriars Bobby is buried. 

Discover more about this lively area in our Guide to the Grassmarket 

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New Town

Edinburgh’s New Town is a perfect example of Georgian town planning. Designed in 1767, it is the epitome of grandiose elegance with classic terraces, gardens and squares.

Take a stroll through the carefully sculpted terraces of Princes Street Gardens and marvel at its impressive monuments and statues. To the east of the gardens is the 61 metre high Scott Monument. Dedicated to Edinburgh-born author Sir Walter Scott, it is one of the world’s largest monuments to a writer. Take a guided tour and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. Art lovers will not want to miss National Galleries of Scotland: National which not only houses a significant collection of Scottish and European art, but is also a fine example of neoclassical architecture.

Charlotte Square and St Andrew Square sit at opposite ends of Edinburgh’s popular George Street with its fashionable shops and restaurants.  A visit to The Georgian House in Charlotte Square will give you a peek at life over 200 years ago, while The Assembly Rooms were originally built as an entertainment venue for Edinburgh residents and are still used today for concerts, performances and exhibitions. 

Explore more about this stylish part of Edinburgh in our Guide to the New Town.

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Calton Hill

Calton Hill sits to the east of Princes Street and in addition to the panoramic views, boasts some of the capital’s most magnificent landmarks. 

The Parthenon-inspired, National Monument was intended to honour Scottish soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars, but was never completed, while the Nelson Monument was built in 1816 to commemorate Admiral Lord Nelson.

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Dean Village

A short walk from the bustling streets of the city centre sits the peaceful and picturesque Dean Village.

In years gone by this village, which sits on the Water of Leith, was a hub of activity renowned for its water mills. Today, you can still see remnants of the past with mill stones and carved plaques. The impressive Dean Bridge, designed by Thomas Telford, traverses the water and standing on top of the bridge you can see the backdrop of the high-rise Georgian apartments and their gardens which roll down to the water’s edge. 

Nearby sits the National Galleries Scotland: Modern with its unique sculpture park and collection of world-renowned contemporary art. Composed of two beautiful classical buildings, check out their website for current and upcoming exhibitions, talks and events.

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Stockbridge

North of New Town, Stockbridge is a neighbourhood known for its bohemian atmosphere and independent shops.

While the weekly Stockbridge Market is relatively new, the surrounding streets are lined with charming, cobbled streets like Circus Lane, where you can admire classic Georgian terraces and quaint mews houses.

Make the short walk to the nearby Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and you’ll be rewarded with an oasis of tranquillity. Founded in the 17^th century, it is one of the oldest botanic gardens in the UK and home to a vast collection of plants and historic glasshouses.

Discover more things to see and do here with our Guide to Stockbridge.

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Leith

Edinburgh’s historic port, Leith has undergone significant transformation, blending its maritime past with a vibrant contemporary culture.

Now permanently berthed at Leith, The Royal Yacht Britannia served the British Royal Family for over 40 years. This floating museum offers a fascinating insight into royal life at sea. Or soak up Leith’s maritime history at Trinity House, which contains an interesting collection of nautical treasures.

Once the bustling heart of Edinburgh’s maritime trade, the Shore area of Leith is now home to a lively dining and bar scene. The Ship on the Shore originally opened in 1834 as a tavern and coffee house, while the centuries old King’s Wark has seen life as a royal residence, private armoury for James I and plague hospital. Today, both are renowned for their satisfying plates of fresh Scottish fish and seafood.

Explore more in our Guide to Leith.

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Southside

South of the Old Town, the Southside neighbourhood is a hub of academic life, with a vibrant mix of cultures.

It is here that one of the world’s top and oldest universities can be found. The University of Edinburgh was founded in 1583. Key buildings in the area include Old College, which has been the site of law teaching at the university for over 300 years, and Talbot Rice Gallery, which showcases contemporary art in a 19^th century setting.

Explore Edinburgh’s medical history at Surgeons’ Hall Museums. Part of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, the collection contains the largest and most historic collections of surgical pathology in the world, including bone and tissue specimens, artefacts and works of art.

For those times when you need sanctuary in nature, the expansive Meadows is close by. Once a marshy loch, it was drained in the 18^th century to create a public park and today is a popular spot for relaxation and recreation.

Discover more in our Guide to Southside.

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