Exploring the Historic University of Edinburgh
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the University of Edinburgh, a cultural gem in the heart of Scotland's capital.
The University of Edinburgh, a prestigious institution with a rich history, offers tourists a captivating glimpse into Scotland's academic heritage. With its stunning architecture and vibrant campus life, it's a must-visit for anyone in the city.
A brief summary to The University of Edinburgh
- Old College, South Bridge, Edinburgh, EH8 9YL, GB
- +441316501000
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the week to experience campus life and perhaps catch a lecture or event.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the history and notable alumni of the university.
- Don’t forget to explore the nearby parks for a relaxing break amidst your visit.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are starting from the Edinburgh Waverley Train Station, exit the station and head towards Market Street. Turn left onto Market Street and continue walking straight until you reach North Bridge. Cross North Bridge, and once you reach the other side, take a right onto South Bridge. Continue walking along South Bridge for about 10 minutes, and soon you will see the Old College of the University of Edinburgh on your left at South Bridge, EH8 9YL.
-
Bus
From the Edinburgh city centre, you can catch Lothian Buses 1, 3, 7, 8, 14, or 30 from any bus stop along Princes Street heading towards the Southside. Alight at the stop for South Bridge. After getting off the bus, walk back towards the South Bridge and you will find the Old College of the University of Edinburgh, which will be on your left.
-
Tram
If you are near the Edinburgh Airport, take the tram towards York Place. Get off at the Princes Street stop. From there, walk towards North Bridge, then cross North Bridge and take a right onto South Bridge. Walk straight for about 10 minutes, and you will see the Old College of the University of Edinburgh on your left at South Bridge, EH8 9YL.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
You can easily hail a taxi or use a rideshare app like Uber. Provide the driver with the destination 'Old College, South Bridge, Edinburgh EH8 9YL'. The driver will take you directly to the entrance of the University.
Discover more about The University of Edinburgh
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Meadows Compass
0.3 km
A serene landmark at the heart of Edinburgh’s beloved green space, blending history, community, and nature.
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
0.3 km
Discover the heartwarming tale of Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s beloved loyal Skye Terrier immortalized in bronze near Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Old College, The University of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Iconic 18th-century classical quadrangle housing Edinburgh Law School and University administration in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.4 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
George IV Bridge
0.4 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Flodden Wall
0.5 km
Explore Edinburgh’s medieval Flodden Wall, a historic sandstone fortification built after 1513 to protect the city and shape its iconic Old Town skyline.
Barrie's Close
0.5 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
Uncovered Edinburgh
0.6 km
Discover the untold stories of Edinburgh's rich history and vibrant culture at Uncovered Edinburgh, a must-visit tourist attraction in Scotland's capital.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.6 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
St Giles' Cathedral
0.6 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of St Giles' Cathedral, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Edinburgh.
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
0.6 km
Explore the historical beauty of Edinburgh with a visit to the Statue of the Fifth Duke of Buccleuch, a remarkable sculpture steeped in Scottish heritage.
Mercat Cross
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s iconic Heart of Midlothian mosaic—a historic symbol of justice, tradition, and local lore on the Royal Mile.
Unmissable attractions to see
George Square
0.0 km
Historic Georgian square blending academic heritage, tranquil gardens, and vibrant culture in the heart of Edinburgh.
McEwan Hall, The University of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover the grandeur of McEwan Hall, a historic auditorium in Edinburgh that hosts cultural events and celebrates the city's rich heritage.
The Anatomical Museum, The University of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s rich medical heritage through rare anatomical specimens and historic teaching collections in a unique university museum.
Ballie Ballerson
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Edinburgh at Ballie Ballerson, where cocktails and camaraderie come together in a whimsical pub setting.
Söderberg The Meadows
0.2 km
Experience authentic Swedish pastries and artisanal sourdough delights in a cozy Edinburgh café near the university.
56 North
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail scene at 56 North in Edinburgh, where expertly crafted drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
0.3 km
Historic Edinburgh cemetery famed for Covenanters, Greyfriars Bobby, haunting tales, and Harry Potter inspirations.
National Museum of Scotland
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s rich heritage and global stories in this vast, family-friendly museum at Edinburgh’s cultural heart.
City Of The Dead Tours
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh's haunted vaults and graveyards with expert guides blending history, atmosphere, and dark storytelling.
Greyfriars Bobby's Bar
0.3 km
Experience Edinburgh’s legendary loyalty tale at Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar, a historic pub serving real ales and classic Scottish hospitality.
Talbot Rice Gallery, The University of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art within the historic grandeur of Edinburgh University’s Old College at Talbot Rice Gallery.
Surgeons' Hall Museums
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich surgical history and groundbreaking medical collections in the award-winning Surgeons' Hall Museums.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
0.4 km
Discover the grave that inspired Lord Voldemort’s name in Edinburgh’s historic Greyfriars Kirkyard, a must-visit for Harry Potter fans and history enthusiasts alike.
The Three Sisters
0.4 km
Experience a lively blend of Scottish hospitality, vibrant live music, and delicious food at The Three Sisters in Edinburgh's Cowgate.
Stramash
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant live music venue with nightly bands, late-night dancing, and Scotland’s largest HD sports screen in a unique historic setting.
Essential places to dine
MUMS Great Comfort Food
0.2 km
Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
The Cellar Door
0.4 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.4 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Under The Stairs
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.4 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
tapas3
0.4 km
Authentic Spanish tapas with generous portions and warm hospitality in Edinburgh’s charming Southside neighborhood.
Ondine Restaurant
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Howies Restaurant
0.6 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Maison Bleue
0.6 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
The Piper's Rest
0.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Beehive Inn
0.6 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.6 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.6 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Amber Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Makars Mash Bar
0.6 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.4 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Galaxy
0.4 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.5 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.5 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
0.5 km
Edinburgh's iconic artisan cheese shop where small-scale makers meet passionate consumers on the city's most storied street.
The Scotland Shop
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Fringe Shop
0.6 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Scottish Experience
0.6 km
Explore the essence of Scotland with unique gifts and authentic souvenirs at the Scottish Experience in Edinburgh.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Godiva
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Olde Edinburgh
0.6 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
House of Scotland
0.6 km
Explore authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at the House of Scotland, located on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
The Court Curio Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Heritage of Scotland
0.6 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
0.6 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Captain's Bar
0.3 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Frankenstein
0.4 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
The Oz Bar
0.4 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.5 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Bow Bar
0.5 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.6 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Copper Still
0.6 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.6 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.
Whistlebinkies
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Jolly Judge
0.6 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.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.7 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Dragonfly
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.7 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.7 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Argyle and Cellar Bar
0.7 km
A vibrant Edinburgh pub with cozy cellar music, quality ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Argyle Place.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Legends
0.4 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
0.4 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Mash House
0.4 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
The Bongo Club
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
La Belle Angele
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.5 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
The Liquid Room
0.5 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.6 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
El Barrio Latino
1.1 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
1.1 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
1.1 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Club Tropicana
1.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
1.1 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
1.2 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
1.2 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.
