Scottish Storytelling Centre
The world's first purpose-built storytelling centre, blending 15th-century history with contemporary performance on Edinburgh's Royal Mile.
The world's first purpose-built centre for live storytelling, the Scottish Storytelling Centre sits at the heart of Edinburgh's Royal Mile. This award-winning venue blends contemporary design with medieval architecture, housing the historic John Knox House (dating to 1470), a 99-seat theatre, library, and vibrant café. Year-round programming features storytelling, theatre, music, dance, and exhibitions celebrating Scotland's rich cultural heritage. The centre welcomes all ages and interests, offering free exhibitions, workshops, family events, and two major annual festivals.
A brief summary to John Knox House
- 43-45 High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR, GB
- +441315569579
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
- Budget
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Storytelling Court and café even if you're not attending a performance—the free exhibitions, activity wall, and welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect rest stop while exploring the Royal Mile.
- Check the events calendar before visiting, as programming varies throughout the year. October's Scottish International Storytelling Festival and August's Edinburgh Festival Fringe offer particularly rich schedules.
- Allow time to explore John Knox House, particularly the Oak Room ceiling and the hidden architectural details designed to fool intruders—these medieval features offer tangible connections to 15th-century life.
- Browse the specialist bookshop for storytelling books, CDs, and resources in the traditional 'luckenbooths'—an excellent place to find gifts or resources for all ages.
- Arrive early during peak season (summer months and festival periods) to secure seating at café tables and avoid crowds in the Storytelling Court.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the Royal Mile in Edinburgh's Old Town. Routes 35, 36, and others stop at High Street near the centre. Journey times from Edinburgh city centre range from 5–15 minutes depending on starting point. Buses run frequently throughout the day. Single fares cost approximately £1.80–£2.00 GBP.
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Taxi
Taxi ranks operate nearby on the Royal Mile and throughout Edinburgh's Old Town. Journey times from Edinburgh Waverley Station (the main railway station) are approximately 10–15 minutes. Fares typically range from £8–£15 GBP depending on traffic and exact starting location. Taxis are readily available throughout the day and evening.
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Walking
The centre is easily accessible on foot from most of Edinburgh's city centre. From Edinburgh Waverley Station, the walk takes approximately 10–12 minutes uphill along the Royal Mile. From the Scottish National Gallery, the walk is approximately 8–10 minutes. The Royal Mile has uneven cobblestone surfaces and steep gradients in places; comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
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Parking
Street parking and dedicated car parks operate in Edinburgh's Old Town near the centre. The nearest major car park is approximately 2–3 minutes' walk away. Parking costs vary but typically range from £1.50–£3.00 GBP per hour. Advance booking services such as 'Your Parking Space' and 'Just Park' allow you to reserve spaces in advance or check same-day availability.
John Knox House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about John Knox House
A Modern Home for Scotland's Ancient Art
The Scottish Storytelling Centre stands as a landmark achievement in cultural preservation and contemporary performance. Opened in 2006, it was the first venue of its kind anywhere in the world—purpose-built exclusively for the live art of storytelling. Designed by Malcolm Fraser Architects, the building occupies a prominent position halfway along Edinburgh's Royal Mile, one of Scotland's most historically significant streets. The centre's creation represented a bold commitment to honouring the oral traditions that have shaped Scottish identity for centuries, ensuring that storytelling—once the primary means of transmitting culture, history, and imagination—remains vibrant and accessible to modern audiences. The building itself embodies a fascinating dialogue between old and new. Its contemporary architecture seamlessly incorporates the historic John Knox House, a 15th-century structure dating to 1470 that stands as one of the oldest original medieval buildings surviving on the Royal Mile. This integration is not merely architectural; it reflects the centre's core mission to connect past and present, allowing visitors to experience Scotland's stories within spaces that themselves carry centuries of history.Spaces Designed for Connection and Discovery
Within the centre, multiple performance and exhibition spaces serve different purposes and audiences. The Netherbow Theatre, with its 99-seat capacity, hosts intimate performances ranging from traditional storytelling to contemporary theatre and music. The George Mackay Brown Library provides a quiet space for research and reflection, honouring the legacy of the celebrated Orkney writer. The Storytelling Court, a light and airy public space, serves as the social heart of the venue—a welcoming gathering place where visitors can browse exhibitions, enjoy refreshments, or simply absorb the creative atmosphere. This court includes Scotland's Stories, a free child-friendly exhibition that introduces visitors to the nation's narrative traditions. The Haggis Box Café (formerly the Storytelling Cafe) offers homemade lunches, coffees, snacks, wines, and beers in a relaxed setting. A specialist bookshop, housed in John Knox House's traditional 'luckenbooths', stocks storytelling books, CDs, and resources for all ages and interests. These amenities transform the centre from a performance venue into a genuine community gathering place where locals and visitors alike can linger, learn, and connect.John Knox House: Five Centuries of Drama and History
John Knox House deserves particular attention for its extraordinary historical significance. Built around 1470, it witnessed some of the most turbulent events in Scottish history—the Scottish Reformation, a period that sparked civil war and led to the abdication of Mary, Queen of Scots. Although John Knox himself occupied the house only briefly before his death in 1572, his association with it proved crucial to its survival. In the 1840s, when demolition threatened the building, Knox's historical connection saved it from destruction. During excavations, time-capsules were discovered buried in the gable wall, commemorating the moment the building was rescued from oblivion. Today, visitors can explore the house as a museum, walking in the footsteps of its famous inhabitants and discovering architectural tricks and traps designed to fool intruders. The Oak Room ceiling famously conceals a hidden devil in its carved decoration—a detail that has delighted and intrigued visitors for centuries. The house offers a tangible connection to Scotland's Reformation era, making abstract history visceral and immediate.A Year-Round Calendar of Cultural Events
The centre's programming reflects its commitment to celebrating Scotland's living culture. Throughout the year, storytelling performances, theatrical productions, musical concerts, dance performances, exhibitions, workshops, and family events create an ever-changing calendar. The centre hosts two major annual festivals: the Scottish International Storytelling Festival each October, internationally recognised as a leader in its field and one of Edinburgh's eleven official festivals, and a vibrant programme during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe each August. These festivals attract performers and audiences from across the globe, cementing Edinburgh's status as a world capital of storytelling and traditional arts. The centre's ethos is captured in a Scottish Traveller proverb: "The story is told eye to eye, mind to mind and heart to heart." This philosophy of intimate human connection, creative inclusivity, and shared imagination guides all programming and visitor experiences. Whether attending a professional performance, participating in a workshop, exploring a temporary exhibition, or simply sitting in the Storytelling Court with a coffee, visitors encounter spaces designed to foster imagination, connection, and cultural understanding.Location and Accessibility Within Edinburgh's Historic Heart
Situated at 43-45 High Street in Edinburgh's Old Town, the centre occupies one of the city's most vibrant and historically dense neighbourhoods. The Royal Mile itself stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, lined with historic buildings, museums, galleries, and attractions. The Scottish Storytelling Centre's position places it within easy walking distance of major sites including Calton Hill (offering panoramic city views), the Scottish National Gallery, and numerous other cultural institutions. Public transport connections are excellent, with bus routes serving the area and taxi ranks nearby. Parking is available in the surrounding neighbourhood, with several dedicated parking services operating in the Old Town.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
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Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
Wellhead at John Knox House
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Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
124 High St
0.2 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
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.
North Bridge
0.3 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
The High Street Wellhead
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
0.3 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Adam Smith Statue
0.3 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
0.3 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Barrie's Close
0.3 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
Mercat Cross
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
The Real Mary King's Close
0.3 km
Discover the hidden history of Edinburgh at The Real Mary King's Close, a captivating underground adventure that reveals the city's fascinating past.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
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Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Scottish Storytelling Centre
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Discover Scotland’s rich storytelling heritage in Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural hub blending medieval charm with contemporary arts.
