Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
A granite heart marking Edinburgh's most infamous prison, where superstition meets Scottish history on the Royal Mile.
A striking heart-shaped granite mosaic embedded in the Royal Mile's cobblestones outside St Giles' Cathedral, marking the site of Edinburgh's infamous Old Tolbooth. This 16th-century administrative building and prison was demolished in 1817, but the mosaic endures as a symbol of the city's dark history. Locals maintain the centuries-old tradition of spitting on the Heart for good luck—a custom born from contempt for the executions and suffering that occurred within those walls. Free to visit and instantly recognizable, it's one of Edinburgh's most iconic landmarks and a must-see on any Royal Mile exploration.
A brief summary to Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
- 197 High St, Edinburgh, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during quieter hours (early morning or late afternoon) to avoid the peak crowds between 1 and 4 pm, allowing for better photography and reflection.
- Combine your visit with St Giles' Cathedral directly adjacent—its Gothic architecture and stained glass windows provide stunning context and photo opportunities.
- Read Sir Walter Scott's novel 'The Heart of Midlothian' before or after your visit to deepen your understanding of the site's literary and historical significance.
- Look for the brass markers on the pavement nearby that outline where the Old Tolbooth's walls once stood, providing a sense of the building's original footprint.
- The Heart is best appreciated as part of a full Royal Mile walk from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, allowing you to understand its place within the city's historic geography.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Edinburgh's city center is served by extensive bus networks. Multiple bus routes serve the Royal Mile area, with stops on Princes Street and South Bridge within 5–10 minutes' walk. Journey times from Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station are approximately 10–15 minutes by bus. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with reduced service in the evening. Single fares cost around £1.80–£2.00 GBP, or purchase a day ticket for £4.50 GBP for unlimited travel.
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Walking from Edinburgh Castle
The Heart of Midlothian lies directly on the Royal Mile's main thoroughfare, approximately 200 meters downhill from Edinburgh Castle's main entrance. The walk takes 3–5 minutes on a gentle downward slope along the historic cobblestone street. The route is fully pedestrianized, well-lit, and lined with shops and attractions. This is the most popular and scenic approach, offering views of historic architecture throughout.
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Walking from Holyrood Palace
From the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the foot of the Royal Mile, the Heart is approximately 400 meters uphill along the main street. The walk takes 7–10 minutes on a gentle upward slope. The entire route is pedestrianized and passes numerous historic sites, museums, and cafes. This approach allows you to experience the Royal Mile's full length and discover hidden closes and side streets.
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Taxi or Ride-Sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services operate throughout Edinburgh. Journey times from the city center are typically 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. However, the Royal Mile's narrow cobblestone streets are pedestrianized, so vehicles cannot access the Heart directly. Taxis can drop you at nearby streets such as Cockburn Street or the Grassmarket, from which it's a 2–3 minute walk. Typical taxi fares from the city center range from £8–£15 GBP.
Heart of Midlothian Mosaic location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
A Monument to Edinburgh's Darkest Chapter
The Heart of Midlothian is a heart-shaped mosaic crafted from colored granite setts, set into the pavement directly outside the western door of St Giles' Cathedral on the Royal Mile. This elegant yet haunting symbol marks the precise location where Edinburgh's Old Tolbooth once stood—a building that served as the city's administrative center, prison, and execution site from the 15th century until its demolition in 1817. The Old Tolbooth was the heart of Midlothian, the ancient county in which Edinburgh was located, and the mosaic preserves this grim legacy for posterity.The Tradition of Spitting: From Disdain to Good Fortune
Perhaps no landmark in Edinburgh is more associated with an unusual custom than the Heart of Midlothian. Locals and visitors alike have maintained a centuries-old tradition of spitting upon the mosaic as they pass—a practice that has transformed in meaning over time. Originally, the act represented contempt and disdain for the horrors that unfolded within the Old Tolbooth's walls: the torture, imprisonment, and public executions that made it one of Scotland's most feared institutions. Over generations, this gesture of revulsion evolved into a superstition, and today it is widely believed that spitting on the Heart ensures the visitor will one day return to Edinburgh. Whether motivated by historical remembrance or modern superstition, the tradition remains vibrantly alive, making the Heart one of the city's most visited and most unusual landmarks.Literary Immortality Through Sir Walter Scott
The Heart of Midlothian gained enduring cultural significance through the work of Sir Walter Scott, Scotland's most celebrated novelist. In 1818, Scott published his seventh Waverley Novel, titled "The Heart of Midlothian," which drew inspiration from the Old Tolbooth and its dark history. Scott's masterwork helped immortalize the building's memory and ensured that even after its physical destruction, the story of the Tolbooth would live on in Scottish consciousness. The novel's popularity led directly to the installation of the heart-shaped mosaic to commemorate the site, transforming a piece of street furniture into a literary landmark. The Heart has since inspired numerous cultural references, most notably becoming the namesake of Heart of Midlothian Football Club, one of Edinburgh's two major football teams.A Living Link to Medieval Edinburgh
Walking the Royal Mile today, visitors stand in the footsteps of centuries of Edinburgh residents and dignitaries. The Heart of Midlothian serves as a tangible connection to the city's medieval and early modern periods, when the Tolbooth functioned as the seat of municipal authority. The building's significance extended beyond its role as a prison; it was where the city's business was conducted, where justice was administered, and where the community's most dramatic moments unfolded. Though the structure itself vanished nearly two centuries ago, the mosaic ensures that the site remains a focal point of historical awareness and reflection.Integration Within the Royal Mile's Historic Tapestry
The Heart of Midlothian occupies a central position on the Royal Mile, one of Europe's most historically rich thoroughfares. Stretching from Edinburgh Castle at the summit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the base, the Mile is lined with centuries-old architecture, hidden closes, and countless attractions. St Giles' Cathedral, which stands immediately adjacent to the Heart, is itself a magnificent medieval structure dating to the 12th century and serves as the mother church of Presbyterianism. The proximity of these two landmarks creates a powerful historical nexus where visitors can contemplate both spiritual and civic dimensions of Edinburgh's past. The Heart's location makes it an essential waypoint on any exploration of the Royal Mile, naturally encountered during a leisurely walk between the castle and palace.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The Heart of Midlothian's greatest strength lies in its accessibility and immediacy. Located on a flat, pedestrian-only section of the Royal Mile, the mosaic is free to visit at any time and requires no tickets, reservations, or planning. The site is relatively accessible to visitors with mobility challenges, though the uneven cobblestone surface may present minor navigation difficulties. The Heart's compact size and straightforward location make it easy to find and photograph, contributing to its status as one of Edinburgh's most Instagrammable landmarks. Whether visited as a deliberate pilgrimage or discovered by chance during a Royal Mile stroll, the Heart offers a moment of reflection on Edinburgh's complex history—a place where beauty, history, superstition, and literature converge in a single heart-shaped stone.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
