Tron Kirk Market, Edinburgh's Historic Arts and Crafts Hub
Discover Edinburgh’s historic 17th-century Tron Kirk transformed into a vibrant indoor market showcasing Scotland’s finest arts and crafts.
Located at 122 High Street on Edinburgh's Royal Mile, the Tron Kirk Market is housed in a striking 17th-century former church. This unique indoor market showcases over 20 Scottish artists and designers offering handmade crafts, jewellery, textiles, and art. The building’s rare hammerbeam roof and stained glass windows provide a captivating historic atmosphere, blending Scotland’s cultural heritage with contemporary creative expression.
A brief summary to Tron Kirk Market
- 122 High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1SG, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays or early afternoons to enjoy a quieter shopping experience and browse artisan stalls comfortably.
- Look for unique handmade Scottish jewellery and textiles, perfect as authentic souvenirs or gifts.
- Take time to admire the kirk’s rare hammerbeam roof and stained glass windows while exploring the market.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Royal Mile to explore other historic landmarks nearby.
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
Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36 from Edinburgh city centre to stops near the Royal Mile. The journey typically takes 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £1.80-£2.00 GBP. Note that the Royal Mile area has limited parking and is best accessed by public transport.
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Tram
Use the Edinburgh Trams service to Princes Street stop, about a 10-minute walk from Tron Kirk Market. Trams run every 7-10 minutes with a journey time of 25-30 minutes from the airport. Tickets cost approximately £6.50 GBP from the airport or £1.80 within the city zone.
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Walking
If staying in central Edinburgh, walking to Tron Kirk Market is an excellent option. The terrain is paved and accessible, with a typical walking time of 10-20 minutes from Princes Street or Edinburgh Waverley Station. Suitable for most visitors, including those with limited mobility.
Tron Kirk Market location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Tron Kirk Market
A Landmark Born of 17th-Century Edinburgh
The Tron Kirk was commissioned by King Charles I in 1633 and constructed between 1637 and 1647 to serve the North-West parish of Edinburgh. Designed by royal master mason John Mylne, the church combines Palladian and Gothic architectural elements, featuring one of Scotland’s two surviving hammerbeam roofs with a distinctive sexfoil pattern. Originally T-shaped, the building was truncated in the late 18th century to accommodate urban development, including the South Bridge. Its octagonal stone spire, rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1824, crowns this historic structure that once played a central role in Edinburgh’s religious and civic life.The Name and Its Market Heritage
The name 'Tron Kirk' derives from the Scots word 'tron,' referring to the public weighing beam that once stood outside the church, used to measure goods sold at market. This connection to commerce has endured, as the building now hosts the Tron Kirk Market, continuing the tradition of trade in the heart of Edinburgh. Historically, the site was also known for public punishments of petty criminals, linking it to the city's social history.From Sacred Space to Creative Marketplace
After closing as a church in 1952, the Tron Kirk underwent various transformations, including use as a festival venue and exhibition space. Since 2022, it has been revitalized as a boutique indoor market run by the Scottish Design Exchange, featuring over 20 Scottish artists and designers. Visitors can explore stalls offering jewellery, ceramics, textiles, prints, and knitwear, all set beneath the kirk’s soaring ceilings and illuminated by stained glass windows. This blend of historic ambiance and vibrant creativity makes the market a distinctive shopping destination.Architectural and Archaeological Significance
The Tron Kirk’s architecture is notable for its ionic pilasters, large stained glass windows with tracery, and the rare hammerbeam roof designed by John Scott. Archaeological excavations in the 1970s revealed the foundations of 16th-century buildings and Marlin’s Wynd, believed to be Scotland’s oldest paved street, beneath the kirk’s floor. These discoveries highlight the site’s layered history, connecting visitors to Edinburgh’s medieval past.A Hub for Scottish Artisans and Culture
The market supports Scotland’s creative community by providing a platform for local artists and designers to showcase their work in a historic setting. The Scottish Historic Buildings Trust collaborates with the Scottish Design Exchange to conserve the building while promoting economic viability through arts and crafts. This synergy preserves the kirk’s heritage and fosters a dynamic cultural experience for locals and tourists alike.Experiencing the Royal Mile’s Historic Heart
Situated on the bustling Royal Mile, the Tron Kirk Market offers more than shopping; it invites visitors to immerse themselves in Edinburgh’s rich history and architectural beauty. The market’s location makes it a perfect stop for those exploring the city’s landmarks, providing a unique atmosphere where past and present converge in a celebration of Scottish craftsmanship and heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
124 High St
0.0 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
Museum Context
0.1 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
The High Street Wellhead
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
Adam Smith Statue
0.1 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Barrie's Close
0.2 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
Mercat Cross
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Wellhead at John Knox House
0.2 km
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
0.2 km
Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.2 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
North Bridge
0.2 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Parliament Sqr
0.2 km
Experience the historic charm and vibrant culture of Edinburgh's Parliament Square, a must-visit destination in Scotland's capital city.
