Rose Street: Edinburgh’s Historic and Lively Hidden Gem
A lively, historic pedestrian street in Edinburgh’s New Town, famed for its pubs, boutique shops, and rich literary heritage.
Nestled in Edinburgh’s New Town, Rose Street is a charming, narrow pedestrian street famed for its vibrant pubs, boutique shops, and rich literary history. Running parallel to Princes Street and George Street, this atmospheric street blends historic architecture with a lively social scene, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Edinburgh’s cultural heritage and contemporary urban life.
A brief summary to Rose St
- Edinburgh, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in the evening to experience Rose Street’s vibrant pub scene and enjoy traditional Scottish hospitality.
- Explore the small shops and boutiques during the day for unique gifts and local products.
- Look for the artistic installations on the BT Telephone Exchange facade celebrating the Rose Street poets.
- Take time to appreciate the street’s architectural details, including the Kenilworth Bar and Eagle Buildings.
- Combine your visit with nearby Princes Street and George Street for a fuller New Town experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several Lothian Bus routes serve stops near Rose Street, including routes 1, 3, and 27. From Edinburgh city center, travel times range from 10 to 20 minutes depending on route and traffic. Buses run frequently throughout the day with ticket prices around £1.80–£2.00.
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Tram and Walk
Take the Edinburgh Trams to Princes Street stop, approximately a 5-minute walk to Rose Street. Trams operate every 7-10 minutes, with tickets costing about £1.80 for a single journey within the city center.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services are widely available in Edinburgh. From the city center, a short 5-minute ride to Rose Street typically costs £5–£8, depending on traffic and time of day.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Edinburgh’s New Town or Old Town, Rose Street is easily accessible on foot. The pedestrian-friendly street is flat and suitable for all fitness levels, with walking times ranging from 5 to 15 minutes depending on your starting point.
Rose St location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Rose St
A Storied Past in Edinburgh’s New Town
Rose Street was constructed between 1770 and 1781 as part of Edinburgh’s New Town development, designed to complement the grander Princes and George Streets. Its name, symbolizing England’s rose, pairs with nearby Thistle Street, representing Scotland. Originally lined with modest three-storey houses, Rose Street evolved quickly from residential use to a bustling shopping street by the early 19th century. The street underwent significant changes in the 20th century, including a 1970s reconstruction introducing a distinctive scalloped concrete canopy, reflecting the city council’s modernization efforts.A Hub of Social and Literary Life
Rose Street has long been known for its many pubs and bars, which have served as gathering spots for Edinburgh’s literary figures and locals alike. In the mid-20th century, it became a haunt for Scottish Renaissance poets such as Hugh MacDiarmid, who met in venues like Milne’s Bar, nicknamed the “Little Kremlin.” The street’s pubs often carry names reflecting literary heritage, including the Kenilworth and Abbotsford, named after Sir Walter Scott’s home. This vibrant social scene continues today, with a mix of traditional and quirky bars offering a lively nightlife.Shopping and Urban Character
Though overshadowed by Princes Street’s grand retail offerings, Rose Street maintains its own distinctive shopping character. It hosts a variety of small businesses, from hairdressers and shoe shops to record stores and a late-closing Sainsbury’s. Many major Princes Street stores have back entrances here, linking the two streets functionally. The street’s pedestrianisation in the 1980s enhanced its appeal as a relaxed urban space, providing shelter and intimacy amid the bustle of central Edinburgh.Architectural and Cultural Highlights
Rose Street’s architecture is a blend of vernacular 18th-century buildings and 20th-century interventions. Notable structures include the Kenilworth Bar by Thomas P. Marwick and the Eagle Buildings by George Washington Browne. The BT Rose Street Telephone Exchange, a key telecommunications hub, also stands here, its facade adorned with artistic installations celebrating the Rose Street poets, adding a contemporary cultural layer to the historic street.The Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The street’s narrow, sheltered layout creates an intimate atmosphere contrasting with the grander New Town avenues. It is a favored spot for locals and visitors seeking convivial pubs, unique shops, and a taste of Edinburgh’s literary and social heritage. The street’s proximity to views of the Firth of Forth adds a scenic backdrop, while its pedestrianised nature invites leisurely exploration and discovery.Rose Street Today: A Living Edinburgh Icon
Today, Rose Street remains a vibrant artery in Edinburgh’s city center, balancing its historic roots with contemporary urban life. It is a place where history, culture, and everyday city rhythms converge, offering an authentic Edinburgh experience. Whether enjoying a pint in a historic pub, browsing boutique shops, or simply soaking up the street’s lively ambiance, visitors find Rose Street a memorable highlight of the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of King George Ⅳ
0.2 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.3 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
0.4 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.4 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Lady Stair's Close
0.5 km
Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
Melville Monument
0.5 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Lady Stair's House
0.5 km
Explore Lady Stair's House: A historic 17th-century building in Edinburgh celebrating Scotland's rich literary heritage and home to the Scottish Poetry Library.
