The Cats Miaou: Edinburgh’s Quirky Gift Haven in Leith
A vibrant Leith gift shop bursting with quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced handmade treasures in Edinburgh.
Nestled in the vibrant Leith area of Edinburgh, The Cats Miaou is a lively and colorful gift shop known for its quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced, handmade gifts. This charming boutique offers a wide range of unique items including coasters, badges, mugs, and crafts that appeal to a broad audience seeking distinctive and affordable treasures.
A brief summary to The Cats Miaou
- 36 Elm Row, Edinburgh, EH7 4AH, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-6:30 pm
- Saturday 11 am-6:30 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter shopping experience and more personalized attention.
- Explore the range of ethically sourced gifts to find unique souvenirs with a story.
- Check out the colorful mugs and badges, popular for gifting and personal collections.
- Plan your visit during opening hours from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM on weekdays and until 4 PM on Sundays.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Cats Miaou location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Cats Miaou
A Delightful Boutique in Edinburgh’s Leith District
The Cats Miaou is located on Elm Row in Leith, a lively district known for its creative spirit and welcoming atmosphere. This gift shop stands out with its bright, quirky aesthetic and a carefully curated selection of products that blend humor with charm. The shop’s name itself hints at its playful character, inviting visitors to explore a world of colorful, pun-inspired designs.Unique and Ethically Sourced Gifts
The store specializes in ethically sourced, handmade gifts, appealing to conscientious shoppers who value sustainability alongside creativity. From handcrafted badges and coasters to mugs and other pick-up items, each product is chosen to offer both quality and affordability. The Cats Miaou supports local artisans and small-scale producers, ensuring that many items carry a personal touch and a story behind them.An Atmosphere of Warmth and Whimsy
Visitors to The Cats Miaou often remark on the friendly and inviting atmosphere. The shop’s interior bursts with color and playful designs, making it a joyful place to browse and discover. The pun-laden products add a layer of fun, making the shopping experience not only about purchasing but also about enjoying the creativity on display.Community and Cultural Connection
Situated in a culturally rich neighborhood, The Cats Miaou reflects the artistic energy of Leith. It acts as a hub for those seeking gifts that are not mass-produced but carry unique character and cultural resonance. The shop contributes to the local creative economy, fostering connections between customers and makers.Practical Details and Visiting Experience
Open six days a week with slightly reduced hours on Sunday, The Cats Miaou welcomes visitors from mid-morning to early evening. Its accessible location on Elm Row makes it easy to include in a day exploring Leith’s other attractions. The shop’s size and layout create an intimate browsing experience, perfect for thoughtful gift hunting or personal treats.Celebrating Creativity and Ethical Shopping
The Cats Miaou embodies a blend of playful design and ethical consumerism. It offers a refreshing alternative to conventional gift shops by emphasizing handmade quality, sustainability, and a sense of humor. This combination makes it a standout destination for locals and tourists alike who appreciate originality and responsible shopping.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dugald Stewart Monument
0.6 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
0.7 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
0.7 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Burns Monument
0.7 km
Edinburgh's classical tribute to Scotland's national poet, a Neo-Greek temple with commanding city views.
The Centre of Edinburgh
0.8 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
0.8 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
0.8 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Queen Mary's Bath House
0.9 km
A rare 16th-century Tudor pavilion near Holyrood Palace, steeped in royal mystery and linked to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Melville Monument
0.9 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Robert Fergusson Statue
0.9 km
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
North Bridge
0.9 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
1.0 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
1.0 km
Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
Wellhead at John Knox House
1.0 km
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage
0.4 km
Discover the heroic history of Scottish firefighting through vintage engines, interactive exhibits, and authentic stories in Edinburgh’s city-centre museum.
Leith Walk
0.4 km
Leith Walk is Edinburgh’s vibrant, historic street linking city centre buzz with the lively maritime charm of Leith’s waterfront.
Playfair Monument
0.5 km
Elegant Greek Doric memorial on Calton Hill honoring John Playfair, a pillar of Edinburgh’s Enlightenment and uncle to architect William Playfair.
National Monument of Scotland
0.5 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at the National Monument of Scotland on Calton Hill, a stunning Edinburgh landmark.
Nelson Monument
0.6 km
Discover the Nelson Monument on Calton Hill, a stunning tribute to Admiral Lord Nelson with panoramic views and rich maritime history in Edinburgh.
Monument to the Scottish Parliament
0.6 km
Explore Scotland’s bold and modern seat of democracy, where architecture and politics intertwine in Edinburgh’s historic heart.
St James Quarter
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s largest retail and leisure district, blending shopping, dining, entertainment, and luxury stays in the city centre.
Steps to Calton Hill
0.6 km
Ascend the iconic steps to Calton Hill for breathtaking views, historic monuments, and a serene escape in the heart of Edinburgh.
Old Calton Cemetery
0.7 km
Historic resting place on Calton Hill with notable monuments and panoramic views of Edinburgh’s rich heritage.
