Best Attractions Near Scott Monument (Edinburgh)
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The best attractions near Scott Monument
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48 attractions
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Park and Garden4.6★25,226 reviews
Princes Street Gardens
Princes Street Gardens is a sprawling public park in central Edinburgh, nestled in the valley between the Old Town and New Town beneath Edinburgh Castle. Spanning over 37 acres, it is divided into East and West sections by The Mound, home to the Scottish National Gallery. Created in the 1820s by draining the medieval Nor Loch, the gardens offer a peaceful retreat with iconic monuments, vibrant flower displays, and seasonal events like the Christmas Market and Hogmanay concerts.
Daily 7:00–21:35Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Art gallery4.6★14,447 reviews
National Galleries of Scotland: National
Situated on The Mound in Edinburgh, the National Galleries of Scotland: National houses a world-class collection of international and Scottish art from 1300 to 1945. Visitors can explore masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt, Titian, Vermeer, and Velázquez alongside a rich display of Scottish art including works by Sir Henry Raeburn and Charles Rennie Mackintosh. The gallery offers free admission, spectacular city views, and a welcoming atmosphere for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Daily 10:00–17:00Time to spend 1.5–4 hrs
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Historical landmark4.5★10,981 reviews
The Real Mary King's Close
Beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile lies The Real Mary King’s Close, a preserved 17th-century street where history comes alive. Walk through narrow, candle-lit closes and hear stories of plague, poverty, and daily life in old Edinburgh. Guided tours take you into the city’s underground world, revealing how people lived, worked, and died in these once-bustling alleyways. It’s a gripping journey into the darker side of Scotland’s capital, perfect for history lovers and those seeking something truly different.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Cathedral4.6★9,919 reviews
St Giles' Cathedral
St Giles' Cathedral, located on Edinburgh's Royal Mile, is a historic church founded in 1124 and central to Scotland’s religious and civic life. Known as the 'Mother Kirk' of Presbyterianism, it features stunning Gothic architecture, the ornate Thistle Chapel, and vibrant stained glass windows. Visitors can explore its rich history, enjoy musical events, and appreciate its role in Scotland’s Reformation and cultural heritage.
Price level $Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
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Shopping Centre4.0★10,717 reviews
Waverley Market
Situated on Waverley Bridge in the heart of Edinburgh, Waverley Market is a bustling shopping centre blending historic charm with contemporary retail. It offers a diverse range of shops, eateries, and services, making it a lively destination for locals and visitors alike. Open daily with extended hours during festive seasons, it provides a dynamic shopping experience just steps from the city’s iconic landmarks.
Daily 9:00–19:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.5★6,058 reviews
The Edinburgh Dungeon
The Edinburgh Dungeon offers a thrilling, immersive experience exploring Scotland's darkest history through live actors, theatrical sets, special effects, and rides. Located at 31 Market Place, it features interactive shows based on real historical events, including tales of witches, criminals, and ghosts. Visitors enjoy a unique underground journey lasting about 75 minutes, suitable for ages 8 and up, with a mix of scares and humor in a richly themed environment.
Mon–Fri 11:00–16:00 · Sat–Sun 10:30–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Pub4.4★5,573 reviews
Deacon Brodies Tavern
Deacon Brodies Tavern is a renowned historic pub located at 435 Lawnmarket on Edinburgh's Royal Mile. Named after William Brodie, an 18th-century cabinet maker and city councillor who led a double life as a burglar, the tavern offers a rich blend of history, traditional Scottish ales, and classic pub fare. Its striking interior and connection to Edinburgh’s darker past make it a compelling stop for visitors exploring the city’s heritage.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Art gallery4.7★4,854 reviews
National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait
Housed in a stunning Neo-Gothic building in Edinburgh’s New Town, the National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait showcases Scotland’s rich history and culture through an extensive collection of portraits. From historic monarchs and cultural icons to contemporary figures, the gallery offers a captivating journey through Scottish identity. Visitors can also explore photography collections, enjoy family-friendly activities, and relax in the adjoining Café Portrait.
