Discover the Charm of Waterloo Place in Edinburgh
Explore the architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Waterloo Place, Edinburgh's notable street rich in history and culture.
Waterloo Place is a notable street in the heart of Edinburgh, famed for its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. It serves as a gateway to the city's rich history, culture, and attractions, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking to explore the essence of Scotland's capital.
A brief summary to Waterloo Pl
- Edinburgh, GB
Local tips
- Visit during the golden hour for the best photographs of the stunning architecture.
- Take a short detour to Calton Hill for breathtaking views and historical monuments.
- Stop by local cafes along the street for a taste of Edinburgh's culinary scene.
- Plan your visit early in the day to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the sights.
- Check out local events or street performances that often take place in the area.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're starting from Edinburgh Waverley Station, exit the station and head towards the main concourse. Once you are outside, turn right and walk towards Market Street. Continue straight ahead until you reach Waterloo Place. It should take around 10 minutes on foot.
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Bus
From Princes Street, you can catch several buses that go towards Waterloo Place. Look for bus numbers 3, 5, 7, 8, 11, or 22. Board the bus at any stop along Princes Street heading east. Get off at the 'Calton Hill' stop, which is right near Waterloo Place. The journey should take around 5-10 minutes depending on traffic.
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Tram
If you prefer the tram, head to the nearest tram stop on Princes Street. Board the tram heading towards York Place. Get off at the 'St Andrew Square' stop. From there, it's about a 5-minute walk. Exit the tram station and walk towards the east on St Andrew Square, then turn left onto Waterloo Place.
Discover more about Waterloo Pl
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
The Centre of Edinburgh
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Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
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.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
0.1 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
Dugald Stewart Monument
0.2 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
North Bridge
0.2 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
0.3 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
0.4 km
Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
Melville Monument
0.4 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Museum Context
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Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
Wellhead at John Knox House
0.4 km
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
124 High St
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Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Warriston's Close Stairs
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A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Edinburgh
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Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, a majestic floating palace and iconic symbol of British royal history and maritime heritage.
Old Calton Cemetery
0.1 km
Historic resting place on Calton Hill with notable monuments and panoramic views of Edinburgh’s rich heritage.
Heart of Scotland Tours
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Explore Scotland’s iconic sights and hidden gems with intimate, expertly guided small-group tours departing from Edinburgh’s Waterloo Place.
Steps to Calton Hill
0.1 km
Ascend the iconic steps to Calton Hill for breathtaking views, historic monuments, and a serene escape in the heart of Edinburgh.
St James Quarter
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s largest retail and leisure district, blending shopping, dining, entertainment, and luxury stays in the city centre.
Waverley Steps
0.2 km
Waverley Steps: A modern, accessible gateway blending historic charm with panoramic views in Edinburgh’s city center.
Cask
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A lively Princes Street rooftop bar with panoramic Old Town views, Peruvian small plates and cosy heated domes for intimate cityside nights.
Waverley Market
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s central shopping destination blending historic charm with vibrant retail and dining experiences year-round.
Multrees Walk
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s luxury shopping street, home to Scotland’s only Harvey Nichols, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and more in a stylish pedestrian precinct.
Playfair Monument
0.3 km
Elegant Greek Doric memorial on Calton Hill honoring John Playfair, a pillar of Edinburgh’s Enlightenment and uncle to architect William Playfair.
Nelson Monument
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Discover the Nelson Monument on Calton Hill, a stunning tribute to Admiral Lord Nelson with panoramic views and rich maritime history in Edinburgh.
The Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier gin destination with immersive tours, bespoke blends, and stunning city views at The Arches.
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.
City Art Centre
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Explore Scotland’s rich artistic heritage and vibrant contemporary scene at Edinburgh’s City Art Centre, a dynamic cultural landmark near Waverley Station.
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
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.
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.
Number One
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Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
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.
Tattu Edinburgh
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Experience modern Chinese cuisine in a stunning setting blending Edinburgh’s historic charm with contemporary elegance.
Hawksmoor Edinburgh
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A grand art deco steakhouse in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving exceptional grass-fed beef and Scottish seafood in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
Lady Libertine
0.3 km
A chic Edinburgh hotspot blending inventive cocktails, Mediterranean mezze, and art deco vibes across two stylish floors.
The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
0.3 km
Suspended fine dining with panoramic Edinburgh views from an architectural marvel atop Calton Hill.
La Garrigue
0.3 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
Dishoom Edinburgh
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A vibrant Bombay-style café in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving all-day comfort food, bottomless chai and cocktails in a nostalgic, art-deco setting.
Gaucho Edinburgh
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Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium Pampas beef and elegant ambiance in Edinburgh’s vibrant city center.
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.
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Edinburgh
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Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature British dishes and vibrant bar scene in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic St Andrew Square.
Monteiths
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Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pure Scottish
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Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Anime Republic
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Edinburgh’s vibrant anime gift shop and community hub offering collectibles, manga, and events for fans of all levels.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
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Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.4 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
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.
Eden
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Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
scottish experience cashmere place
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Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
Heritage Clearance Store
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Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
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.
Crest Of Edinburgh
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of 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.
Fringe Shop
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Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alchemist St James Quarter
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Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
The Voodoo Rooms
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Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
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.
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.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
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A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
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.
Nightcap
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Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
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
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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.
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.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.6 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.
Hoot The Redeemer
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A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Grand Cru
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Edinburgh's cocktail haven on Hanover Street, blending masterful drinks, modern European bites, and seamless day-to-night vibes in the heart of New Town.
The Three Sisters
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A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
The Jolly Judge
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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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.5 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
0.5 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
Why Not Nightclub
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Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
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Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
La Belle Angele
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.6 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
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.
Sneaky Pete's
0.7 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.7 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
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Opal Lounge
0.7 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.
