Heriot Row: Elegant Georgian Heritage in Edinburgh's New Town
Discover the timeless elegance and historic charm of Heriot Row, a prestigious Georgian street overlooking tranquil gardens in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town.
Heriot Row is a distinguished street in Edinburgh's New Town, renowned for its elegant Georgian architecture dating from the early 19th century. With grand townhouses overlooking the tranquil Queen Street Gardens, this prestigious address has housed notable figures including Robert Louis Stevenson. Its classical design, historic significance, and serene garden views make it a quintessential part of Edinburgh’s cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Heriot Row
- Edinburgh, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the Queen Street Gardens for a peaceful retreat and enjoy the views of the historic townhouses surrounding the green space.
- Explore nearby Stockbridge for boutique shops, cafes, and the lively Sunday Market to complement your visit.
- Take time to appreciate the architectural details like the stone steps, pavilion blocks, and original coal cellars hidden beneath the street.
- Learn about Robert Louis Stevenson’s connection to Heriot Row and the inspiration behind his famous novel, Treasure Island.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 3, 8, or 23 from Edinburgh city centre, with a travel time of approximately 10-15 minutes to stops near Heriot Row. Services run frequently throughout the day with standard single fares around £1.80.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Edinburgh Waverley Station to Heriot Row typically takes 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £7-£12. Taxis are readily available at the station and can be booked via apps.
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Walking
From Princes Street in central Edinburgh, a pleasant 20-25 minute walk along Queen Street and through New Town leads to Heriot Row. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers.
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Tram and Walk
Take the Edinburgh Trams to the York Place stop, then walk about 10 minutes southwest to Heriot Row. Tram tickets cost around £1.80 for a single journey. The walk includes some gentle inclines.
Heriot Row 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 Heriot Row
Architectural Grandeur of Edinburgh's New Town
Heriot Row stands as a prime example of Georgian elegance within Edinburgh's New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site developed in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Designed by William Sibbald with Robert Reid refining its palace-front proportions, the street was constructed primarily between 1802 and 1817. Its terraces feature grand townhouses and flats with classic triple-doored pavilion blocks, stone platforms over basement coal cellars, and rear gardens at sub-basement level, all preserved with remarkable authenticity. The street’s architectural harmony reflects the Enlightenment ideals of order and beauty that shaped the New Town’s layout.A Prestigious Address Steeped in History
For over two centuries, Heriot Row has been a coveted residence for Edinburgh’s elite, maintaining its status as a top city address virtually unchanged since its inception. It was home to the famed author Robert Louis Stevenson, whose childhood views of the street’s central garden island are believed to have inspired the setting of "Treasure Island." The street’s history is intertwined with Edinburgh’s cultural and intellectual heritage, embodying the city’s Georgian era prosperity and refinement.Serene Gardens and Hidden Stories
Central to Heriot Row’s charm are the private Queen Street Gardens that the townhouses overlook, offering a peaceful green oasis amidst the urban environment. The gardens feature a small pond with an island, a source of literary inspiration, and a discreetly placed Grecian-style gas governor disguised as a temple, adding a quirky modern twist to the historic setting. These gardens enhance the street’s tranquil atmosphere, providing residents and visitors alike with a rare blend of city living and pastoral calm.Living Heritage and Contemporary Use
Today, Heriot Row continues to serve as a residential street with elegant apartments and townhouses that retain many original features such as high ceilings, large sash windows, and traditional interiors. Some properties offer stunning views northward to the Firth of Forth and southward over the gardens, blending historic character with modern comfort. The street’s location places it within walking distance of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre, Stockbridge’s boutique shops, and cultural landmarks, making it a desirable base for experiencing the city’s heritage and lifestyle.Integration Within Edinburgh’s Urban Fabric
Heriot Row forms part of the New Town’s rectangular grid but also connects to older medieval lanes like Gloucester Lane, marking parish boundaries and linking to historic sites such as St Cuthbert’s Church. This juxtaposition of planned Georgian development with medieval elements highlights Edinburgh’s layered urban history. The street’s careful preservation and continued prestige underscore its importance as a living monument to the city’s architectural and social evolution.Notable Features and Cultural Significance
Among the street’s notable architectural details are the grand entrances accessed by stone steps, original coal cellars beneath the pavement, and the secret walk-in wardrobe with a bookcase door in some residences. These features, along with the street’s association with literary figures and its role in Edinburgh’s Enlightenment expansion, contribute to Heriot Row’s unique character. It remains a symbol of Edinburgh’s rich cultural tapestry and architectural heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of King George Ⅳ
0.4 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
0.5 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
15 Charlotte Square
0.6 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
Melville Monument
0.6 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.6 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
0.7 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.7 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
John Knox Monument
0.8 km
Explore the historic John Knox Monument, a stunning tribute to the Scottish Reformer, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich religious history.
The India Cross
0.8 km
Discover The India Cross in Edinburgh, a historical landmark that showcases the city's cultural connections with India amidst stunning surroundings.
Scottish National War Memorial
0.8 km
Explore the Scottish National War Memorial, a poignant tribute within Edinburgh Castle honoring the valor and sacrifice of Scottish soldiers across history.
The Dean Bridge
0.8 km
A soaring 19th-century stone bridge by Thomas Telford, linking Edinburgh’s New Town with the scenic Water of Leith valley.
The Witches Well
0.8 km
A poignant cast iron memorial outside Edinburgh Castle honoring the thousands accused and executed as witches in Scotland’s dark past.
Forward and Half Moon Battery
0.8 km
Discover the rich military history and breathtaking views of the Forward and Half Moon Battery at Edinburgh Castle, a must-see for every traveler.
Waverley Steps
0.8 km
Discover Waverley Steps in Edinburgh, a historic staircase linking the Old and New Towns, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's rich heritage.