Daily 10:00–17:00Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Monument4.7★4,771 reviews
Scott Monument
The Scott Monument is the world’s largest monument dedicated to a writer, commemorating Sir Walter Scott. This striking Victorian Gothic spire rises 200 feet above East Princes Street Gardens, featuring intricate statues of characters from Scott’s novels. Visitors can climb its 287 steps to panoramic viewing platforms offering breathtaking vistas of Edinburgh’s skyline, including Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.
Daily 10:00–12:30, 13:45–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
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Scottish4.5★2,215 reviews
Whiski Rooms
Whiski Rooms is a celebrated whisky bar, restaurant, and shop located just off Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile. Renowned for its extensive collection of over 300 whiskies, daily whisky tastings, and a menu featuring fresh Scottish produce, it offers an immersive experience for whisky lovers and food enthusiasts alike. The venue combines a warm, inviting atmosphere with knowledgeable staff and stunning views over Princes Street, making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic Scottish flavours and culture.
Daily 10:00–24:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Stand Comedy Club
The Stand Comedy Club in Edinburgh is a renowned live comedy venue known for its intimate basement atmosphere, hosting a mix of seasoned comedians and emerging talent. Located at 5 York Place, it offers a vibrant night out with sharp wit, audience interaction, and a lively bar setting, making it a must-visit for comedy enthusiasts seeking authentic Scottish humor and a cozy, engaging environment.
Daily 10:00–24:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
The Writers' Museum
Nestled in Lady Stair's Close off Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile, The Writers' Museum celebrates the lives and works of Scotland's literary giants Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Housed in a charming 17th-century townhouse, the museum showcases rare manuscripts, personal belongings, and first editions, offering an intimate glimpse into Scotland's rich literary heritage. Free to enter, it is a cultural gem for literature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Daily 10:00–17:00Time to spend 0.5–1 hr
Multrees Walk
Multrees Walk is Edinburgh’s foremost luxury shopping precinct, located in the heart of the city centre. This stylish pedestrian street links St Andrew Square with the St James Quarter and is home to Scotland’s only Harvey Nichols, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Burberry, Max Mara, and other exclusive designer brands. Offering a curated collection of high-end fashion, accessories, and lifestyle goods, Multrees Walk combines impeccable customer service with a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a must-visit for discerning shoppers.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Princes St
Princes Street is Edinburgh’s iconic main shopping street, stretching about a mile through the New Town with bustling shops on one side and the scenic Princes Street Gardens on the other. This vibrant thoroughfare offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town skyline, blending historic charm with modern retail and cultural landmarks such as the Scott Monument and the Scottish National Gallery.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Assembly Rooms
Located at 54 George Street, the Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh is a grand late 18th-century venue renowned for its elegant Georgian architecture and rich social history. Originally built in 1787 as a hub for high society balls and gatherings, it now serves as a versatile event space hosting everything from conferences and concerts to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Its stunning interiors feature a magnificent ballroom, a music hall, and exquisite period details that blend timeless elegance with modern functionality.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Roxy Lanes Edinburgh Rose Street
Roxy Lanes Edinburgh Rose Street is a lively games bar located in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town. Featuring eight full-sized bowling lanes, ice-free curling lanes, and a variety of other games like beer pong, shuffleboard, and American pool, it offers a dynamic entertainment experience. The venue also boasts a diverse menu of pizzas, snacks, and cocktails, making it a popular spot for casual outings, parties, and group events.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Gladstone's Land
Gladstone's Land is one of Edinburgh’s oldest surviving tenement houses, located on the historic Royal Mile. Preserved by the National Trust for Scotland, it offers a unique glimpse into urban life from the 1600s through the 19th century. Visitors explore richly decorated apartments with original painted ceilings, period furnishings, and immersive exhibits that reveal the social and commercial history of Old Town. The ground-floor café and ice cream parlour provide a modern yet historically inspired refreshment stop.
Daily 10:00–20:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
City Art Centre
Located at 2 Market Street in the heart of Edinburgh, the City Art Centre is a leading gallery dedicated to Scottish visual and applied arts. Housed in a striking nine-storey former warehouse, it showcases a nationally recognized collection of Scottish art from the 17th century to the present, alongside a dynamic programme of temporary exhibitions. The centre offers free admission to its permanent collections, with some charges for special exhibitions, and features amenities including a café and gift shop.
