Explore the Rich Tapestry of Edinburgh at the Museum of Edinburgh
Discover Edinburgh's vibrant history at the Museum of Edinburgh, where captivating exhibits bring the city's past to life in engaging ways.
The Museum of Edinburgh is a fascinating local history museum located on Canongate, showcasing the city's vibrant heritage through a collection of unique exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can immerse themselves in Edinburgh's past, exploring everything from its medieval origins to modern times. With engaging displays and friendly staff, this museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in understanding the heart and soul of Scotland's capital.
A brief summary to Museum of Edinburgh
- 142-146 Canongate, Edinburgh, EH8 8DD, GB
- +441315294143
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check for any special exhibitions or events happening during your visit for a unique experience.
- Plan to spend at least a couple of hours to fully explore the diverse collections.
- Consider visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can be busier.
- Don't miss the gift shop for unique souvenirs reflecting Edinburgh's history.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from Edinburgh Waverley Train Station, exit the station and head towards East Market Street. Turn left onto East Market Street and continue straight until you reach the junction with Jeffrey Street. Turn right onto Jeffrey Street, and then take the first left onto South Bridge. Follow South Bridge until you reach the junction with High Street (Royal Mile). Turn left onto High Street and continue walking until you reach St. Mary's Cathedral. From there, turn right onto Canongate, and the Museum of Edinburgh will be on your left at 142-146 Canongate.
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Bus
If you prefer to take a bus, head to the nearest bus stop, which can be found on the Royal Mile. Look for buses that go towards Canongate. You can take bus numbers 35 or 36, which will drop you off at Canongate. After getting off, walk a short distance down Canongate, and the Museum of Edinburgh will be located at 142-146 Canongate.
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Tram
If you are near the tram line, board the tram heading towards York Place. Get off at the last stop, which is York Place, then transfer to the bus service or walk. If walking, head down Leith Street towards the East Market Street area. Continue straight until you reach the junction with Jeffrey Street, turn right, then follow the previous walking directions to reach the Museum of Edinburgh on Canongate.
Discover more about Museum of Edinburgh
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Fergusson Statue
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Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
Burns Monument
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Edinburgh's classical tribute to Scotland's national poet, a Neo-Greek temple with commanding city views.
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
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Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
Wellhead at John Knox House
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Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Queen Mary's Bath House
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A rare 16th-century Tudor pavilion near Holyrood Palace, steeped in royal mystery and linked to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
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A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Dugald Stewart Monument
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A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
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A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Heritage of Edinburgh
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Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
Waterloo Pl
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Explore the architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Waterloo Place, Edinburgh's notable street rich in history and culture.
Royal Mile
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Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Edinburgh along the Royal Mile, where every step unveils a story waiting to be told.
Mercat Tours
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Uncover Edinburgh's captivating stories with Mercat Tours – your gateway to the city's historical and haunted heritage.
North Bridge
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Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
124 High St
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Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Department Of Magic
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Experience the magical fusion of cocktails and escape rooms at Edinburgh's Department of Magic, where every visit is a thrilling adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
The People's Story Museum
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Discover Edinburgh’s working-class heritage through immersive exhibits and personal stories in a historic 16th-century landmark on the Royal Mile.
Edinburgh World Heritage
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Explore Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a city alive with history and culture.
Canongate Kirk
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Historic Canongate Kirk, a royal parish church with unique Dutch gable and serene blue interior, nestled on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Dunbars Close
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Discover Dunbars Close, Edinburgh’s secret garden oasis offering peaceful charm and historic ambiance on the Royal Mile.
The Fudge House of Edinburgh
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Historic Royal Mile sweet shop offering rich, creamy Scottish fudge in a charming, welcoming setting with a wide variety of flavors.
Wee Ecosse - visites guidées en français à Edimbourg
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Discover Edinburgh’s rich history and culture through engaging French-language guided walking tours in the heart of the Old Town.
Jacob's Ladder
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Historic and steep, Jacob's Ladder links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and a glowing nighttime presence.
White Horse Close
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Discover White Horse Close, a picturesque 17th-century courtyard and former coaching inn steeped in Edinburgh’s royal and social history.
The Chocolatarium
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Edinburgh’s interactive chocolate micro-factory where you craft, taste, and discover over 40 artisan chocolates in a historic Old Town setting.
Regent Rd
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Tranquil urban park and historic street offering stunning views and cultural landmarks in the heart of Edinburgh.
Scottish Parliament Building
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Explore Scotland’s modern democratic heart with free tours, debates, and iconic architecture in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Dynamic Earth
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Explore Earth’s incredible story through immersive science, interactive exhibits, and a stunning planetarium at Edinburgh’s Dynamic Earth.
The Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches
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Discover Edinburgh’s premier gin destination with immersive tours, bespoke blends, and stunning city views at The Arches.
The World's End
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A snug, centuries‑stitched Royal Mile pub where Flodden Wall stone, local ales and hearty Scottish plates meet old‑town atmosphere.
Little Fish Tours
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Experience Edinburgh like never before with Little Fish Tours, where local insights meet unforgettable adventures in Scotland's enchanting capital.
Essential places to dine
Tolbooth Tavern
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Historic Royal Mile pub blending 400 years of Scottish history with authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
Wedgwood The Restaurant
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Fine dining on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with seasonal Scottish cuisine and foraged ingredients in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
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Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
La Garrigue
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Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
Monteiths
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Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Howies Restaurant
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Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.
The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
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Suspended fine dining with panoramic Edinburgh views from an architectural marvel atop Calton Hill.
The Piper's Rest
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Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
La Locanda Edinburgh
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A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Duck & Waffle
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A playful modern British restaurant in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, famed for its signature duck and waffle and vibrant, Instagrammable atmosphere.
Number One
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Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
The Gardener's Cottage
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An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
Ecco Vino
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Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
The Botanist Edinburgh
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A lush botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Edinburgh’s New Town, offering creative cocktails, hearty British fare, and live music in a vibrant garden setting.
Twenty Princes Street
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Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Wyrd Shop
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Edinburgh's esoteric gem on Canongate: crystals, tarot, pagan jewelry, and magickal handmade treasures in a cozy witchy haven.
Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
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Authentic Scottish kilts and Highland dress on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Ragamuffin
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Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Holyrood Gift Shop
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Discover authentic Scottish crafts and souvenirs in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at Holyrood Gift Shop.
Real Scot Shop
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Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
Heritage Clearance Store
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The Wee Gift Shop
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Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
scottish experience cashmere place
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The Scotland Shop
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Galaxy
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The Enchanted Galaxy
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Crest Of Edinburgh
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Pure Scottish
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Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
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Eden
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Geeks
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Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
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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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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.
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.
Captain's Bar
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The Alchemist St James Quarter
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Cask
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The Voodoo Rooms
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Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Three Sisters
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The Street
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Casual cocktail bar by day, energetic late-night bar and small club by night — Picardy Place’s go-to spot for social evenings and weekend parties.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
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Frankenstein
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56 North
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Scotland’s first dedicated gin bar and distillery offering award-winning spirits, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious food in Edinburgh’s Newington.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
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Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
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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
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Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
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Sneaky Pete's
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Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
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Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
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Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
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Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Why Not Nightclub
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Shanghai Nightclub
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El Barrio Latino
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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
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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
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A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
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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
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Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
