Discover the Historic Charm of Lawnmarket in Edinburgh
Explore Lawnmarket, a historic street in Edinburgh, where medieval architecture meets vibrant shopping and rich Scottish culture.
Lawnmarket, a historic street in the heart of Edinburgh, offers tourists a captivating glimpse into the city's rich past with its stunning architecture, vibrant shops, and cultural significance.
A brief summary to Lawnmarket
- Edinburgh, GB
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Take your time to explore the side alleys for hidden gems and local artisans.
- Don't miss trying traditional Scottish snacks at local cafes.
- Check for local events or markets that may be happening during your visit.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and street life.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Edinburgh Waverley Train Station, exit the station and head towards the Royal Mile. Once you are on the Royal Mile, continue walking uphill until you reach the Lawnmarket area. Lawnmarket is located on the left side of the Royal Mile and is easily recognizable by its beautiful historic buildings.
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Bus
From the St Andrew Square bus stop, take the Lothian Buses service number 3, 5, 7, 8, 29, or 31. Get off at the stop called 'High Street'. From there, walk towards the Royal Mile and continue until you reach Lawnmarket. It should take about 10 minutes to walk from the bus stop to Lawnmarket.
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Tram
If you are near the city center, you can take the tram from either York Place or Princes Street. Take the tram towards Edinburgh Airport and get off at the stop called 'St Andrew Square'. From there, follow the walking directions to the Royal Mile and continue uphill until you reach Lawnmarket.
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Taxi/Private Hire
If you prefer a more direct route, you can use a taxi or a private hire vehicle. Simply tell the driver to take you to Lawnmarket, which is a well-known location in Edinburgh. The driver will be familiar with the area and can drop you off right at Lawnmarket.
Discover more about Lawnmarket
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
David Hume Statue
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A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
Lady Stair's Close
0.1 km
Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.1 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.2 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
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.
George IV Bridge
0.2 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.2 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.2 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Adam Smith Statue
0.2 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
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Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Barrie's Close
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Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
The Edinburgh Dungeon
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Dive into the dark and thrilling history of Scotland at The Edinburgh Dungeon, where spooky tales and immersive experiences await every visitor.
The High Street Wellhead
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Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
The India Cross
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Discover The India Cross in Edinburgh, a historical landmark that showcases the city's cultural connections with India amidst stunning surroundings.
Cockburn St
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Explore Cockburn Street, a vibrant and historic thoroughfare in Edinburgh, where culture meets charm in the heart of Scotland's capital.
Unmissable attractions to see
Deacon Brodies Tavern
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Experience the history and charm of Edinburgh at Deacon Brodie's Tavern, a traditional pub offering local ales and hearty Scottish cuisine.
Gladstone's Land
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Step into 17th-century Edinburgh at Gladstone's Land, a towering tenement rich with history, art, and stories from the Royal Mile.
Scottish Experience
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts and magical Harry Potter memorabilia in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Lawnmarket.
Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddle's Court
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Historic 16th-century merchant’s tenement transformed by Patrick Geddes into a vibrant learning and cultural centre in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Lady Stair's House
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A serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh’s Old Town, home to the Writers’ Museum and a rich literary heritage.
The Writers' Museum
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Explore Scotland’s literary heritage in a charming 17th-century house dedicated to Burns, Scott, and Stevenson on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Jolly Judge
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Discover the charm of The Jolly Judge, a cozy pub in Edinburgh offering local ales, traditional Scottish dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Whiski Rooms
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Discover Edinburgh’s award-winning whisky bar and restaurant offering over 300 whiskies, fresh Scottish cuisine, and daily tastings in a cosy historic setting.
House of Scotland
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Discover authentic Scottish heritage and crafts at House of Scotland, a vibrant gift shop nestled on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Victoria St
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Discover Victoria Street, Edinburgh’s colorful, curved historic street famed for its magical charm, boutique shops, and captivating atmosphere.
Milne's Court
0.1 km
Discover Milne's Court, Edinburgh’s pioneering open courtyard from 1692, nestled on the historic Royal Mile near the Castle.
Museum on the Mound
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s iconic banking history and the fascinating evolution of money in a free, interactive museum atop The Mound.
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
0.1 km
An ornate Victorian bronze statue honoring the 5th Duke of Buccleuch’s legacy, set in Edinburgh’s historic Parliament Square.
Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
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Experience the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, a vibrant symbol of Edinburgh's football heritage and a must-see historical landmark.
I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
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Artisan cheese haven on Edinburgh’s historic Victoria Street, offering expertly matured farmhouse cheeses and personalized service for over 30 years.
Essential places to dine
Ondine Restaurant
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Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Howies Restaurant
0.1 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Makars Mash Bar
0.1 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Maison Bleue
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French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
The Devil's Advocate
0.1 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.1 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
0.2 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Amber Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.2 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Under The Stairs
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
The Cellar Door
0.2 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Ecco Vino
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Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.3 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
The Piper's Rest
0.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Heritage of Scotland
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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
0.0 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
Olde Edinburgh
0.0 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
The Court Curio Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
The Enchanted Galaxy
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Dive into a wizarding wonderland on Victoria Street, where Harry Potter treasures and fantasy fandoms burst from every shelf in Edinburgh's most enchanting gift shop.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.2 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.2 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
Fringe Shop
0.2 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Eden
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Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
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Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Scotland Shop
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Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Heritage of Edinburgh
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A compact Old Town shop blending kilts, tartans and practical Scottish gifts within a historic South Bridge streetscape.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.4 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bow Bar
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A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
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Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Oz Bar
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A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Frankenstein
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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.
Copper Still
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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!
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Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
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.
The Banshee Labyrinth
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Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.4 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Ballie Ballerson
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.4 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Cask
0.4 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.4 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Captain's Bar
0.5 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.5 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