Daily 10:00–17:00Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Museum on the Mound
Situated within the historic Bank of Scotland Head Office on The Mound, Edinburgh, the Museum on the Mound offers a fascinating exploration of money, banking, and Scotland's financial history. Visitors can see Scotland’s earliest banknotes, a real million pounds in cash, and interactive exhibits including safe-cracking and model-building activities. The museum blends education with hands-on experiences, is free to enter, and provides panoramic views over Edinburgh’s cityscape.
Tue–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat 13:00–17:00Time to spend 1–2 hrs
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a world-renowned annual event held on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, showcasing a spectacular display of military music, dance, and precision drill. Running every August, it unites performers from over 48 countries in a vibrant celebration of Scottish heritage and global culture. The Tattoo Office at 1-3 Cockburn Street in Edinburgh serves as the ticketing and information hub for this iconic festival.
Mon–Fri 10:00–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
The Royal Scottish Academy
The Royal Scottish Academy (RSA), located on The Mound in Edinburgh, is a prestigious independent institution founded in 1826 to promote and support Scottish art and architecture. Housed in a historic William Henry Playfair–designed building shared with the National Gallery of Scotland, the RSA hosts year-round exhibitions, educational events, and awards, fostering creativity and cultural heritage across Scotland.
Mon–Sat 10:00–17:00 · Sun 12:00–17:00Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Cask
Perched atop Waverley Mall on Princes Street, Cask Smugglers is a lively rooftop cocktail bar known for its panoramic Old Town views, heated private domes, creative cocktails and a compact menu of Peruvian-inspired small plates. A mix of industrial interiors and outdoor terrace seating makes it a flexible spot for sunset drinks, group get-togethers or a cosy night in one of the domes.
Mon–Wed 12:00–1:00 · Thu–Sun 11:00–1:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–3 hrs
Floral Clock
The Floral Clock in Edinburgh’s West Princes Street Gardens is the world’s oldest floral clock, created in 1903. This unique timepiece combines horticultural artistry with precise clockwork, featuring tens of thousands of colorful plants arranged in a functioning clock face. It blooms annually from July to October and is maintained by dedicated gardeners, making it a charming and whimsical landmark near the National Galleries.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.2–1 hr
Assembly Hall
The Assembly Hall, perched on Mound Place in Edinburgh's Old Town, is a striking 19th-century building renowned for its stunning multi-tiered interior and black-and-white marble corridor. It serves as the meeting place for the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland and is a prestigious venue for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, hosting a diverse range of performances including theatre, music, and circus. With its rich history and elegant architecture, it remains a cultural landmark in Scotland's capital.
Daily 10:00–24:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Cockburn St
Cockburn Street is a distinctive serpentine street in Edinburgh’s Old Town, linking the historic Royal Mile to Waverley Station. Built in 1856–59 and named after Lord Henry Cockburn, a noted conservationist, the street is renowned for its Scots Baronial architecture, quirky shops, cafes, and lively atmosphere. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and contemporary urban life in the heart of Edinburgh.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
East Princes Street Gardens
East Princes Street Gardens is a vibrant and historic public park in the heart of Edinburgh, nestled between the Old Town and New Town. Covering 8.5 acres, it offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the iconic Scott Monument. Created in the 1820s after draining the Nor Loch, the gardens feature beautifully maintained lawns, floral displays, and numerous statues. It serves as a peaceful urban oasis and a hub for seasonal events like the Christmas Market and outdoor concerts.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Scottish Experience
Located at 324-326 Lawnmarket in Edinburgh, the Scottish Experience is a charming gift shop offering a wide range of Scottish-themed items, including popular Harry Potter memorabilia. Situated in the historic Royal Mile area, it provides visitors a cozy spot to explore authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in a vibrant cultural setting.