Heart of Scotland Tours
0.7 km
Explore Scotland’s iconic sights and hidden gems with intimate, expertly guided small-group tours departing from Edinburgh’s Waterloo Place.
Regent Rd
0.7 km
Tranquil urban park and historic street offering stunning views and cultural landmarks in the heart of Edinburgh.
Multrees Walk
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s luxury shopping street, home to Scotland’s only Harvey Nichols, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and more in a stylish pedestrian precinct.
Waterloo Pl
0.7 km
Waterloo Place: historic gateway bridging Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with Georgian elegance and sweeping city views.
Jacob's Ladder
0.7 km
Historic and steep, Jacob's Ladder links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and a glowing nighttime presence.
The Stand Comedy Club
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s iconic basement comedy club delivering lively stand-up shows with a warm, intimate atmosphere and a mix of top and emerging talent.
Essential places to dine
Down The Hatch Edinburgh
0.2 km
Bold Canadian comfort food and lively vibes meet in the heart of Edinburgh’s Antigua Street for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
The Walnut
0.3 km
Cozy and unpretentious, The Walnut offers seasonal Scottish dishes with creative flair and excellent value on Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Walk.
The Gardener's Cottage
0.3 km
An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
Taisteal
0.4 km
A Michelin-mentioned Edinburgh gem where Scottish ingredients meet global flavours in a warm, intimate setting.
Educated Flea
0.5 km
Discover bold, inventive fusion cuisine with a Scottish twist in a cozy, friendly spot on Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Fhior
0.5 km
Experience innovative Scottish fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a minimalist, elegant setting at Edinburgh’s acclaimed Fhior.
L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine Bar
0.5 km
Authentic French bistro in Edinburgh blending classic cuisine with fresh Scottish ingredients and a cozy wine bar atmosphere.
The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
0.5 km
Suspended fine dining with panoramic Edinburgh views from an architectural marvel atop Calton Hill.
The Botanist Edinburgh
0.6 km
A lush botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Edinburgh’s New Town, offering creative cocktails, hearty British fare, and live music in a vibrant garden setting.
Howies Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.
Duck & Waffle
0.7 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant St James Quarter hotspot where modern British cuisine meets playful indulgence and stylish atmosphere.
The Magnum
0.7 km
A cozy yet stylish Edinburgh restaurant blending classic Scottish flavors with creative modern cuisine and a lively bar atmosphere.
Tattu Edinburgh
0.8 km
Experience modern Chinese cuisine in a stunning setting blending Edinburgh’s historic charm with contemporary elegance.
Hawksmoor Edinburgh
0.8 km
A grand art deco steakhouse in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving exceptional grass-fed beef and Scottish seafood in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
Lady Libertine
0.9 km
A chic Edinburgh hotspot blending inventive cocktails, Mediterranean mezze, and art deco vibes across two stylish floors.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Cats Miaou
0.0 km
A vibrant Leith gift shop bursting with quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced handmade treasures in Edinburgh.
Curiouser & Curiouser
0.5 km
A design-led independent shop in Edinburgh, filled with art, cards, homewares, and unique gifts with a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic.
The Dragonfly
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Wee Leith Shop
0.6 km
Quirky novelties and charming gifts await in this cozy Leith Walk gem, capturing the neighborhood's independent spirit with playful treasures for every home.
Planet.A Boutique
0.7 km
Discover Edinburgh’s stylish and sustainable gift shop offering unique local treasures and eco-friendly finds on Easter Road.
Pure Scottish
0.9 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Holyrood Gift Shop
0.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and souvenirs in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at Holyrood Gift Shop.
Anime Republic
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant anime gift shop and community hub offering collectibles, manga, and events for fans of all levels.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.9 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
0.9 km
Authentic Scottish kilts and Highland dress on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
The Wyrd Shop
0.9 km
Edinburgh's esoteric gem on Canongate: crystals, tarot, pagan jewelry, and magickal handmade treasures in a cozy witchy haven.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
1.0 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Ragamuffin
1.0 km
Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Real Scot Shop
1.0 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
Heritage Clearance Store
1.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Street
0.5 km
Casual cocktail bar by day, energetic late-night bar and small club by night — Picardy Place’s go-to spot for social evenings and weekend parties.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
0.7 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
Nightcap
0.8 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.8 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Cocktail Geeks
0.9 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
1.1 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Royal Mile Tavern
1.1 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Bramble Bar
1.1 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
1.1 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Grand Cru
1.1 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.
Whistlebinkies
1.1 km
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
1.2 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Hoot The Redeemer
1.2 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
The Banshee Labyrinth
1.2 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Thistle Street Bar
1.2 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Why Not Nightclub
1.1 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
1.1 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Garibaldi's
1.1 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
1.2 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.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
1.2 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Opal Lounge
1.2 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Cabaret Voltaire
1.2 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
1.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
1.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
1.4 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
1.4 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
1.4 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
1.4 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
1.5 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
1.6 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
- Quirky
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly