Discover the Charm of Lothian Road in Edinburgh
Explore Edinburgh's Lothian Road: A bustling hub of history, culture, and contemporary charm awaits every traveler.
Lothian Road, a pivotal artery in Edinburgh, invites tourists to explore its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. This notable street is not only a transport hub but also a gateway to some of the city's most iconic landmarks, offering a delightful blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
A brief summary to Lothian Rd
- Edinburgh, GB
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid the weekend crowds for a more relaxed experience.
- Check out local events at Usher Hall for a chance to catch live performances.
- Don’t miss the nearby cafes for a warm cup of traditional Scottish tea.
- Use public transport; Lothian Road is well-connected, making it easy to explore the city.
- Look for hidden gems in the side streets for unique local shops and eateries.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the city center, head towards the west along Princes Street. Continue walking until you reach the junction with Lothian Road. You will see the Usher Hall on your left. Turn left onto Lothian Road, and you will find various shops and restaurants lining the street. The area is well-paved and easy to navigate on foot.
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Bus
From the city center, you can catch a bus from St Andrew Square. Look for buses heading towards 'West End' or 'Haymarket'. Get off at the stop named 'Lothian Road'. After you disembark, you will be right on Lothian Road, where you can explore the surroundings.
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Tram
You can take the tram from York Place or Princes Street. Ride the tram towards 'Airport' and get off at the 'Haymarket' stop. After exiting the tram, walk east along Lothian Road, and you will be in the area.
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Taxi/Private Hire
If you prefer a quicker option, you can book a taxi or private hire vehicle through a local app like Uber or a taxi service. Simply input 'Lothian Road, Edinburgh' as your destination, and your driver will take you directly to the location.
Discover more about Lothian Rd
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.4 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
15 Charlotte Square
0.5 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
Flodden Wall
0.6 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.
The Witches Well
0.6 km
A poignant cast iron memorial outside Edinburgh Castle honoring the thousands accused and executed as witches in Scotland’s dark past.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
0.6 km
Explore the rich heritage of Scotch whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh, where tradition meets taste in every sip.
Rose St
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Rose Street in Edinburgh, a perfect blend of local culture, dining, and shopping delights.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
0.7 km
Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
Floral Clock
0.7 km
Discover the world's oldest floral clock—a vibrant, living timepiece blooming with history and horticultural artistry in Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street Gardens.
John Knox Monument
0.7 km
Explore the historic John Knox Monument, a stunning tribute to the Scottish Reformer, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich religious history.
Milne's Court
0.8 km
Discover Milne's Court, a captivating historical landmark in Edinburgh, where the past meets the present in a picturesque setting.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.8 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
0.8 km
Explore the mystical Thomas Riddell's Grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic site rich with tales of the past and connections to the Harry Potter universe.
The Dean Bridge
0.8 km
A soaring 19th-century stone bridge by Thomas Telford, linking Edinburgh’s New Town with the scenic Water of Leith valley.
Gladstone's Land
0.8 km
Explore the historic charm of Gladstone's Land in Edinburgh, a captivating glimpse into Scotland's rich past with delightful cafes and stunning architecture.
The Writers' Museum
0.8 km
Explore The Writers' Museum in Edinburgh, a tribute to Scotland's literary greats and a treasure trove for literature lovers seeking inspiration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lothian Rd
0.0 km
Lothian Road pulses with Edinburgh’s cultural heartbeat, blending historic theatres, cinemas, and vibrant urban life beneath the shadow of the castle.
The Usher Hall
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s iconic Edwardian concert hall renowned for world-class acoustics and diverse performances in a majestic historic setting.
Innis & Gunn Edinburgh City Centre Brewery Taproom
0.1 km
Discover the craft of brewing at Innis & Gunn Brewery Taproom in Edinburgh, where great beer and live music create a unique atmosphere.
Escape Edinburgh
0.2 km
Dive into immersive escape rooms on Morrison Street, where clever puzzles and captivating stories await every team.
Edinburgh Farmers' Market
0.2 km
Discover fresh Scottish produce and artisanal delights every Saturday with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle at Castle Terrace Farmers' Market.
The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
0.2 km
Explore the Parish Church of St Cuthbert, Edinburgh's historic spiritual haven filled with stunning architecture and rich heritage.
St. John's Church Hall
0.3 km
Historic Gothic church hall on Princes Street, blending stunning stained glass artistry with vibrant community events in Edinburgh’s New Town.
