St James Quarter, Edinburgh’s Premier Retail and Leisure Destination

Edinburgh’s largest retail and leisure district, blending shopping, dining, entertainment, and luxury stays in the city centre.

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St James Quarter

St James Quarter is Edinburgh’s largest retail and leisure district, located in the heart of the city centre. Opened in 2021 on the site of the former St. James Centre, it offers over 80 shops including high-end and high-street brands, more than 40 restaurants and bars, a boutique Everyman Cinema, and luxury hotels like W Edinburgh. With spacious parking, EV charging bays, and excellent transport links, it is a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, entertainment, and urban living.

A brief summary to St James Quarter

St James Cres, Edinburgh, EH1 3AD, GB
+441312901118
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 5 hours
Mid ranged
Mixed
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 9 am-8 pm
Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
Thursday 9 am-8 pm
Friday 9 am-8 pm
Saturday 9 am-8 pm
Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

Visit on weekdays or early mornings to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience.
Explore the upper floors for luxury brands and the champagne bar, perfect for a stylish break.
Take advantage of the extensive EV charging bays if you’re driving an electric vehicle.
Check the St James Quarter website for up-to-date restaurant and leisure opening hours as they vary.

Getting There

Train

From Edinburgh Waverley Station, it is a 10-15 minute walk to St James Quarter through city centre streets. The station is well connected to regional and national rail services, with frequent trains from surrounding areas. Walking terrain is flat and accessible.
Tram

Take the Edinburgh Tram to St Andrew Square or Picardy Place stops, both within a 5-10 minute walk to St James Quarter. Trams run every 7-10 minutes during the day, with tickets costing around £1.80-£4.00 depending on zones.
Bus

Multiple Lothian Bus routes serve stops near St James Quarter, including Princes Street and Leith Street. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with a single fare around £1.80-£2.00. Walking from bus stops is generally under 10 minutes on paved city streets.
Car

Driving to St James Quarter offers access to a large car park with over 1,600 spaces including EV charging bays and disabled parking. Parking rates vary but typically range from £3 to £5 per hour. Booking parking in advance via the Quarter’s app is recommended to ensure availability.

St James Quarter location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about St James Quarter

A Modern Retail and Lifestyle Hub in Edinburgh

St James Quarter stands as a transformative development in Edinburgh’s city centre, revitalizing the historic east end of New Town. Built on the site of the former St. James Centre and adjacent office buildings, it opened in June 2021 and was officially inaugurated by HRH Princess Royal in September 2022. The Quarter integrates retail, leisure, hospitality, and residential spaces, creating a dynamic urban district designed for locals and visitors alike.

Extensive Shopping and Dining Experiences

The retail galleria spans approximately 850,000 square feet, accommodating 80 diverse retail units. It hosts a wide range of brands from luxury names such as Boss, Coach, Polo Ralph Lauren, and COS to popular high-street stores including Zara, H&M, and Pull & Bear. The John Lewis & Partners store anchors the centre, offering a department store experience comparable to renowned European galleries. Complementing the shopping are over 40 restaurants and bars, featuring acclaimed venues like Gordon Ramsay Street Burger, Duck and Waffle, Bonnie & Wild food hall, and Ka Pao, catering to varied tastes and dining preferences.

Entertainment and Accommodation Offerings

Beyond shopping and dining, St James Quarter includes a boutique Everyman Cinema, providing a premium movie-going experience. The Quarter also hosts Scotland’s first W Hotel, a striking 12-storey building opened in late 2023, alongside the Roomzzz Aparthotel and residential apartments. These additions position the Quarter as a destination for extended stays, combining luxury accommodation with immediate access to entertainment and retail.

Accessibility and Facilities for Visitors

The Quarter is designed with convenience and sustainability in mind. It offers over 1,600 parking spaces across three levels, including 70 disabled bays, family parking near welcome points, motorcycle and scooter spaces, and 45 electric vehicle charging stations—the largest concentration in Scotland. Bicycle racks are also available nearby. The location benefits from excellent public transport connections, being close to Edinburgh Waverley railway station, Edinburgh Bus Station, and tram stops at St Andrew Square and Picardy Place.

Architectural and Urban Impact

The development respects Edinburgh’s historic urban fabric while introducing contemporary architectural elements. Its open, airy galleria design allows natural light to flood the retail spaces, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The nearby “Ribbon Hotel” has sparked discussion due to its distinctive shape, which some say resembles a walnut or an emoji, highlighting the balance between modern design and heritage preservation in this UNESCO World Heritage city.

A Vibrant City Centre Experience Year-Round

St James Quarter offers a lively calendar of events, pop-ups, and seasonal activities, ensuring there is always something new to discover. The guest services team enhances the visitor experience with amenities such as luggage storage, mobility assistance, and concierge services. The Quarter’s blend of shopping, dining, entertainment, and accommodation makes it a focal point for Edinburgh’s urban life, welcoming a diverse audience throughout the year.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Waterloo Pl

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Scottish-American Soldiers Monument

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Martyrs of Reform Monument

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Dugald Stewart Monument

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Waverley Steps

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Melville Monument

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North Bridge

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St Andrew Square & George St

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James Clerk Maxwell Statue

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Unmissable attractions to see