The Georgian House, Edinburgh: A Journey into 18th-Century Elegance
Step back into 18th-century Edinburgh with a visit to The Georgian House, a beautifully restored townhouse showcasing elegant Georgian life and history.
The Georgian House in Edinburgh is a meticulously restored 18th-century townhouse showcasing the lifestyle of affluent New Town residents. Visitors explore grand family rooms adorned with period furnishings, exquisite Scottish artworks, and authentic decorative arts. The house also reveals the lives of servants ‘below stairs’ through its kitchen and basement areas. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, it offers an immersive glimpse into Georgian social history in one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious squares.
A brief summary to The Georgian House
- 7 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, EH2 4DR, GB
- +441312252160
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-12:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more intimate experience with fewer crowds.
- Engage with the knowledgeable guides in each room to enrich your understanding of Georgian life.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the house has multiple floors with stairs and no elevator.
- Check opening hours seasonally and consider booking tickets in advance to secure your visit.
- Explore the basement kitchen and servants’ quarters to gain insight into the lives of the household staff.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Frequent Citylink bus services run along Princes Street, with stops a short walk from Charlotte Square. Travel time from Edinburgh city centre is typically 10-20 minutes. Tickets cost around £1.80–£3.00 depending on route.
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Train and Walk
From Edinburgh Waverley or Haymarket stations, it is a 15-20 minute walk to The Georgian House through the New Town area. The walk is mostly flat but involves urban streets.
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Car
Limited parking is available near Charlotte Square and Glenfinlas Street. Additional paid parking can be found on George Street and St Colme Street. Parking fees vary, typically £1.50–£3.00 per hour.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Edinburgh city centre to Charlotte Square takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic, costing approximately £6–£10.
The Georgian House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Georgian House
Architectural Grandeur and Historical Context
The Georgian House, located at 7 Charlotte Square in Edinburgh’s New Town, is a prime example of late 18th-century urban design. Designed by the renowned Scottish architect Robert Adam in 1796, this townhouse epitomizes the elegance and social aspirations of Edinburgh’s wealthy elite during the Georgian era. The New Town itself was a planned development aimed at providing spacious and stylish residences away from the overcrowded Old Town. The house’s façade and interior reflect the refined tastes and Enlightenment ideals of its original inhabitants, including John Lamont, the 18th Chief of Clan Lamont, who lived here until 1815.Authentic Interiors and Period Furnishings
Visitors can wander through five floors, three of which are open to the public, with rooms meticulously restored to their original Georgian color schemes and decorated with authentic furniture, paintings, silverware, and china. The grand drawing room and dining room on the first floor were designed for entertaining guests in style, featuring original elements such as folding screens placed before fireplaces to protect women’s makeup. Throughout the house, the furnishings and decorative arts showcase the craftsmanship and cultural tastes of the era, including works by prominent Scottish artists like Allan Ramsay and Henry Raeburn.Life Below Stairs: Servants’ Quarters and Kitchen
The basement and kitchen areas offer a vivid portrayal of the domestic operations that sustained the family’s lifestyle. Visitors can hear the imagined sounds of servants at work and see the restored kitchen with its pots, pans, and utensils. The cramped, windowless rooms where staff slept highlight the stark contrast between the lives of the household’s owners and their servants. This section provides a unique insight into the social hierarchy and daily routines that defined Georgian domestic service.Engaging Visitor Experience and Educational Value
The Georgian House offers an immersive experience enhanced by knowledgeable and friendly guides who often wear period costumes. Each room features volunteers ready to share fascinating stories and answer questions, bringing history to life. An introductory film provides context about Edinburgh’s New Town and the house’s significance. The self-guided tour allows visitors to explore at their own pace, with informative placards and interactive elements enriching the visit. The house also hosts occasional events and is available for private functions, including weddings.Location and Surroundings
Situated in the prestigious Charlotte Square, the Georgian House is surrounded by other fine examples of Georgian architecture and private gardens reserved for residents. Its central location places it within walking distance of Princes Street, Edinburgh Castle, and several museums and parks. The area’s elegant streetscape contributes to the house’s atmosphere, making it a highlight of Edinburgh’s New Town heritage.Practical Information for Visitors
The house is open daily from March to November, with varying hours by season, generally 10:00 to 17:00. Admission fees apply, with concessions and family tickets available; National Trust for Scotland members enter free. Accessibility is limited due to stairs and no elevator, and there are no restrooms inside the house. Nearby amenities include cafés and restaurants. Advance booking is recommended but not mandatory. Public transport options, including frequent buses along Princes Street, make the house easily reachable.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
15 Charlotte Square
0.1 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
The Dean Bridge
0.4 km
A soaring 19th-century stone bridge by Thomas Telford, linking Edinburgh’s New Town with the scenic Water of Leith valley.
