Wild West, Morningside: Edinburgh’s Quirky Cowboy Alley
Step into Edinburgh’s hidden Wild West alley, a quirky frontier town replica nestled in the heart of Morningside.
Tucked away in Edinburgh’s upscale Morningside district, the Wild West is a unique themed alleyway that transports visitors to an American frontier town. Featuring facades of a jail, blacksmith, cantina, and stables, this small but immersive spot offers a quirky photo opportunity and a glimpse into a curious local curiosity blending Scottish charm with Wild West nostalgia.
A brief summary to Wild West
- Morningside Rd, Edinburgh, Morningside, EH10 4QG, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 0.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit after business hours for a quieter, more atmospheric experience.
- Bring a camera and consider wearing a cowboy hat for memorable photos.
- Be respectful of the surrounding residential and business environment.
- Allow 10-15 minutes to explore the alley and take in the details.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 11 or 16 from Edinburgh city center to Morningside Road, with a journey time of approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-15 minutes. From the stop, it is a 5-minute walk to the Wild West alley. Tickets cost around £1.80-£2.00 one way.
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Tram and Bus Combination
From Edinburgh city center, take the tram to Haymarket Station (about 10 minutes) then transfer to Lothian Bus route 11 or 16 towards Morningside. Total travel time is around 25-35 minutes. This option offers a comfortable and scenic route. Tickets combined cost approximately £3.00.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central Edinburgh to the Wild West in Morningside takes about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £10 to £15. This is the most direct and convenient option, especially if traveling with luggage or in a group.
Wild West location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Wild West
A Surprising Frontier in the Heart of Morningside
Nestled within a small courtyard off Springvalley Gardens in the affluent Morningside area, Edinburgh’s Wild West is an unexpected sight. This alleyway, transformed into a Wild West-themed street, stands out amid the traditional tenements and leafy surroundings. Its presence feels like stepping onto a movie set, where wooden storefronts and rustic signs evoke the American frontier, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding Scottish neighborhood.Origins and Design Inspired by American Ranch Life
The Wild West was created in the early 1990s by Michael Faulkner, a furniture store owner who had spent time working on a ranch in North America. Inspired by his experiences, he remodeled his store and the surrounding buildings into a replica of a Wild West town. Engineers with experience building Disneyland Paris attractions assisted in crafting the detailed facades, including a jail, blacksmith’s shop, cantina, and stables. Although the original furniture business closed in 1999, the themed alley remains as a local curiosity and photo spot.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors enter a ghost town-like setting, where the absence of desert sand or horses is replaced by the charm of rustic wooden buildings and vintage signage. The alley is small, making for a brief visit of around 10-15 minutes, but its immersive design offers a fun and quirky diversion from Edinburgh’s more traditional attractions. The area is still home to garages and workshops, adding an authentic working backdrop to the themed facades. Photographers and fans of Western motifs will find plenty to capture, especially if donning a cowboy hat.Community and Preservation Challenges
Despite its popularity as a hidden gem, the Wild West has faced threats of demolition over the years. It remains a somewhat secret spot cherished by locals and visitors seeking something offbeat. The alley’s dual role as a business area and residential neighborhood means visitors should be respectful of the space. Its unusual character and blend of commercial and themed elements make it a unique piece of Edinburgh’s urban tapestry.Context Within Morningside’s Character
Morningside itself is known for its posh cafés, bars, parks, and a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. The Wild West offers a whimsical counterpoint to this setting, providing a touch of Americana in a Scottish suburb. It is a reminder of the eclectic and sometimes surprising layers that cities like Edinburgh contain, where history, culture, and imagination intersect in unexpected ways.Practical Considerations for Visitors
As a free attraction, the Wild West is accessible at any time, though visiting after business hours is recommended for a quieter experience. The alley is outdoors and relatively compact, making it suitable for a brief stop during a day exploring Morningside. While it lacks interior access or interactive elements, its visual appeal and novelty make it a worthwhile detour for those interested in themed environments and unusual urban sights.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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National Museum of Scotland
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Bruntsfield Links
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Edinburgh Cab Tours
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The Palmerston
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MUMS Great Comfort Food
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The Pompadour
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Amber Restaurant
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Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Poundland
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Carnivàle Vintage
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Godiva
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Photo Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
