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Armstrongs Vintage

Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.

4.6

Nestled in the vibrant Grassmarket area of Edinburgh's Old Town, Armstrongs Vintage is a treasure trove of pre-loved fashion spanning decades. This spacious shop at 81-83 Grassmarket offers an eclectic mix of women's clothing, chunky knitwear, bohemian dresses, ski suits, and unique accessories hand-picked for timeless style. One of the UK's oldest vintage stores, it embodies the eclectic spirit of Edinburgh's historic heart, where cobblestone streets meet retro glamour. Open daily with extended weekend hours, it's a must-visit for sustainable fashion enthusiasts seeking distinctive pieces amid the buzz of market stalls and pubs.

A brief summary to Armstrongs Vintage

  • 81-83 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2HJ, GB
  • +441312205557
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-6 pm

Local tips

  • Hunt for Scottish tweeds and kilts among the rails for authentic local flair at accessible prices.
  • Visit on weekends for extended hours and pair your shopping with nearby Grassmarket pubs.
  • Layer up pieces like mohair scarves for versatile outfits suited to Edinburgh's changeable weather.
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Armstrongs Vintage location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Armstrongs Vintage

Grassmarket's Retro Heart

Tucked into the lively Grassmarket, a historic square once known for its bustling livestock market and public executions, Armstrongs Vintage stands as a beacon of bygone fashion eras. The shop's prime position at 81-83 Grassmarket places it amid colorful market stalls, traditional pubs, and the shadow of Edinburgh Castle looming above. This location pulses with the energy of Old Town Edinburgh, where narrow wynds and medieval architecture frame a modern hunt for vintage gems.

Decades of Curated Style

Armstrongs specializes in pre-owned clothing that captures the essence of 20th-century trends, from 1970s bohemian maxi dresses with flowing silhouettes to chunky knit jumpers perfect for Scottish winters. Ski suits in bold patterns, Harris Tweed jackets, and era-defining accessories fill the racks, each piece selected for its quality and character. The store's cavernous interior allows for expansive displays, inviting browsers to lose themselves in rails of mohair scarves, Pringle knits, and kilts that nod to local heritage.

Legacy of Vintage Excellence

As one of the UK's longest-standing vintage retailers, Armstrongs has evolved from a single outpost to multiple Edinburgh locations, with Grassmarket as a flagship. Founded on a passion for sustainable fashion long before it became mainstream, the shop sources garments that tell stories—of dance floors, highlands hikes, and city adventures. Its commitment to timeless pieces over fast fashion aligns with Edinburgh's appreciation for enduring craftsmanship amid its UNESCO-listed heritage.

Atmosphere and Sensory Allure

Step inside to the faint scent of aged fabrics mingled with leather and wool, accompanied by the soft rustle of hangers and muffled chatter from fellow treasure hunters. Natural light filters through large windows onto wooden floors worn by generations of shoppers, creating an inviting, unpretentious vibe. The eclectic mix fosters serendipitous discoveries, where a retro jacket might pair perfectly with modern boots, blending eras seamlessly.

Edinburgh's Fashion Heritage

In a city famed for its tartans, tweeds, and festivals, Armstrongs enhances the narrative of Scottish style. Grassmarket's position near the Royal Mile and Victoria Street—familiar from film sets—makes it a natural stop for those exploring Edinburgh's creative underbelly. The shop's offerings resonate with the area's bohemian past, when artists and performers scoured for unique looks during the Fringe.

Practical Charms for Shoppers

Generous opening hours cater to varied schedules: weekdays from 10am, weekends until 6pm, and Sundays from noon. Credit cards and contactless payments streamline purchases, while in-store shopping allows hands-on exploration. This vintage haven encourages leisurely browsing, turning a simple visit into a journey through fashion history right in Edinburgh's dynamic core.

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