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.5 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
Statue of King George Ⅳ
0.7 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
Forward and Half Moon Battery
0.7 km
Discover the rich military history and breathtaking views of the Forward and Half Moon Battery at Edinburgh Castle, a must-see for every traveler.
The India Cross
0.8 km
Discover The India Cross in Edinburgh, a historical landmark that showcases the city's cultural connections with India amidst stunning surroundings.
The Witches Well
0.8 km
A poignant cast iron memorial outside Edinburgh Castle honoring the thousands accused and executed as witches in Scotland’s dark past.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
0.9 km
Explore the rich heritage of Scotch whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh, where tradition meets taste in every sip.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
0.9 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
0.9 km
Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
John Knox Monument
0.9 km
Explore the historic John Knox Monument, a stunning tribute to the Scottish Reformer, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich religious history.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.9 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Dean Cemetery
0.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and historical richness of Dean Cemetery, a hidden gem in Edinburgh with stunning architecture and serene landscapes.
East Princes Street Gardens
0.9 km
Explore the beauty and tranquility of East Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh, a hidden gem offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat.
St Andrew Square & George St
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant charm of St Andrew Square & George Street, where historic elegance meets modern flair in the heart of Edinburgh.
Unmissable attractions to see
Charlotte Square
0.1 km
Charlotte Square: Edinburgh’s elegant Georgian masterpiece, home to historic architecture, tranquil gardens, and Scotland’s First Minister.
The Oxford Bar
0.2 km
Experience the heart of Edinburgh at The Oxford Bar, a historic pub known for its literary connections and welcoming atmosphere.
St. John's Church Hall
0.3 km
Historic Gothic church hall on Princes Street, blending stunning stained glass artistry with vibrant community events in Edinburgh’s New Town.
The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
0.4 km
Explore the Parish Church of St Cuthbert, Edinburgh's historic spiritual haven filled with stunning architecture and rich heritage.
St. Bernard's Well
0.4 km
An exquisite 18th-century Greco-Roman temple over a healing spring, blending classical beauty with Edinburgh’s rich spa heritage.
Ross Fountain
0.4 km
A dazzling Victorian cast-iron fountain beneath Edinburgh Castle, blending French artistry with Scottish heritage in vibrant color.
Heriot Row
0.5 km
Discover the timeless elegance and historic charm of Heriot Row, a prestigious Georgian street overlooking tranquil gardens in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town.
Rose St
0.5 km
A lively, historic pedestrian street in Edinburgh’s New Town, famed for its pubs, boutique shops, and rich literary heritage.
Panoramic view Castle
0.5 km
Discover breathtaking, near eye-level views of Edinburgh Castle framed by historic gardens and vibrant city life at Princes Street.
Lothian Rd
0.6 km
Lothian Road pulses with Edinburgh’s cultural heartbeat, blending historic theatres, cinemas, and vibrant urban life beneath the shadow of the castle.
Edinburgh Guided Tour
0.6 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural heart through the iconic Usher Hall and its rich musical heritage on an immersive guided tour.
Stockbridge Market
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant Sunday market offering fresh local produce, street food, crafts, and a lively community atmosphere in charming Stockbridge.
