George Square, Edinburgh: A Georgian Oasis in the University Heart
Historic Georgian square and university hub with tranquil gardens, literary heritage, and vibrant festival life in the heart of Edinburgh’s South Side.
George Square is a historic Georgian square in the south of Edinburgh's city centre, adjacent to the Meadows park. Established in 1766 as an exclusive residential area outside the Old Town, it now forms a central part of the University of Edinburgh campus. The square features classical Georgian architecture, tranquil gardens with a spiritual labyrinth, and commemorative plaques honoring notable figures such as Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. It also serves as a vibrant venue during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe each August.
A brief summary to George Square
- Edinburgh, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in August to experience George Square’s vibrant role in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with diverse performances.
- Explore the garden labyrinth in the square’s center for a peaceful and reflective walk.
- Look for commemorative plaques honoring literary figures like Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
- Combine your visit with a stroll in the adjacent Meadows park for a fuller outdoor experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 14 or 15 from Edinburgh city centre, which run frequently and stop near George Square. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes and costs around £1.80 per single fare. Buses are accessible but can be busy during peak times.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Trams to the Meadows stop, approximately a 10-minute walk from George Square. Trams run every 7-10 minutes, with tickets costing about £1.70. The walk is on paved paths and suitable for most mobility levels.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central Edinburgh takes around 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10. This option offers door-to-door convenience, especially outside peak hours.
George Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about George Square
Origins and Architectural Heritage
George Square was laid out in 1766 as one of Edinburgh’s earliest expansions beyond the cramped Old Town, designed by architect James Brown. Unlike the grand New Town developments, it offered elegant but more modest two- and three-storey townhouses for the city’s professional and affluent classes. The square’s Georgian architecture is distinguished by decorative stonework techniques such as cherry cocking, which strengthens masonry with smaller stones. The western side of the square retains much of its original character despite mid-20th-century redevelopment, reflecting a blend of historic and modern university buildings that are themselves now protected for their design quality.University of Edinburgh’s Central Campus
Since the early 20th century, the University of Edinburgh has gradually acquired ownership of George Square, transforming it into a hub of academic life. The square houses key university buildings including the main library designed by Sir Basil Spence in 1967, regarded as a landmark of modernist architecture in Europe. The gardens at the centre provide a peaceful green space for students and staff, featuring benches for contemplation and a labyrinth inspired by the 13th-century Chartres Cathedral design, offering a place for spiritual reflection and mindfulness.Literary Connections and Memorials
George Square has been home to several notable residents linked to Edinburgh’s rich literary heritage. Sir Walter Scott spent his childhood here, while Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, famed authors born in Edinburgh, are commemorated with plaques in the square. These memorials celebrate their enduring contributions to literature and their ties to the city and university, enriching the square’s cultural significance.A Cultural Venue in the Festival Fringe
Each August, George Square transforms into a lively performance space during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival. Its gardens and surrounding university buildings provide versatile venues for theatrical productions, music, and other cultural events, blending the historic ambiance with vibrant contemporary creativity.Community and Public Engagement
Beyond its academic and cultural roles, George Square remains a cherished green oasis for locals and visitors alike. Its proximity to the Meadows park enhances its appeal as a tranquil retreat within the city. The square’s layout and maintenance reflect a commitment to preserving its classical Georgian character while accommodating the dynamic life of a modern university campus.Legacy and Preservation Efforts
The redevelopment of George Square in the mid-1900s sparked public debate about heritage conservation in Edinburgh, marking a turning point in protecting the city’s historic architecture. The careful balance between preservation and modernization here exemplifies Edinburgh’s broader approach to maintaining its unique urban fabric, making George Square a living testament to the city’s layered history and evolving identity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Meadows Compass
0.2 km
A serene landmark at the heart of Edinburgh’s beloved green space, blending history, community, and nature.
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
0.3 km
Discover the heartwarming tale of Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s beloved loyal Skye Terrier immortalized in bronze near Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Old College, The University of Edinburgh
0.4 km
Iconic 18th-century classical quadrangle housing Edinburgh Law School and University administration in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.4 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
George IV Bridge
0.4 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Flodden Wall
0.5 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.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Barrie's Close
0.6 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
Department Of Magic
0.6 km
Experience the magical fusion of cocktails and escape rooms at Edinburgh's Department of Magic, where every visit is a thrilling adventure.
