Fishmarket Square, Newhaven – A Historic Maritime Hub in Edinburgh
Historic Fishmarket Square in Newhaven, Edinburgh, where maritime heritage meets vibrant community life by the Firth of Forth.
Fishmarket Square in Newhaven, Edinburgh, is a historic maritime square once known as St Andrew's Square. It served as the bustling heart of Newhaven's fishing community, surrounded by traditional pubs and Victorian tenements. Today, it preserves echoes of its seafaring past amidst modern transformations, with nearby fish markets and harbourside views reflecting its enduring connection to the Firth of Forth.
A brief summary to Fishmarket Square
- Edinburgh, Newhaven, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit local pubs around the square to experience traditional Newhaven fishing community atmosphere.
- Explore nearby Welch’s Fishmongers for fresh seafood and insight into Newhaven’s fishing heritage.
- Take time to appreciate the Victorian architecture and historic tenements surrounding the square.
- Enjoy views of the harbour and lighthouse from the square, especially at sunset for a scenic experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses service 16 or 22 from central Edinburgh to Newhaven; journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Services run frequently but check schedules for evenings and weekends. A single fare costs around £1.80-£2.00 GBP.
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Train and Walk
Use Edinburgh Waverley station and take a short taxi or bus ride to Newhaven, then walk about 10 minutes on mostly flat terrain to Fishmarket Square. Train travel times vary depending on origin but central Edinburgh connections are frequent and affordable.
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Car
Driving from central Edinburgh takes about 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Parking near Fishmarket Square is limited and often restricted to residents; public parking is available nearby but expect a short walk. Parking fees typically range from £1.50 to £3.00 per hour.
Fishmarket Square 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 Fishmarket Square
Legacy of a Proud Fishing Village
Fishmarket Square lies at the core of Newhaven, a community with roots stretching back to the early 16th century. Originally a small fishing village, Newhaven grew significantly after King James IV established a royal dockyard nearby in 1511. This development anchored Newhaven’s maritime identity, making it a vital hub for fishing and shipbuilding on the Firth of Forth. The square itself, formerly known as St Andrew's Square, was once surrounded by bustling shops, houses, and public houses that served the local fishermen and their families.The Social Heart of Newhaven
Historically, Fishmarket Square was encircled by several notable pubs such as The Ship Inn and The Stone Pier, which catered to different groups of fishermen. These establishments were central to the community’s social life, providing gathering places where stories and camaraderie flourished. The pubs, some with unique features like gravity-fed taps, reflected the character and traditions of Newhaven’s fishing culture. Though many original buildings have changed or been repurposed, the square’s atmosphere still resonates with this heritage.Architectural and Cultural Remnants
The architecture around Fishmarket Square includes mid- to late-18th-century tenements, some of which were modified in the 20th century. These buildings, with their harled exteriors and Victorian influences, stand as physical reminders of Newhaven’s evolution. Nearby, the old fish market building, a B-listed Victorian structure, anchors the area’s identity and now hosts contemporary restaurants and bars, blending heritage with modern leisure. The red-painted wooden facades and traditional forestaired buildings evoke the maritime past, even as the community has transformed over recent decades.Changing Tides and Community Transformation
Over the 20th century, Newhaven’s fishing industry declined, and the village gradually became integrated into the larger urban fabric of Edinburgh and Leith. Many original community customs and ways of life faded, but efforts to preserve the history through oral archives and local storytelling continue. Fishmarket Square serves as a poignant symbol of this transition, where the spirit of the fishing community lives on in architecture, local businesses, and cultural memory.Modern-Day Experience and Atmosphere
Today, Fishmarket Square is a lively spot that offers visitors a glimpse into Newhaven’s maritime heritage alongside modern amenities. The nearby Fishmarket restaurant and Welch’s Fishmongers provide fresh seafood experiences that celebrate the area’s fishing legacy. The square’s open space, views of the harbour and lighthouse, and proximity to traditional pubs create a unique blend of history and contemporary life, inviting exploration and reflection on Edinburgh’s coastal past.Preserving Maritime Identity Amid Urban Growth
Despite urban expansion and changing economic realities, Fishmarket Square remains a focal point for Newhaven’s identity. The square’s story is one of resilience, where the echoes of a once-thriving fishing village continue to shape the character of this Edinburgh neighbourhood. Its blend of historic architecture, cultural landmarks, and community spirit offers a meaningful experience for those interested in Scotland’s maritime heritage and urban evolution.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Forth Lock
1.2 km
Historic Forth Lock in Leith, Edinburgh, blends maritime heritage with vibrant waterfront life and scenic canal views.
Leith East Breakwater Lighthouse
1.4 km
Historic maritime beacon guiding ships into Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Docks since 1876, now a cherished symbol of nautical heritage.
Water of Leith Walkway Finish
1.5 km
Edinburgh’s scenic 13-mile riverside trail ends at Leith’s historic waterfront, blending nature, heritage, and urban charm.
Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial
1.6 km
A solemn sandstone column in Leith honoring the bravery and sacrifice of Scotland’s merchant seafarers lost at sea in war and peace.
Queen Victoria Statue
1.8 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Queen Victoria and Leith’s Boer War heroes, standing proudly at the foot of Leith Walk since 1907.
Robert Burns Statue
1.8 km
A striking tribute to Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, set in the historic maritime district of Leith, Edinburgh.
What to do in Edinburgh
2.3 km
Uncover the rich history and vibrant culture of Edinburgh with guided tours that bring the city's unique stories to life.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
2.9 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Melville Monument
2.9 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
3.0 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
Dugald Stewart Monument
3.0 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Statue of King George Ⅳ
3.0 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
3.0 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Centre of Edinburgh
3.1 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
3.1 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Newhaven Harbour
0.1 km
Historic fishing village and royal dockyard site with rich maritime heritage and scenic waterfront on Edinburgh’s Firth of Forth.
Lighthouse Park
1.0 km
Tranquil coastal park in Leith with iconic lighthouse views, maritime heritage, and sweeping panoramas over the Firth of Forth.
Ocean Terminal
1.1 km
Edinburgh’s premier waterfront shopping and leisure destination, blending retail, dining, cinema, and maritime heritage in vibrant Leith.
The Leith Mural
1.1 km
A monumental mural in Edinburgh’s Leith district capturing decades of community history and maritime heritage through vivid street art.
0 Water of Leith Walkway
1.1 km
A tranquil 12-mile riverside walkway weaving through Edinburgh’s nature, history, and art, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural discovery.
The Royal Yacht Britannia
1.1 km
Explore the majestic Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, a floating palace rich with royal history and stunning waterfront views.
Port of Leith Distillery (entrance)
1.3 km
A poignant memorial in Leith honoring the valor and sacrifice of the Royal Marines 43rd Commando during World War II.
Leith Citadel
1.3 km
Explore the enduring 17th-century fortress guarding Edinburgh’s historic port in the vibrant Leith waterfront district.
Lind and Lime Gin Distillery
1.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s artisanal gin heritage with interactive tours and tastings at Lind and Lime Gin Distillery in vibrant Leith.
Teuchters Landing
1.5 km
Waterside freehouse on Leith’s Shore — wide whisky range, rotating ales, dockside beer garden and roomy conservatory for all seasons.
Custom House Leith
1.6 km
Historic Georgian Custom House in Leith, evolving into Scotland’s first fully digital museum and vibrant cultural hub.
Shore
1.6 km
Historic waterfront district in Leith blending maritime heritage with vibrant dining, bars, and scenic river views.
The King's Wark
1.7 km
A centuries-old Leith gastropub serving seasonal Scottish seafood and classic pub fare in a cosy waterside setting.
Black Axe Throwing Co - Edinburgh
1.7 km
Edinburgh’s premier urban axe-throwing venue with the UK’s largest alcohol-free bar, blending skill, fun, and social vibes.
Trinity House Maritime Museum
1.7 km
Explore Leith’s seafaring legacy in an elegant Georgian townhouse, home to a remarkable collection of maritime treasures and stories.
Essential places to dine
Roseleaf Bar Cafe
1.4 km
Eclectic family-run bar cafe in Leith serving fresh Scottish classics, inventive cocktails, and a quirky, artistic atmosphere.
The Kitchin
1.4 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with a French touch in Edinburgh’s iconic Michelin-starred restaurant nestled in historic Leith.
Domenico's
1.5 km
A cozy, authentic Italian restaurant in Leith serving fresh Sicilian-inspired dishes with warm hospitality and generous portions.
Kezban Mediterranean Restaurant
1.5 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality on the vibrant shore of Leith in Edinburgh.
Heron
1.6 km
Michelin-starred modern Scottish dining in Leith with innovative seasonal menus and scenic waterside views.
Tapa
1.6 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the heart of Leith at Tapa, Edinburgh’s celebrated tapas bar and restaurant.
Fishers
1.6 km
Historic 17th-century watchtower turned seafood haven in Leith, serving fresh Scottish fish with a relaxed, waterfront charm.
The Shore Bar and Restaurant
1.7 km
Cozy waterfront dining in Leith offering superior seafood and modern European cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Nobles Cafe Bar & Restaurant
1.8 km
Leith's historic gastropub where Scottish seasons meet craft drinks, roaring fires, and port-side charm in a dog-friendly haven of flavor and vibe.
The Walnut
2.3 km
Cozy and unpretentious, The Walnut offers seasonal Scottish dishes with creative flair and excellent value on Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Walk.
L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine Bar
2.5 km
Authentic French bistro in Edinburgh blending classic cuisine with fresh Scottish ingredients and a cozy wine bar atmosphere.
Fhior
2.5 km
Experience innovative Scottish fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a minimalist, elegant setting at Edinburgh’s acclaimed Fhior.