Daily 9:30–19:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Edinburgh City Chambers
Edinburgh City Chambers, located on the historic Royal Mile at 253 High Street, is a grand neo-classical building originally constructed in the 18th century as the Royal Exchange. Today, it serves as the administrative heart of Edinburgh, housing the City Council and hosting civic events and weddings. Its elegant courtyard, adorned with a bronze statue of Alexander the Great, and richly decorated interiors reflect its storied past and architectural grandeur.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Advocate's Close
Advocate's Close is a narrow, steep historic alley in Edinburgh's Old Town, dating back to the 15th century. Once a fashionable address for Scottish gentry, it is named after Sir James Stewart, Lord Advocate of Scotland. Today, it offers a captivating glimpse into Edinburgh’s medieval past with its cobbled steps, striking architecture, and views framing the Scott Monument. The close connects the Royal Mile to Market Street and is a favorite spot for photographers and history enthusiasts.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
JK Rowling’s Handprints
Located just off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, the golden handprints of J.K. Rowling are embedded in the flagstone courtyard of the historic City Chambers. These handprints commemorate Rowling receiving the Edinburgh Award in 2008, recognizing her significant cultural impact and connection to the city. The courtyard also honors other notable Edinburgh figures, making it a unique tribute to the city’s celebrated citizens.
Time to spend 0.2–1 hr
Lawnmarket
Lawnmarket is a historic section of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, once a bustling market specializing in linen and cloth. It features notable 16th-century buildings like Gladstone's Land and Lady Stair’s House, home to the Writers’ Museum. Rich with royal connections and centuries of urban life, Lawnmarket offers a vivid glimpse into Edinburgh’s past through its preserved architecture, narrow closes, and cultural landmarks.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Edinburgh Underground
Discover the eerie and fascinating Edinburgh Underground Vaults beneath Parliament Square on the Royal Mile. This historic subterranean labyrinth reveals centuries-old vaults once used as workshops, storage, and residences, now shrouded in tales of hardship, crime, and paranormal activity. Guided tours combine chilling ghost stories with rich historical insights, immersing visitors in Edinburgh’s shadowy past and architectural mysteries.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
House of Scotland
Located at 513 Lawnmarket on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile, House of Scotland is a renowned gift shop offering a rich selection of Scottish-themed products. Open daily with extended hours, it serves as a vibrant cultural hub for visitors seeking authentic Scottish crafts, souvenirs, and traditional items in the heart of the city.
Daily 10:00–20:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
The News Steps
The News Steps is a historic stone staircase in Edinburgh’s Old Town, connecting St Giles Street near the Royal Mile with Market Street close to Waverley Station. Built in the mid-19th century as part of a newspaper office complex, these 124 winding steps once facilitated the distribution of printed papers. Today, they provide a pedestrian link between the Old and New Towns, offering a tangible connection to Edinburgh’s rich media history and urban fabric.
Time to spend 0.2–1 hr
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
The Statue of the Fifth Duke of Buccleuch stands proudly in Parliament Square, Edinburgh, near St Giles Cathedral. This ornate bronze monument commemorates Walter Francis Montagu Douglas Scott, a prominent 19th-century Scottish nobleman and politician, depicted wearing the robes of the Order of the Garter. Erected in 1888, the statue rests on a hexagonal pedestal adorned with detailed reliefs illustrating key moments from the Duke's life and legacy.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.2–1 hr
Milne's Court
Milne's Court, built in 1692 by master mason Robert Milne, is one of Edinburgh’s earliest open courts, nestled near the Royal Mile on Lawnmarket. This historic square offers a rare glimpse into 17th-century urban design, featuring preserved architecture and cobbled pathways. Its proximity to Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street makes it a captivating spot for history enthusiasts and visitors exploring the Old Town’s rich heritage.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
John Knox Monument
The John Knox Monument in Edinburgh stands as a tribute to the influential Scottish Reformer who played a pivotal role in the Scottish Reformation. Erected in 1896, this historic monument is located on Mound Place near the University of Edinburgh's New College and commemorates Knox's legacy as a founder of Presbyterianism and a key figure in Scotland's religious transformation.
