Cowgate: Edinburgh’s Historic Heartbeat Beneath the Old Town
Discover Cowgate, Edinburgh’s historic street where medieval roots meet vibrant nightlife beneath the Old Town’s iconic skyline.
Cowgate is a historic street nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, lying in a valley below the city’s elevated streets. Dating back to the 14th century, it was once a vital route for driving cattle to market and has evolved into a vibrant hub of culture, nightlife, and heritage. Home to landmarks like St Cecilia’s Hall and Magdalen Chapel, Cowgate combines centuries of history with lively pubs, theaters, and music venues, making it an essential part of Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site.
A brief summary to Cowgate
- Edinburgh, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit St Cecilia’s Hall for a unique glimpse into Scotland’s musical heritage with its historic concert space and instrument collection.
- Explore the underground vaults beneath South Bridge for a fascinating look at Edinburgh’s early urban commerce and taverns.
- Experience Cowgate’s vibrant nightlife by visiting popular venues like Sneaky Pete’s and The Three Sisters.
- Look for the distinctive cow sculptures along the street as a charming reminder of Cowgate’s cattle-driving past.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36 from Edinburgh city center, reaching stops near Cowgate within 10 to 15 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £1.80-£2.00. Note that some stops require a short uphill walk.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Trams to Princes Street stop, then walk approximately 15 minutes downhill to Cowgate. Trams run every 7-10 minutes, with tickets costing about £6 for a single journey from the airport or £1.80 within the city zone.
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Taxi
Taxis from central Edinburgh take 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £7-£12. Taxi ranks are available near major landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and Waverley Station.
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Walking
From Edinburgh Castle or the Royal Mile, walking to Cowgate takes about 10-15 minutes downhill on cobbled streets. The terrain is uneven but accessible with care; suitable for most visitors comfortable with city walking.
Cowgate location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Cowgate
Origins and Historical Significance of Cowgate
Cowgate’s origins trace back to around 1330, marking Edinburgh’s first municipal expansion beyond its medieval core. The street’s name reflects its original function as a drovers’ road where cattle were herded to the Grassmarket for sale, with “gate” meaning street. It lay within the protective Flodden Wall built in the 16th century, featuring the Cowgate Port gatehouse. Archaeological finds reveal the street’s early boundaries and the evolution of its urban fabric, including the filling in of a burn to allow expansion. Once a prestigious address for noble families and city councillors, Cowgate’s layers of history are embedded in its architecture and street plan.Architectural and Cultural Landmarks
Among Cowgate’s historic buildings, the Magdalen Chapel stands out with its intact pre-Reformation stained glass windows, a rare treasure in Scotland. St Cecilia’s Hall, built in 1763, is Scotland’s oldest purpose-built concert hall and now houses a museum of early keyboard instruments, reflecting Edinburgh’s rich musical heritage. St Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church, dating from 1772 and remodeled in 1929, anchors the eastern end of the street. The former Cowgatehead Free Church, with its Gothic octagonal tower, has been repurposed as part of a modern hotel. Beneath the street, the vaults formed by the South Bridge arches once hosted shops and taverns, an early example of underground urban space.Vibrant Nightlife and Contemporary Culture
Today, Cowgate pulses with vibrant nightlife, hosting a variety of pubs, bars, and clubs that attract locals and visitors alike. Venues like Sneaky Pete’s and The Three Sisters offer live music, dance, and social atmospheres, while Brewdog provides a craft beer experience. The street’s intimate venues and historic ambiance create a unique setting for Edinburgh’s famous festivals, including the Fringe. The Devil’s Advocate bar and others tucked into historic buildings add to the street’s lively yet sheltered character, making Cowgate a nightlife cornerstone in the Old Town.Geographical Setting and Urban Context
Cowgate lies in a natural valley beneath the elevated streets of South Bridge and George IV Bridge, which span the street and create a layered urban landscape. It connects the Grassmarket at its western end to Holyrood Road in the east, threading through the Old Town’s dense historic fabric. The street’s lower elevation and enclosed feel contrast with the bustling thoroughfares above, offering a more intimate experience of Edinburgh’s medieval core. Its proximity to landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile situates Cowgate as both a historic passage and a destination in its own right.Legacy and Modern-Day Experience
Cowgate’s enduring legacy is visible in its blend of historic sites and contemporary uses. It remains a vital artery for cultural events, nightlife, and community life within Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site. The street’s character reflects centuries of adaptation—from a cattle route to a prestigious residential street, to a hub of entertainment and hospitality. Visitors can explore its historic chapels, enjoy performances in its concert hall, or immerse themselves in the dynamic social scene, all while surrounded by the echoes of Edinburgh’s layered past.Notable Stories and Hidden Gems
Beyond the main landmarks, Cowgate holds stories of Edinburgh’s social evolution, including its role in the city’s Irish diaspora and the birthplace of notable figures like James Connolly. The street’s vaults hint at forgotten urban life beneath the surface, while the distinctive cow sculptures pay homage to its origins. Cowgate invites exploration beyond the obvious, rewarding those who venture into its closes and courtyards with glimpses of history, community, and vibrant city life all intertwined.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Barrie's Close
0.1 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
124 High St
0.1 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Old College, The University of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Iconic 18th-century classical quadrangle housing Edinburgh Law School and University administration in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The High Street Wellhead
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
Mercat Cross
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Adam Smith Statue
0.2 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Museum Context
0.2 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
George IV Bridge
0.2 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.2 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.2 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
Museum of Childhood
0.3 km
Explore the Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh, a unique museum celebrating the joy and history of childhood through toys, games, and interactive exhibits.
Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft Ltd
0.3 km
Explore the mystical realm of the Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft in Edinburgh, where history and enchantment intertwine seamlessly.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stramash
0.0 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant live music venue with nightly bands, late-night dancing, and Scotland’s largest HD sports screen in a unique historic setting.
Mercat Tours
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s haunted vaults and historic secrets with Mercat Tours, where chilling stories and expert guides bring the city’s dark past to life.
Department Of Magic
0.1 km
Step into Edinburgh’s enchanting basement escape rooms and potions tavern for a magical adventure filled with puzzles, cocktails, and wizardry charm.
South Bridge
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s South Bridge and its eerie underground vaults, where history, mystery, and dark tales intertwine beneath the city’s bustling streets.
Monkey Barrel Comedy
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s intimate comedy hotspot offering award-winning shows, diverse line-ups, and a welcoming atmosphere with table service and a great bar.
South Bridge Vaults
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s eerie 18th-century South Bridge Vaults, where history, mystery, and the city’s dark past converge beneath the streets.
Auld Reekie Tours
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s haunted underground vaults and graveyards with award-winning, immersive guided tours blending history, mystery, and spine-tingling tales.
Edinburgh Old Town
0.1 km
Step into Edinburgh Old Town, where medieval streets, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture unite in Scotland’s historic capital.
ScoziaTour.com
0.1 km
Discover Scotland's breathtaking beauty and rich history with ScoziaTour, your premier travel agency in Edinburgh.
St Cecilia’s Hall: Concert Room & Music Museum, The University of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Scotland’s oldest purpose-built concert hall, now a museum of historic instruments and intimate live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Three Sisters
0.1 km
Experience a lively blend of Scottish hospitality, vibrant live music, and delicious food at The Three Sisters in Edinburgh's Cowgate.
The Lost Close
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden underground vault for immersive whisky tastings and rich historical storytelling beneath the Royal Mile.
Uncovered Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover Scotland's political heart and hidden histories at Parliament Square's premier historical experience.
Hunter Square
0.1 km
Historic Hunter Square, a serene crossroads behind Tron Kirk, blends Edinburgh’s rich heritage with peaceful urban charm.
Talbot Rice Gallery, The University of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art within the historic grandeur of Edinburgh University’s Old College at Talbot Rice Gallery.
Essential places to dine
The Piper's Rest
0.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
The Cellar Door
0.2 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.2 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.2 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.2 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.3 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Ecco Vino
0.3 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Under The Stairs
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Ondine Restaurant
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Monteiths
0.3 km
Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Devil's Advocate
0.3 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
0.3 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Howies Restaurant
0.3 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
MUMS Great Comfort Food
0.3 km
Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
Makars Mash Bar
0.3 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Scotland Shop
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Galaxy
0.1 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.1 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Fringe Shop
0.2 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
scottish experience cashmere place
0.2 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.2 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Eden
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
The Wee Gift Shop
0.3 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
Heritage Clearance Store
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
Real Scot Shop
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
I Love Scotland
0.3 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
Heritage of Scotland
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Scottish Experience
0.3 km
Discover authentic tartans, Celtic jewelry, and Harry Potter treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket—a shopper's delight capturing Scotland's vibrant heritage in every handcrafted find.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.1 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Copper Still
0.1 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Whistlebinkies
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Captain's Bar
0.2 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.2 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Frankenstein
0.3 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
The Oz Bar
0.3 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.3 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
The World's End
0.3 km
Discover the charm of The World's End pub on the Royal Mile, where history meets hearty Scottish cuisine and local brews in Edinburgh.
Ballie Ballerson
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
The Cocktail Geeks
0.4 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
The Jolly Judge
0.4 km
A cozy, historic Scottish pub nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for malt whiskies, real ales, and timeless hospitality just minutes from the Castle.
The Bow Bar
0.4 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.4 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
La Belle Angele
0.0 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.0 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.1 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.1 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Sneaky Pete's
0.2 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.3 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.7 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.7 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Opal Lounge
0.9 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
0.9 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.9 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Club Tropicana
1.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Fun-filled
- Quirky
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nightlife
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
