Princes St, Edinburgh Travel Guide

Princes Street is the principal street in Edinburgh’s New Town, laid out in the late 18th century during the reign of King George III. Named after his two sons, Princes George and Frederick, this street was originally a prestigious residential area for the wealthy, many of whose elegant 18th-century townhouses still stand, albeit repurposed as shops and businesses. Today, Princes Street is a bustling retail hub lined with popular high street stores, cafes, banks, and hotels, making it a vital artery for both locals and visitors.

Running along the south side of Princes Street, Princes Street Gardens is a large, historic public park that separates the New Town from Edinburgh’s Old Town. The gardens occupy the drained site of the Nor Loch, a former marsh and medieval defensive barrier. Opened in 1820, the gardens are divided into East and West sections by The Mound, an artificial hill crowned by the Scottish National Gallery. The gardens feature notable monuments including the Ross Fountain, the Scott Monument, and the Floral Clock, and serve as a popular venue for seasonal events such as the Winter Wonderland Christmas Market.

Princes Street is framed by striking landmarks that enrich its character. The Scott Monument, a towering Gothic spire dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, offers panoramic views of the city from its viewing platforms. Nearby, the Scottish National Gallery houses a renowned collection of European and Scottish art in a neoclassical building designed by William Henry Playfair. The street also features historic hotels like The Balmoral and Caledonian, adding to the architectural diversity.

Princes Street and its gardens transform during the festive season into a lively Winter Wonderland, complete with a Christmas market, ice rink, Ferris wheel, and family-friendly attractions. The street also plays a central role in Edinburgh’s Hogmanay New Year celebrations, hosting one of the world’s most famous street parties. Throughout the year, the Ross Bandstand in the gardens hosts concerts and cultural events, making Princes Street a vibrant social and entertainment hub.

The site of Princes Street Gardens was once the Nor Loch, infamous for its use in medieval times as a defensive moat and a place associated with grim practices such as witch ducking. The transformation from marshland to manicured gardens symbolizes Edinburgh’s evolution from a fortified medieval city to a modern capital. Statues and memorials scattered throughout the gardens commemorate notable Scots and historical events, including the Polish soldier bear Wojtek, linking Scotland’s heritage to global stories.

Visitors to Princes Street enjoy a dynamic blend of shopping, history, and scenic beauty. The street offers unparalleled views across the gardens to the dramatic Castle Rock and Old Town skyline. The gardens provide tranquil green space amidst the urban bustle, ideal for leisurely strolls, photography, and relaxation. With its combination of cultural institutions, historic monuments, and vibrant retail, Princes Street remains a quintessential Edinburgh experience.