Time to spend 0.2–1 hr
Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddle's Court
The Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddle's Court is a historic and cultural landmark in Edinburgh's Old Town. Housed in a prestigious 16th-century merchant's tenement, it was restored and transformed by the visionary Patrick Geddes into one of Edinburgh’s first student halls of residence. Today, it serves as a vibrant learning and events venue, blending rich architectural heritage with modern accessibility and environmental enhancements.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
St Andrew Square & George St
At the eastern end of George Street in Edinburgh’s New Town, St Andrew Square is a graceful Georgian garden square framed by neoclassical buildings. Dominated by the towering Melville Monument, it blends historic architecture with modern commerce, offering a peaceful green heart amid the city’s financial and cultural life. Once a private enclave for Edinburgh’s elite, its gardens are now open to all, making it a popular spot for relaxation, events, and people‑watching in the heart of the capital.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
St Andrew Square
St Andrew Square is a distinguished Georgian garden square in Edinburgh’s New Town, renowned for its elegant neoclassical architecture, the towering Melville Monument, and vibrant urban life. Originally designed by James Craig in the late 18th century, it blends historic grandeur with modern commerce, offering tranquil gardens, upscale shopping, and cultural landmarks in a bustling city centre setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Waverley Steps
Waverley Steps is a prominent, modernized pedestrian access point linking Edinburgh’s iconic Waverley Station with Princes Street. Featuring a blend of historic sensitivity and contemporary design, it offers step-free access via lifts, covered escalators, and stylish stairways beneath a glass canopy, providing shelter and panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline. This vital urban connector combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, enhancing the travel experience in Scotland’s capital.
Time to spend 0.2–1 hr
Advocate's Cl
Advocate's Close is a narrow, steep medieval alley in Edinburgh’s Old Town, linking Market Street to the Royal Mile near St Giles Cathedral. Named after Sir James Stewart, Lord Advocate of Scotland in the late 17th century, it was once a fashionable address for Scottish gentry. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into Edinburgh’s layered history with its cobbled steps, historic architecture, and framed views of the Scott Monument.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Anchor Close
Anchor Close is a historic lane located off Cockburn Street in Edinburgh’s Old Town, near the Royal Mile. It offers a glimpse into Edinburgh’s layered past with its narrow, atmospheric passageways and proximity to iconic Scots Baronial architecture. The area is lively, blending historic charm with modern shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks, making it a vibrant spot to explore the city’s unique heritage and urban character.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Lady Stair's House
Nestled in Edinburgh's historic Lawnmarket, Lady Stair's House is a striking 17th-century townhouse built in 1622, now home to the Writers' Museum. The close offers a peaceful retreat from the Royal Mile bustle, featuring literary heritage with exhibits on Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns, and Robert Louis Stevenson, alongside the evocative Makars’ Court. Its richly restored Scots Baronial architecture and atmospheric courtyard make it a unique cultural landmark in the Old Town.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Parliament Sqr
Parliament Square in Edinburgh is a historic and vibrant public space located at the foot of the Royal Mile, near the iconic Scottish Parliament building. Surrounded by medieval architecture and significant landmarks, it serves as a gateway to Edinburgh's Old Town, blending Scotland’s rich political history with contemporary culture and stunning urban scenery.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Edinburgh
The Royal Yacht Britannia, berthed at Ocean Terminal in Leith, Edinburgh, served as the British Royal Family's floating palace for over 40 years. Now a top visitor attraction, it offers a fascinating glimpse into royal life at sea across five decks, featuring the State Apartments, Crew’s Quarters, Engine Room, and the Queen’s favourite Sun Lounge. Visitors enjoy an immersive audio guide, historic exhibitions, and the Royal Deck Tearoom with stunning waterfront views.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–2 hrs
Fleshmarket Cl
Fleshmarket Close is a narrow, atmospheric alley in Edinburgh’s Old Town, historically named after the meat market and slaughterhouse that once operated here. This medieval close links Edinburgh Waverley Station to Cockburn Street and the Royal Mile, steeped in centuries of history including ties to notable residents and plague-era events. Today, it remains a vivid reminder of the city’s past and a popular route for visitors exploring the Old Town’s rich heritage.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Uncovered Edinburgh
Uncovered Edinburgh is an immersive historical experience located at Parliament Square in Edinburgh's Old Town, offering guided tours and self-directed explorations of Scotland's capital. Positioned at the heart of medieval Edinburgh, this attraction specializes in revealing the layered history, hidden stories, and architectural heritage of the city's most significant landmarks. Visitors discover the intricate connections between Parliament House, St Giles' Cathedral, and the surrounding closes, learning about centuries of Scottish political, legal, and cultural significance.
Wed–Sat 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
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Gothic spire honoring Sir Walter Scott with panoramic city views from a challenging 287-step climb in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens.
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