David Hume Statue
0.1 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
Mercat Cross
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.1 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
Adam Smith Statue
0.1 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Barrie's Close
0.1 km
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
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Lady Stair's Close
0.1 km
Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
The High Street Wellhead
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
Museum Context
0.2 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
George IV Bridge
0.2 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.2 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.2 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
124 High St
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Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Department Of Magic
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Experience the magical fusion of cocktails and escape rooms at Edinburgh's Department of Magic, where every visit is a thrilling adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
0.0 km
An ornate Victorian bronze statue honoring the 5th Duke of Buccleuch’s legacy, set in Edinburgh’s historic Parliament Square.
Parliament Sqr
0.0 km
Historic Parliament Square in Edinburgh blends medieval charm with modern architecture at the gateway to the Royal Mile.
Advocates Close
0.0 km
Discover the steep, historic alleyway of Advocates Close, where medieval charm meets modern vibrancy in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
St Giles' Cathedral
0.0 km
Discover the historic heart of Edinburgh at St Giles' Cathedral, a symbol of Scotland’s faith, history, and architectural grandeur.
Advocate's Cl
0.1 km
Step into history along Advocate's Close, a steep medieval alleyway in Edinburgh’s Old Town, rich with legal heritage and stunning views.
The Real Mary King's Close
0.1 km
Step beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile into a preserved 17th-century close and uncover the city’s hidden stories of plague, poverty, and daily life.
Supreme Courts
0.1 km
Explore the Supreme Courts of Edinburgh, a stunning architectural landmark steeped in Scottish legal history, located in the heart of Scotland's capital.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.1 km
Experience the history and charm of Edinburgh at Deacon Brodie's Tavern, a traditional pub offering local ales and hearty Scottish cuisine.
JK Rowling’s Handprints
0.1 km
Discover the golden handprints of J.K. Rowling at Edinburgh City Chambers, a tribute to the author’s lasting impact on the city and literary world.
The News Steps
0.1 km
Historic stone steps linking Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town, echoing the city’s vibrant newspaper heritage and urban character.
Edinburgh Underground
0.1 km
Descend into Edinburgh’s haunted underground vaults for a thrilling blend of dark history, ghostly tales, and immersive storytelling beneath the Old Town.
Lawnmarket
0.1 km
Stroll the cobbled Lawnmarket, where Edinburgh’s Royal Mile meets centuries of linen traders, philosophers, and hidden closes in the shadow of the Castle.
Uncovered Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover Scotland's political heart and hidden histories at Parliament Square's premier historical experience.
The Lost Close
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden underground vault for immersive whisky tastings and rich historical storytelling beneath the Royal Mile.
Edinburgh City Chambers
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh City Chambers: A Historical Gem in the Heart of Scotland's Capital, Showcasing Governance and Heritage.
Essential places to dine
Angels with Bagpipes
0.0 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Devil's Advocate
0.1 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Ondine Restaurant
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Makars Mash Bar
0.1 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Ecco Vino
0.1 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Howies Restaurant
0.1 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.2 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
The Cellar Door
0.2 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Maison Bleue
0.2 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.2 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Under The Stairs
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
The Piper's Rest
0.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.3 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Amber Restaurant
0.3 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
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
I Love Scotland
0.1 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
Heritage of Scotland
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Olde Edinburgh
0.1 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
Fringe Shop
0.1 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Eden
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
The Court Curio Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.2 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.2 km
Dive into a wizarding wonderland on Victoria Street, where Harry Potter treasures and fantasy fandoms burst from every shelf in Edinburgh's most enchanting gift shop.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.2 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
The Scotland Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.3 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
0.3 km
Discover Scotland's rich textile heritage at the Tartan Weaving Mill, where history meets craftsmanship in a vibrant exhibition and unique shopping experience.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Copper Still
0.2 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.2 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
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 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.
Frankenstein
0.2 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 Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
Whistlebinkies
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.3 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
0.3 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Cask
0.4 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
Ballie Ballerson
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
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.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.4 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
The Cocktail Geeks
0.5 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sneaky Pete's
0.2 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.2 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
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
La Belle Angele
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.3 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.3 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.5 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.
Why Not Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
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.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.7 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
0.9 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Unique
- Quirky
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