One O’Clock Gun
0.6 km
Experience Edinburgh’s iconic One O’Clock Gun, a historic maritime time signal fired daily from Edinburgh Castle since 1861.
National War Museum
0.6 km
Explore Scotland’s rich military history through artifacts, personal stories, and art within the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
Well Court
0.6 km
Discover Well Court, a beautifully restored Victorian Arts and Crafts social housing gem nestled in Edinburgh’s tranquil Dean Village.
Essential places to dine
BABA
0.2 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Aizle
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
Forage & Chatter
0.2 km
Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
Badger & Co
0.3 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
The Pompadour
0.3 km
Experience refined modern Scottish cuisine with stunning Edinburgh Castle views in the elegant setting of 1925 at The Pompadour.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.3 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
Contini George Street
0.3 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Dine Edinburgh
0.6 km
Elegant Scottish brasserie above the Traverse Theatre, blending seasonal local flavors with refined service and a chic cocktail lounge.
Purslane Restaurant
0.6 km
Intimate basement fine dining where ambitious modern cuisine meets Scottish sourcing and genuine hospitality.
Six by Nico Edinburgh
0.7 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Six by Nico for innovative six-course tasting menus blending playful flavors and stylish ambiance in the city’s vibrant New Town.
The Palmerston
0.7 km
A stylish West End restaurant serving modern Scottish cuisine in a refined, relaxed setting just steps from Edinburgh’s city centre.
The Table
0.7 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
TIMBERYARD
0.8 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
The Dome
0.8 km
Experience Edinburgh’s grandest bar and restaurant, where historic elegance meets exceptional dining and festive magic in the heart of New Town.
Amber Restaurant
0.9 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
ScotlandShop
0.2 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
Scottish Design Exchange
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
One World Shop
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
The Treasure Trove
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Those Were The Days Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless elegance and authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s at Edinburgh’s curated boutique, Those Were The Days Vintage.
CIRCUS Vintage and Curios
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and curiosities in Edinburgh’s charming Stockbridge at CIRCUS Vintage and Curios.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.7 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Greyfriars Art
0.7 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
Great Scot
0.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Carnivàle Vintage
0.8 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Herman Brown
0.8 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
0.8 km
Discover Scotland's rich textile heritage at the Tartan Weaving Mill, where history meets craftsmanship in a vibrant exhibition and unique shopping experience.
Unicorn Antiques
0.8 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gem for authentic antiques, vintage furniture, and timeless treasures at Unicorn Antiques on Dundas Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Panda & Sons
0.1 km
Edinburgh's hidden speakeasy where barbershop secrets unlock theatrical cocktails, smoky spectacles, and a fictional family's boozy tales in cosy, low-lit elegance.
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s iconic American-style piano bar blending live music and classic cocktails in a lively West End setting.
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gin haven where craft distilling meets cozy speakeasy charm in the heart of the West End.
The Caley Bar
0.3 km
Step into The Caley Bar for a refined blend of Victorian railway heritage, bespoke cocktails, and Scotland’s finest whiskies in the heart of Edinburgh.
Copper Blossom
0.3 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Never Really Here
0.4 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
Lucky Liquor Co
0.5 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
NQ64 Edinburgh
0.5 km
A neon-lit arcade bar in Edinburgh blending retro gaming classics with creative cocktails and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
0.6 km
Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
The Bon Vivant
0.6 km
Candlelit bistro haven on Thistle Street, pouring award-winning cocktails and serving local Scottish fare with French finesse since 2008.
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
0.6 km
Experience Edinburgh’s craft beer culture in a vibrant, historic setting with legendary wings, 28 taps, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Last Word
0.6 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Thistle Street Bar
0.6 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
Grand Cru
0.7 km
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.2 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.4 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Club Tropicana
0.5 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
Opal Lounge
0.6 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
0.7 km
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.
El Barrio Latino
0.7 km
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.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.8 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.8 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
The Liquid Room
1.0 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
1.1 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
1.1 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
1.1 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Mash House
1.4 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
1.4 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