Uncovered Edinburgh
0.6 km
Discover the untold stories of Edinburgh's rich history and vibrant culture at Uncovered Edinburgh, a must-visit tourist attraction in Scotland's capital.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.6 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
St Giles' Cathedral
0.6 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of St Giles' Cathedral, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Edinburgh.
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
0.6 km
Explore the historical beauty of Edinburgh with a visit to the Statue of the Fifth Duke of Buccleuch, a remarkable sculpture steeped in Scottish heritage.
Mercat Cross
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Unmissable attractions to see
The University of Edinburgh
0.0 km
Explore the awe-inspiring architecture and rich history of The University of Edinburgh, a prestigious institution in the heart of Scotland's capital.
The Anatomical Museum, The University of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s rich medical heritage through rare anatomical specimens and historic teaching collections in a unique university museum.
McEwan Hall, The University of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover the grandeur of McEwan Hall, a historic auditorium in Edinburgh that hosts cultural events and celebrates the city's rich heritage.
Söderberg The Meadows
0.2 km
Experience authentic Swedish pastries and artisanal sourdough delights in a cozy Edinburgh café near the university.
Ballie Ballerson
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Edinburgh at Ballie Ballerson, where cocktails and camaraderie come together in a whimsical pub setting.
56 North
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail scene at 56 North in Edinburgh, where expertly crafted drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
0.3 km
Historic Edinburgh cemetery famed for Covenanters, Greyfriars Bobby, haunting tales, and Harry Potter inspirations.
City Of The Dead Tours
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh's haunted vaults and graveyards with expert guides blending history, atmosphere, and dark storytelling.
National Museum of Scotland
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s rich heritage and global stories in this vast, family-friendly museum at Edinburgh’s cultural heart.
Greyfriars Bobby's Bar
0.3 km
Experience Edinburgh’s legendary loyalty tale at Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar, a historic pub serving real ales and classic Scottish hospitality.
Talbot Rice Gallery, The University of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art within the historic grandeur of Edinburgh University’s Old College at Talbot Rice Gallery.
Surgeons' Hall Museums
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich surgical history and groundbreaking medical collections in the award-winning Surgeons' Hall Museums.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
0.4 km
Discover the grave that inspired Lord Voldemort’s name in Edinburgh’s historic Greyfriars Kirkyard, a must-visit for Harry Potter fans and history enthusiasts alike.
The Three Sisters
0.5 km
Experience a lively blend of Scottish hospitality, vibrant live music, and delicious food at The Three Sisters in Edinburgh's Cowgate.
Stramash
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant live music venue with nightly bands, late-night dancing, and Scotland’s largest HD sports screen in a unique historic setting.
Essential places to dine
MUMS Great Comfort Food
0.2 km
Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
The Cellar Door
0.4 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.4 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Under The Stairs
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.4 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
tapas3
0.4 km
Authentic Spanish tapas with generous portions and warm hospitality in Edinburgh’s charming Southside neighborhood.
Ondine Restaurant
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Howies Restaurant
0.6 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Maison Bleue
0.6 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
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.
The Piper's Rest
0.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.6 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Blonde Restaurant
0.6 km
Modern European dining with a Scottish twist in Edinburgh’s welcoming Southside neighbourhood.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.6 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.5 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Galaxy
0.5 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.5 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.5 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
The Scotland Shop
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Godiva
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Scottish Experience
0.6 km
Explore the essence of Scotland with unique gifts and authentic souvenirs at the Scottish Experience in Edinburgh.
Fringe Shop
0.6 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Olde Edinburgh
0.6 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
The Court Curio Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
House of Scotland
0.6 km
Explore authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at the House of Scotland, located on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
Heritage of Scotland
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
I Love Scotland
0.6 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Captain's Bar
0.4 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Frankenstein
0.4 km
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
0.4 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.5 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Bow Bar
0.6 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.6 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Copper Still
0.6 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
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.
The Jolly Judge
0.6 km
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.
Whistlebinkies
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Dragonfly
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
The Argyle and Cellar Bar
0.7 km
A vibrant Edinburgh pub with cozy cellar music, quality ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Argyle Place.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.7 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.7 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.7 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
