Exploring the Heart of Edinburgh: South Bridge
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Edinburgh at South Bridge, a lively hub that connects the city's past with its modern vibrancy.
Discover the vibrant South Bridge in Edinburgh, a bustling thoroughfare steeped in history and culture. This iconic location is a gateway to the city's rich heritage, offering a blend of stunning architecture, shopping experiences, and access to local attractions that will captivate any traveler.
A brief summary to South Bridge
- Edinburgh, GB
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and better explore the nearby attractions.
- Don't forget to try local delicacies at the cafes along the bridge; they're known for their traditional dishes.
- Keep an eye out for local events or street performances that often take place in the area, especially during the festival season.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll want to explore the nearby closes and cobbled streets for a full experience.
Getting There
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Car
From the center of Fife, take the M90 motorway towards Edinburgh. Exit at the junction for the A902, following signs for Edinburgh. Continue on the A902 and then merge onto the A720 (City Bypass). After approximately 6 miles, take the exit towards A1/Edinburgh (North). Follow signs for the city center, and merge onto the A7. Continue straight until you reach the South Bridge area. Look for parking options nearby as you approach South Bridge.
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Public Transportation
From Fife, take a train from any local station (like Dunfermline or Kirkcaldy) to Edinburgh Waverley station. Trains run regularly, and the journey typically takes about 30-45 minutes. Once you arrive at Waverley station, exit the station and walk towards the city center. Head southwest on Market Street, then turn right onto South Bridge. South Bridge will be a short walk from Waverley station.
Discover more about South Bridge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
Old College, The University of Edinburgh
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Iconic 18th-century classical quadrangle housing Edinburgh Law School and University administration in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
124 High St
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Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
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.
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.
The High Street Wellhead
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
1 Parliament Sqr
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Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Wellhead at John Knox House
0.2 km
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Adam Smith Statue
0.2 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Mercat Cross
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Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
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.
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.
Parliament Sqr
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Experience the historic charm and vibrant culture of Edinburgh's Parliament Square, a must-visit destination in Scotland's capital city.
The Chocolatarium
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Experience the magic of chocolate at The Chocolatarium in Edinburgh, where you can indulge in delicious treats and learn the art of chocolate-making.
National Museum of Scotland
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Discover Scotland's rich heritage at the National Museum of Scotland, an engaging cultural hub showcasing the nation's history and identity.
Unmissable attractions to see
South Bridge Vaults
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Explore Edinburgh’s eerie 18th-century South Bridge Vaults, where history, mystery, and the city’s dark past converge beneath the streets.
Auld Reekie Tours
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Explore Edinburgh’s haunted underground vaults and graveyards with award-winning, immersive guided tours blending history, mystery, and spine-tingling tales.
St Cecilia’s Hall: Concert Room & Music Museum, The University of Edinburgh
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Scotland’s oldest purpose-built concert hall, now a museum of historic instruments and intimate live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Stramash
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Edinburgh’s vibrant live music venue with nightly bands, late-night dancing, and Scotland’s largest HD sports screen in a unique historic setting.
Mercat Tours
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Discover Edinburgh’s haunted vaults and historic secrets with Mercat Tours, where chilling stories and expert guides bring the city’s dark past to life.
Cowgate
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Discover Cowgate, Edinburgh’s historic street where medieval roots meet vibrant nightlife beneath the Old Town’s iconic skyline.
Department Of Magic
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Step into Edinburgh’s enchanting basement escape rooms and potions tavern for a magical adventure filled with puzzles, cocktails, and wizardry charm.
Monkey Barrel Comedy
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Edinburgh’s intimate comedy hotspot offering award-winning shows, diverse line-ups, and a welcoming atmosphere with table service and a great bar.
Hunter Square
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Historic Hunter Square, a serene crossroads behind Tron Kirk, blends Edinburgh’s rich heritage with peaceful urban charm.
Tron Kirk Market
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Discover Edinburgh’s historic 17th-century Tron Kirk transformed into a vibrant indoor market showcasing Scotland’s finest arts and crafts.
City of Edinburgh Tours
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Explore Edinburgh’s haunted underground and historic Old Town with immersive ghost and history tours from the iconic Old Police Box.
Talbot Rice Gallery, The University of Edinburgh
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Explore cutting-edge contemporary art within the historic grandeur of Edinburgh University’s Old College at Talbot Rice Gallery.
Royal Mile
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Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile – a vibrant cobbled artery linking castle, cathedral, and palace through centuries of Scottish heritage.
St. Patrick
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Historic Catholic church in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending neoclassical architecture with deep Irish community roots and serene spiritual ambiance.
ScoziaTour.com
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Discover Scotland's breathtaking beauty and rich history with ScoziaTour, your premier travel agency in Edinburgh.
Essential places to dine
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.
Monteiths
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Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
0.2 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
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.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.3 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
La Garrigue
0.3 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
The Cellar Door
0.3 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.
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 Outsider Restaurant
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Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
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Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
The Devil's Advocate
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Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Under The Stairs
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Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Ondine Restaurant
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
MUMS Great Comfort Food
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Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Galaxy
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Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Enchanted Galaxy
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A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
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.
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.
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 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.
Crest Of Edinburgh
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
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.
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.
Ragamuffin
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Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Eden
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Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
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Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
I Love Scotland
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Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
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.
Captain's Bar
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Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
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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.
Ballie Ballerson
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Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
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.
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.
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.