Museum of Childhood
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The world’s first museum dedicated to childhood, packed with toys, games, and memories from the 1800s to today on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The World's End
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A snug, centuries‑stitched Royal Mile pub where Flodden Wall stone, local ales and hearty Scottish plates meet old‑town atmosphere.
Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft Ltd
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Discover Edinburgh’s intimate museum exploring the rich history and practices of magic, witchcraft, and fortune-telling in a cozy, atmospheric setting.
Little Fish Tours
0.1 km
Experience Edinburgh like never before with Little Fish Tours, where local insights meet unforgettable adventures in Scotland's enchanting capital.
The Chocolatarium
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s interactive chocolate micro-factory where you craft, taste, and discover over 40 artisan chocolates in a historic Old Town setting.
The Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier gin destination with immersive tours, bespoke blends, and stunning city views at The Arches.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.1 km
Discover the heart of Edinburgh's culinary scene at the Royal Mile Tavern, a must-visit pub offering local flavors and vibrant atmosphere.
St. Patrick
0.1 km
Historic Catholic church in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending neoclassical architecture with deep Irish community roots and serene spiritual ambiance.
Wee Ecosse - visites guidées en français à Edimbourg
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich history and culture through engaging French-language guided walking tours in the heart of the Old Town.
Tron Kirk Market
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s historic 17th-century Tron Kirk transformed into a vibrant indoor market showcasing Scotland’s finest arts and crafts.
St Cecilia’s Hall: Concert Room & Music Museum, The University of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Scotland’s oldest purpose-built concert hall, now a museum of historic instruments and intimate live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Royal Mile
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile – a vibrant cobbled artery linking castle, cathedral, and palace through centuries of Scottish heritage.
Hunter Square
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Historic Hunter Square, a serene crossroads behind Tron Kirk, blends Edinburgh’s rich heritage with peaceful urban charm.
City of Edinburgh Tours
0.2 km
Explore Edinburgh’s haunted underground and historic Old Town with immersive ghost and history tours from the iconic Old Police Box.
Essential places to dine
Monteiths
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Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
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Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
La Garrigue
0.1 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
Wedgwood The Restaurant
0.1 km
Fine dining on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with seasonal Scottish cuisine and foraged ingredients in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
The Piper's Rest
0.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
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.
Tolbooth Tavern
0.3 km
Historic Royal Mile pub blending 400 years of Scottish history with authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
Ecco Vino
0.3 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.4 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Howies Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.
Number One
0.4 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
The Devil's Advocate
0.4 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Duck & Waffle
0.5 km
A playful modern British restaurant in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, famed for its signature duck and waffle and vibrant, Instagrammable atmosphere.
Twenty Princes Street
0.5 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
The Cellar Door
0.5 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Heritage Clearance Store
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Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
Real Scot Shop
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Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
The Wee Gift Shop
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Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
Ragamuffin
0.1 km
Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
scottish experience cashmere place
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Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Scotland Shop
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Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Crest Of Edinburgh
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.3 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish kilts and Highland dress on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Galaxy
0.3 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Eden
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Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Fringe Shop
0.3 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.3 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
The Wyrd Shop
0.3 km
Edinburgh's esoteric gem on Canongate: crystals, tarot, pagan jewelry, and magickal handmade treasures in a cozy witchy haven.
Pure Scottish
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Geeks
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Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
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A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Whistlebinkies
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Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Banshee Labyrinth
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Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
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Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Copper Still
0.3 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Captain's Bar
0.4 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
The Three Sisters
0.4 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Cask
0.4 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
0.5 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.5 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.5 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.
Frankenstein
0.5 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
0.6 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Jolly Judge
0.6 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.2 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
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Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
0.5 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.5 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
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.6 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
0.8 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.
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.
Opal Lounge
0.9 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
1.1 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
1.3 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