Royal Palace
0.8 km
Discover the Royal Palace of Edinburgh: a historical landmark showcasing Scotland's royal heritage, breathtaking architecture, and stunning gardens in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Edinburgh New Town
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh New Town, a Georgian-era masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and enlightened urban planning in Scotland’s capital.
The Oxford Bar
0.3 km
Experience the heart of Edinburgh at The Oxford Bar, a historic pub known for its literary connections and welcoming atmosphere.
Assembly Rooms
0.3 km
Timeless Georgian elegance meets vibrant cultural life in Edinburgh’s iconic Assembly Rooms on George Street.
Circus Lane
0.4 km
Explore the enchanting Circus Lane in Edinburgh, a hidden gem lined with colorful flowers and charming architecture, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Rose St
0.4 km
A lively, historic pedestrian street in Edinburgh’s New Town, famed for its pubs, boutique shops, and rich literary heritage.
Stockbridge Market
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant Sunday market offering fresh local produce, street food, crafts, and a lively community atmosphere in charming Stockbridge.
Charlotte Square
0.5 km
Charlotte Square: Edinburgh’s elegant Georgian masterpiece, home to historic architecture, tranquil gardens, and Scotland’s First Minister.
The Dome
0.5 km
Experience the elegance of The Dome in Edinburgh, where exquisite dining, vibrant cocktails, and afternoon tea await in a stunning Georgian setting.
Panoramic view Castle
0.5 km
Discover breathtaking, near eye-level views of Edinburgh Castle framed by historic gardens and vibrant city life at Princes Street.
Princes St
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s bustling main street with stunning views, historic gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant shopping in the heart of the city.
Roxy Lanes Edinburgh Rose Street
0.5 km
A vibrant city centre hotspot offering bowling, games, American-style eats, and lively entertainment on Edinburgh’s Rose Street.
The Georgian House
0.5 km
Step back into 18th-century Edinburgh life in this exquisitely restored Georgian townhouse filled with authentic period furnishings and stories.
Floral Clock
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s iconic Floral Clock, a vibrant living timepiece blooming with seasonal flowers in the heart of Princes Street Gardens.
Sip Antics
0.5 km
Create your own bespoke gin, rum, or agave spirit in Edinburgh’s intimate micro distillery experience at Sip Antics.
St Andrew Square & George St
0.5 km
Elegant Georgian square in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending historic grandeur, tranquil gardens, and vibrant cultural life.
Essential places to dine
The Table
0.3 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Contini George Street
0.3 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Six by Nico Edinburgh
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Six by Nico for innovative six-course tasting menus blending playful flavors and stylish ambiance in the city’s vibrant New Town.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.3 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
Badger & Co
0.4 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Purslane Restaurant
0.4 km
Intimate basement fine dining where ambitious modern cuisine meets Scottish sourcing and genuine hospitality.
BABA
0.4 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Aizle
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
Amarone
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively ambiance in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town at Amarone, a bustling Italian restaurant with a rich menu.
The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
0.6 km
Elegant British brasserie with Scottish flair, inventive cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
The Magnum
0.6 km
A cozy yet stylish Edinburgh restaurant blending classic Scottish flavors with creative modern cuisine and a lively bar atmosphere.
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Edinburgh
0.6 km
Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature British dishes and vibrant bar scene in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic St Andrew Square.
Gaucho Edinburgh
0.6 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium Pampas beef and elegant ambiance in Edinburgh’s vibrant city center.
Dishoom Edinburgh
0.6 km
A vibrant Bombay-style café in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving all-day comfort food, bottomless chai and cocktails in a nostalgic, art-deco setting.
Forage & Chatter
0.7 km
Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Greyfriars Art
0.2 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
Scottish Design Exchange
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
Unicorn Antiques
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gem for authentic antiques, vintage furniture, and timeless treasures at Unicorn Antiques on Dundas Street.
The Treasure Trove
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Those Were The Days Vintage
0.4 km
Discover timeless elegance and authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s at Edinburgh’s curated boutique, Those Were The Days Vintage.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Great Scot
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
One World Shop
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
ScotlandShop
0.7 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
CIRCUS Vintage and Curios
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and curiosities in Edinburgh’s charming Stockbridge at CIRCUS Vintage and Curios.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.7 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.8 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.8 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
Anime Republic
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant anime gift shop and community hub offering collectibles, manga, and events for fans of all levels.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lucky Liquor Co
0.1 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
The Bon Vivant
0.2 km
Candlelit bistro haven on Thistle Street, pouring award-winning cocktails and serving local Scottish fare with French finesse since 2008.
Thistle Street Bar
0.2 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
Bramble Bar
0.3 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
Copper Blossom
0.3 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Grand Cru
0.3 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.
Never Really Here
0.4 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
Panda & Sons
0.4 km
Edinburgh's hidden speakeasy where barbershop secrets unlock theatrical cocktails, smoky spectacles, and a fictional family's boozy tales in cosy, low-lit elegance.
The Last Word
0.4 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.5 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.5 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Nightcap
0.6 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
The Caley Bar
0.7 km
Step into The Caley Bar for a refined blend of Victorian railway heritage, bespoke cocktails, and Scotland’s finest whiskies in the heart of Edinburgh.
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
0.7 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gin haven where craft distilling meets cozy speakeasy charm in the heart of the West End.
The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s iconic American-style piano bar blending live music and classic cocktails in a lively West End setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Opal Lounge
0.3 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
0.3 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
0.4 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.4 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
El Barrio Latino
0.4 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.
Why Not Nightclub
0.4 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.4 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Club Tropicana
0.8 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
The Liquid Room
0.9 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
1.0 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
1.0 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
1.0 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
1.1 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
1.2 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Romantic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Classic Georgian
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
