The Georgian House, Edinburgh
Step back into 18th-century Edinburgh life in this exquisitely restored Georgian townhouse filled with authentic period furnishings and stories.
The Georgian House in Edinburgh’s New Town is a meticulously restored 18th-century townhouse showcasing the elegant lifestyle of affluent Georgian-era residents. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, it features authentic period furnishings, decorative arts, and domestic interiors that vividly evoke late 18th and early 19th-century upper-class living. Visitors explore grand family rooms, servant quarters, and a historic kitchen, enriched by knowledgeable guides and immersive exhibits.
A brief summary to The Georgian House
- 7 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, EH2 4DR, GB
- +441312252160
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 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.
- Allow 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the house, including the basement kitchen and audiovisual presentation.
- National Trust for Scotland members receive free admission, so consider joining if you plan multiple visits.
- Note that the house has limited accessibility due to stairs and no restrooms inside; plan accordingly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus
Frequent Citylink buses run along Princes Street, with stops a short walk from The Georgian House. Travel time from Edinburgh city center is approximately 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £1.80-£3.50 depending on distance.
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Train and Walk
From Waverley or Haymarket train stations, it is a 15-20 minute walk to The Georgian House through Edinburgh’s New Town. The route is mostly flat but includes some cobbled streets.
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Taxi
Taxis from Edinburgh city center to Charlotte Square take about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £6 to £12.
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Car
Limited parking is available in Charlotte Square and nearby streets with City of Edinburgh Council parking charges. Larger public car parks are located on Castle Terrace and George Street. Parking fees vary, generally £1.50-£3.00 per hour.
The Georgian House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Georgian House
A Testament to Georgian Elegance in Edinburgh
The Georgian House stands proudly at 7 Charlotte Square, a jewel in Edinburgh’s New Town, an area famed for its elegant Georgian architecture. Built in 1796 and designed by the celebrated architect Robert Adam, this townhouse exemplifies the refined tastes and social aspirations of Scotland’s wealthy elite during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The house was originally home to John Lamont, 18th Chief of Clan Lamont, whose family lived here until 1815. Today, the house is carefully restored to reflect the period’s domestic life, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the past.Authentic Interiors and Period Furnishings
Inside, visitors encounter exquisitely restored rooms across three floors, each decorated with period-appropriate furniture, paintings, silverware, and china. The drawing room and dining room, the grandest spaces in the house, are adorned with original Persian rugs, folding screens designed to protect ladies’ makeup from fireplace drafts, and artworks by renowned Scottish painters such as Allan Ramsay and Henry Raeburn. The attention to detail extends to the smaller, intimate rooms, creating a vivid, atmospheric experience that transports visitors back in time.The Lives of Servants and the Working Household
The basement and lower floors reveal the vital but often overlooked world of the servants who sustained the household. Visitors can explore the kitchen, wine cellar, china closet, and cramped windowless servants’ quarters. The kitchen exhibit is particularly immersive, with authentic pots, pans, and utensils arranged to evoke the bustle of 18th-century domestic service. An introductory audiovisual presentation in the basement provides historical context about the house and its inhabitants, highlighting the stark social contrasts of the era.Engaging Guides and Immersive Storytelling
Throughout the house, knowledgeable volunteers and staff dressed in period costume enliven the experience, offering fascinating stories and answering visitors’ questions. Their enthusiasm and expertise deepen understanding of the social history, architectural significance, and daily routines of Georgian Edinburgh’s upper class and their servants. Informative placards and a short film titled "Living in a Grand Design" complement the self-guided tour, making the visit accessible and engaging for all ages.Setting and Surroundings in Edinburgh’s New Town
Charlotte Square remains one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious addresses, surrounded by other fine examples of Georgian architecture and private gardens. The Georgian House’s central location places it within walking distance of Princes Street, Edinburgh Castle, and other key landmarks, making it a perfect cultural stop when exploring the city. The house’s elegant façade and historical significance contribute to the character of New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
A typical visit lasts between 1.5 and 2 hours, allowing time to explore all public rooms, watch the introductory film, and engage with guides. The house is open daily from 10:00 to 17:00 during most of the year, with shorter hours in winter. Admission fees apply, with discounts for concessions, families, and National Trust for Scotland members who enjoy free entry. While the house offers no café, the surrounding area provides ample dining options. Accessibility is limited due to stairs and historic architecture, and there are no restrooms inside the house, but a small gift shop is available at the entrance. The Georgian House offers a captivating journey into Edinburgh’s Georgian past, blending architectural beauty, social history, and immersive storytelling to create a memorable cultural experience.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
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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
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A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
Statue of King George Ⅳ
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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
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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
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Discover The India Cross in Edinburgh, a historical landmark that showcases the city's cultural connections with India amidst stunning surroundings.
The Witches Well
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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
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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
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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
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Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
John Knox Monument
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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
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Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Dean Cemetery
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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
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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
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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
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A dazzling Victorian cast-iron fountain beneath Edinburgh Castle, blending French artistry with Scottish heritage in vibrant color.
Heriot Row
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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
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A lively, historic pedestrian street in Edinburgh’s New Town, famed for its pubs, boutique shops, and rich literary heritage.
Panoramic view Castle
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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
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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
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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
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Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Aizle
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Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
Forage & Chatter
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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
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Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
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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
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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
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A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Never Really Here
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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
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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
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