National War Museum
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s rich military history through artifacts, personal stories, and art within the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Regimental Museum
0.3 km
Explore over 300 years of Scotland’s only cavalry regiment in the historic New Barracks of Edinburgh Castle.
Ross Fountain
0.3 km
A dazzling Victorian cast-iron fountain beneath Edinburgh Castle, blending French artistry with Scottish heritage in vibrant color.
One O’Clock Gun
0.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s iconic One O’Clock Gun, a historic maritime time signal fired daily from Edinburgh Castle since 1861.
St Margaret's Chapel
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s oldest building, a serene 12th-century chapel atop Castle Rock honoring Queen Margaret’s enduring spiritual legacy.
Edinburgh Castle - Mons Meg
0.4 km
Discover Mons Meg, the colossal 15th-century siege cannon at Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland’s medieval military might and royal heritage.
Great Hall
0.4 km
Step into the majestic Great Hall of Edinburgh Castle, a stunning medieval chamber showcasing royal history, architecture, and armory.
Edinburgh Castle
0.4 km
Explore Edinburgh Castle, a majestic fortress atop Castlehill offering royal history, breathtaking views, and iconic Scottish heritage.
Essential places to dine
Dine Edinburgh
0.1 km
Elegant Scottish brasserie above the Traverse Theatre, blending seasonal local flavors with refined service and a chic cocktail lounge.
The Pompadour
0.3 km
Experience refined modern Scottish cuisine with stunning Edinburgh Castle views in the elegant setting of 1925 at The Pompadour.
TIMBERYARD
0.3 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
Forage & Chatter
0.4 km
Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
Aizle
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
BABA
0.5 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Badger & Co
0.5 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.6 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
The Palmerston
0.6 km
A stylish West End restaurant serving modern Scottish cuisine in a refined, relaxed setting just steps from Edinburgh’s city centre.
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.
Contini George Street
0.6 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Amber Restaurant
0.7 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 Witchery by the Castle
0.7 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Maison Bleue
0.7 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Howies Restaurant
0.8 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
One World Shop
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
Carnivàle Vintage
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Poundland
0.3 km
Affordable shopping in Edinburgh’s city centre with a vast range of quality products all priced to save you money.
Herman Brown
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
ScotlandShop
0.4 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.4 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Edinburgh Art Shop
0.4 km
Edinburgh Art Shop offers a warm, expert-led art supply experience with quality materials and a creative community spirit in the heart of Edinburgh.
Godiva
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
The Treasure Trove
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Scottish Design Exchange
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
Freak Unique
0.6 km
Edinburgh's eclectic fashion sanctuary for those who dare to dress differently.
Emporium 62
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich heritage through unique antiques and collectibles at Emporium 62, a charming treasure trove on Home Street.
Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
0.6 km
Discover Scotland's rich textile heritage at the Tartan Weaving Mill, where history meets craftsmanship in a vibrant exhibition and unique shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
0.0 km
Experience Edinburgh’s craft beer culture in a vibrant, historic setting with legendary wings, 28 taps, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
0.1 km
Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
NQ64 Edinburgh
0.1 km
A neon-lit arcade bar in Edinburgh blending retro gaming classics with creative cocktails and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
SKYbar Edinburgh
0.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s skyline with exquisite cocktails and stunning castle views at SKYbar, the city’s premier rooftop destination.
The Caley Bar
0.3 km
Step into The Caley Bar for a refined blend of Victorian railway heritage, bespoke cocktails, and Scotland’s finest whiskies in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Raging Bull
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gin haven where craft distilling meets cozy speakeasy charm in the heart of the West End.
The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s iconic American-style piano bar blending live music and classic cocktails in a lively West End setting.
Dragonfly
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
Never Really Here
0.5 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
The Jolly Botanist
0.6 km
A Victorian-style gin bar in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for its botanical cocktails, hearty Scottish fare, and warm, quirky atmosphere.
Copper Blossom
0.6 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
The Oxford Bar
0.6 km
Historic Edinburgh pub famed as Inspector Rebus’s haunt, offering timeless charm and a cozy, no-frills atmosphere in New Town.
Panda & Sons
0.6 km
Edinburgh's hidden speakeasy where barbershop secrets unlock theatrical cocktails, smoky spectacles, and a fictional family's boozy tales in cosy, low-lit elegance.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Tropicana
0.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.6 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
The Liquid Room
0.8 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Opal Lounge
0.8 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
El Barrio Latino
0.8 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.
The Bongo Club
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.9 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Sneaky Pete's
0.9 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Why Not Nightclub
0.9 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Garibaldi's
0.9 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.
The Mash House
1.1 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
1.2 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