Educated Flea
2.6 km
Discover bold, inventive fusion cuisine with a Scottish twist in a cozy, friendly spot on Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Down The Hatch Edinburgh
2.6 km
Bold Canadian comfort food and lively vibes meet in the heart of Edinburgh’s Antigua Street for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Taisteal
2.6 km
A Michelin-mentioned Edinburgh gem where Scottish ingredients meet global flavours in a warm, intimate setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Leith collective
1.0 km
Discover upcycled artistry and sustainable treasures from 65+ Leith makers in this eco-heartfelt shopping gem at Ocean Terminal.
Retro Clothing Outfit
1.0 km
Dive into decades of style at Retro Clothing Outfit in Leith's Ocean Terminal—vintage gems await in Edinburgh's creative coastal enclave.
Build-A-Bear
1.1 km
Craft your own cuddly companion in Leith's lively workshop, where stuffing hearts and dreams creates lifelong memories for kids and families alike.
Britannia Gift Shop
1.1 km
Discover exclusive royal souvenirs and nautical treasures at the Britannia Gift Shop, where the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II's yacht comes alive in every carefully curated item.
TBCo | Tartan Blanket Co.
1.4 km
Discover sustainable tartan magic in Leith: touch lambswool blankets, customize with embroidery, and carry home Scotland's cozy soul from this Edinburgh gem.
ScotClans
1.5 km
Authentic Scottish clan and tartan products crafted with heritage and pride in the heart of Leith, Edinburgh.
Flux
1.7 km
Curated cards, artisan homewares and design-led gifts in a compact, maker-friendly shop on Bernard Street, Leith.
Destined for Home
1.8 km
Discover unique gifts and personal service in the heart of Leith at Destined for Home, Edinburgh’s charming boutique for distinctive treasures.
Logan Malloch Ltd
1.9 km
Edinburgh's Leith gem: artisanal gifts, art prints, witty cards, books & Scottish crafts in a charming shop on vibrant Leith Walk.
Wee Leith Shop
2.1 km
Quirky novelties and charming gifts await in this cozy Leith Walk gem, capturing the neighborhood's independent spirit with playful treasures for every home.
Georgian Antiques
2.1 km
Explore 50,000 sq ft of Scotland's finest antiques in Leith's historic heart – from Regency cabinets to gilded mirrors in one vast warehouse.
The Dragonfly
2.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
The Cats Miaou
2.5 km
A vibrant Leith gift shop bursting with quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced handmade treasures in Edinburgh.
Curiouser & Curiouser
2.5 km
A design-led independent shop in Edinburgh, filled with art, cards, homewares, and unique gifts with a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic.
Unicorn Antiques
2.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gem for authentic antiques, vintage furniture, and timeless treasures at Unicorn Antiques on Dundas Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Vine Bar
1.0 km
Experience the warmth of Leith at The Vine Bar, a cozy spot offering a delightful selection of local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Barologist
1.5 km
A characterful Leith pub-cocktail bar mixing inventive drinks, rustic plates and quirky interiors for relaxed nights and small celebrations.
Three Marys
1.6 km
Leith's stylish cocktail gem with smoked margaritas, eclectic decor, and shareable plates in a historic portside nook—perfect for inventive sips and cozy evenings.
Malt & Hops
1.6 km
Historic Leith pub since 1749, pouring real ales and whiskies by a roaring fire amid maritime charm on the Shore.
Smoke & Mirrors
1.9 km
Quirky Leith cocktail haven where magic-themed vibes meet masterful mixes in an intimate, colourful escape from Edinburgh's everyday.
Leith Dockers Club
1.9 km
Leith's 1946 social heartbeat: massive bar, function suites, beer garden, and community spirit for gatherings big and small.
The Lioness of Leith
1.9 km
Leith's quirky gastropub haven for gourmet burgers, craft cocktails, and electric vibes since 2013—where quality bites meet lively nights.
The Last Word
2.7 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
The Street
2.7 km
Casual cocktail bar by day, energetic late-night bar and small club by night — Picardy Place’s go-to spot for social evenings and weekend parties.
Nightcap
2.8 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
Bramble Bar
2.9 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
The Alchemist
3.0 km
Theatrical cocktails that smoke and sparkle, inventive global dishes, and an alchemist's lair in Edinburgh's St James Quarter—pure mixology magic awaits.
Grand Cru
3.0 km
Edinburgh's cocktail haven on Hanover Street, blending masterful drinks, modern European bites, and seamless day-to-night vibes in the heart of New Town.
Thistle Street Bar
3.0 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
Lucky Liquor Co
3.0 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Garibaldi's
2.9 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.
Why Not Nightclub
3.0 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
3.0 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Opal Lounge
3.0 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
El Barrio Latino
3.1 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.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
3.2 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
3.2 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
3.5 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
3.6 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Cabaret Voltaire
3.6 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 Liquid Room
3.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
La Belle Angele
3.6 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Sneaky Pete's
3.6 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Bongo Club
3.6 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
3.6 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