Supreme Courts
0.2 km
Explore Scotland’s historic Supreme Courts housed in Edinburgh’s iconic Parliament House, a living symbol of justice since 1532.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hunter Square
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Historic Hunter Square, a serene crossroads behind Tron Kirk, blends Edinburgh’s rich heritage with peaceful urban charm.
Royal Mile
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Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile – a vibrant cobbled artery linking castle, cathedral, and palace through centuries of Scottish heritage.
City of Edinburgh Tours
0.0 km
Explore Edinburgh’s haunted underground and historic Old Town with immersive ghost and history tours from the iconic Old Police Box.
Monkey Barrel Comedy
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s intimate comedy hotspot offering award-winning shows, diverse line-ups, and a welcoming atmosphere with table service and a great bar.
Department Of Magic
0.1 km
Step into Edinburgh’s enchanting basement escape rooms and potions tavern for a magical adventure filled with puzzles, cocktails, and wizardry charm.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.1 km
Discover the heart of Edinburgh's culinary scene at the Royal Mile Tavern, a must-visit pub offering local flavors and vibrant atmosphere.
Fleshmarket Cl
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting Fleshmarket Close, a historic gem in Edinburgh, showcasing rich culture and captivating architecture amidst cobblestone charm.
Mercat Tours
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s haunted vaults and historic secrets with Mercat Tours, where chilling stories and expert guides bring the city’s dark past to life.
St Cecilia’s Hall: Concert Room & Music Museum, The University of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Scotland’s oldest purpose-built concert hall, now a museum of historic instruments and intimate live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
South Bridge Vaults
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s eerie 18th-century South Bridge Vaults, where history, mystery, and the city’s dark past converge beneath the streets.
Auld Reekie Tours
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s haunted underground vaults and graveyards with award-winning, immersive guided tours blending history, mystery, and spine-tingling tales.
ScoziaTour.com
0.1 km
Discover Scotland's breathtaking beauty and rich history with ScoziaTour, your premier travel agency in Edinburgh.
Anchor Close
0.1 km
Historic Anchor Close on Cockburn Street offers an atmospheric glimpse into Edinburgh’s Old Town heritage amid Scots Baronial architecture and vibrant urban life.
Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft Ltd
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s intimate museum exploring the rich history and practices of magic, witchcraft, and fortune-telling in a cozy, atmospheric setting.
Cockburn St
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Cockburn Street, a historic serpentine link blending Scots Baronial charm with vibrant shops and lively culture.
Essential places to dine
The Piper's Rest
0.0 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.1 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Monteiths
0.2 km
Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Ecco Vino
0.2 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
0.2 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.2 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
La Garrigue
0.2 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
The Devil's Advocate
0.2 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Wedgwood The Restaurant
0.3 km
Fine dining on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with seasonal Scottish cuisine and foraged ingredients in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Ondine Restaurant
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Makars Mash Bar
0.3 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
The Cellar Door
0.3 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.4 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Number One
0.4 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
Whiski Rooms
0.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky selection at Whiski Rooms in Edinburgh's city center.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Scotland Shop
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
scottish experience cashmere place
0.1 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
Fringe Shop
0.1 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.1 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
The Wee Gift Shop
0.1 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
Eden
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Heritage Clearance Store
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
Real Scot Shop
0.2 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
Galaxy
0.2 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.2 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Ragamuffin
0.2 km
Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Pure Scottish
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
I Love Scotland
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at I Love Scotland, a welcoming shop in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Whistlebinkies
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Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Copper Still
0.1 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.1 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.1 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.1 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The World's End
0.2 km
Discover the charm of The World's End pub on the Royal Mile, where history meets hearty Scottish cuisine and local brews in Edinburgh.
The Cocktail Geeks
0.2 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
The Three Sisters
0.3 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.3 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.
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.
Cask
0.4 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
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 Jolly Judge
0.4 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.
The Bow Bar
0.4 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.1 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.1 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.2 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
0.3 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.4 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.7 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.
Garibaldi's
0.8 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.
Opal Lounge
0.8 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.9 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
1.1 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