Milne's Court
0.5 km
Discover Milne's Court, a captivating historical landmark in Edinburgh, where the past meets the present in a picturesque setting.
St Andrew Square
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture and historic charm of St Andrew Square, a must-visit destination in the heart of Edinburgh.
Gladstone's Land
0.5 km
Explore the historic charm of Gladstone's Land in Edinburgh, a captivating glimpse into Scotland's rich past with delightful cafes and stunning architecture.
The Georgian House
0.5 km
Discover the elegance of 18th-century life at The Georgian House, a historical museum in Edinburgh's charming Charlotte Square.
Lawnmarket
0.5 km
Discover Lawnmarket, a historic street in Edinburgh rich in culture, shopping, and stunning medieval architecture, perfect for an unforgettable visit.
David Hume Statue
0.6 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
15 Charlotte Square
0.6 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
0.6 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Unmissable attractions to see
Panoramic view Castle
0.1 km
Discover breathtaking, near eye-level views of Edinburgh Castle framed by historic gardens and vibrant city life at Princes Street.
Assembly Rooms
0.1 km
Timeless Georgian elegance meets vibrant cultural life in Edinburgh’s iconic Assembly Rooms on George Street.
Princes St
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s bustling main street with stunning views, historic gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant shopping in the heart of the city.
Princes Street Gardens
0.2 km
Historic urban oasis in Edinburgh’s heart, featuring iconic monuments, seasonal events, and stunning views beneath the castle.
Floral Clock
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s iconic Floral Clock, a vibrant living timepiece blooming with seasonal flowers in the heart of Princes Street Gardens.
The Royal Scottish Academy
0.2 km
Discover Scotland’s premier artist-led institution showcasing fine art and architecture in a historic Edinburgh landmark.
Roxy Lanes Edinburgh Rose Street
0.3 km
A vibrant city centre hotspot offering bowling, games, American-style eats, and lively entertainment on Edinburgh’s Rose Street.
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.
National Galleries of Scotland: National
0.3 km
Explore centuries of Scottish and international art in Edinburgh’s iconic National Gallery, featuring masterpieces from Vermeer to the Glasgow Boys.
The Dome
0.3 km
Experience the elegance of The Dome in Edinburgh, where exquisite dining, vibrant cocktails, and afternoon tea await in a stunning Georgian setting.
Ross Fountain
0.3 km
A dazzling Victorian cast-iron fountain beneath Edinburgh Castle, blending French artistry with Scottish heritage in vibrant color.
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.
One O’Clock Gun
0.3 km
Experience Edinburgh’s iconic One O’Clock Gun, a historic maritime time signal fired daily from Edinburgh Castle since 1861.
Edinburgh Castle - Mill's Mount Battery
0.4 km
Historic fortress atop Castle Rock offering iconic views, royal treasures, and rich Scottish military heritage in the heart of Edinburgh.
Heriot Row
0.4 km
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.
Essential places to dine
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.2 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
Contini George Street
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Badger & Co
0.2 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
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.
BABA
0.4 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Amarone
0.4 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.
Aizle
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
0.4 km
Elegant British brasserie with Scottish flair, inventive cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Edinburgh
0.5 km
Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature British dishes and vibrant bar scene in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic St Andrew Square.
The Table
0.5 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Gaucho Edinburgh
0.5 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium Pampas beef and elegant ambiance in Edinburgh’s vibrant city center.
Amber Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.5 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Dishoom Edinburgh
0.5 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.
Makars Mash Bar
0.5 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Edinburgh Gifts
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
The Treasure Trove
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Great Scot
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Scottish Design Exchange
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.4 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
The Court Curio Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
One World Shop
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
House of Scotland
0.5 km
Explore authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at the House of Scotland, located on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
Greyfriars Art
0.5 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
Olde Edinburgh
0.5 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
Heritage of Scotland
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
I Love Scotland
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at I Love Scotland, a welcoming shop in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic center.
Scottish Experience
0.5 km
Explore the essence of Scotland with unique gifts and authentic souvenirs at the Scottish Experience in Edinburgh.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.5 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Never Really Here
0.2 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
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.
Copper Blossom
0.2 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
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.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.2 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Lucky Liquor Co
0.2 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
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.
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.3 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
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.
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 Jolly Judge
0.5 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.
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.
The Caley Bar
0.6 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.
The Bow Bar
0.6 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
0.6 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
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.1 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Opal Lounge
0.1 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
El Barrio Latino
0.2 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.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.3 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
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.
Why Not Nightclub
0.3 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.3 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
The Liquid Room
0.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Club Tropicana
0.6 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
The Bongo Club
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
0.7 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
0.7 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.9 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
La Belle Angele
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
- Fun-filled
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Nature Escape
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
