The News Steps, Edinburgh

A Historic Link Between Old and New Towns

The News Steps trace their origins to the mid-1800s when they were constructed as part of the Edinburgh Courant newspaper offices, one of the UK’s earliest regional newspapers established in 1705. The steps served a practical purpose: connecting the newspaper printing house near St Giles Street with Market Street and Waverley Station, where freshly printed papers were swiftly distributed. This functional design reflects Edinburgh’s vibrant media heritage and the importance of print journalism in the city’s development.

Architectural Character and Urban Setting

Winding and steep, the 124 stone steps descend through a narrow thoroughfare, embodying the historic character of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The steps are nestled between tightly packed buildings that blend 19th-century industrial architecture with touches of contemporary renovation. This intimate urban environment conveys the layered history of the city, where medieval street patterns meet Victorian infrastructure. From the top, glimpses of Calton Hill and the New Town skyline frame the scene, enhancing the sense of place.

Connection to Edinburgh’s Newspaper Legacy

The News Steps are named for their association with the newspaper trade, particularly the Edinburgh Courant and later the Daily Review. Notably, Daniel Defoe, famed author of Robinson Crusoe, was an early editor of the Courant. The steps symbolize the role of print media in shaping public discourse and the city’s identity. While the newspaper offices no longer operate here, the steps remain a physical reminder of Edinburgh’s press history and its influence on Scottish culture.

Contemporary Use and Pedestrian Access

After a period of closure during nearby gallery renovations, the News Steps have reopened, restoring pedestrian access between the Old and New Towns without relying on busy roads. They offer locals and visitors a charming, if steep, route that avoids traffic, encouraging foot travel through this historic quarter. The steps’ continued use underscores the city’s commitment to preserving its heritage while adapting to modern urban needs.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

Ascending or descending the News Steps immerses you in Edinburgh’s atmospheric Old Town, with its stone surfaces worn by centuries of footsteps. The narrowness and winding nature of the steps create a sense of intimacy and discovery. Sounds echo between the buildings, and the changing light throughout the day highlights the textures of the stone and brickwork. This pedestrian passage offers a quiet, reflective contrast to the bustling streets nearby.

Nearby Historical Context and Other Staircases

The News Steps are part of a broader network of historic staircases in Edinburgh’s Old Town, each with its own story and character. Nearby, Advocate’s Close offers dramatic views and a link to 16th-century Edinburgh, while the Scotsman Steps showcase a modern artistic intervention with colorful marble. Together, these staircases illustrate the city’s unique topography and rich urban history, inviting exploration beyond the main tourist routes.