Scottish Design Exchange – Edinburgh’s Hub for Local Artistry
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
The Scottish Design Exchange in Edinburgh is a vibrant social enterprise shop showcasing over 300 local Scottish artists and designers. Located on George Street, it offers unique handmade jewellery, prints, pottery, glassware, and original art, with every penny spent going directly to the creators. This creative hub supports Scotland’s artistic community while providing visitors with an inspiring shopping experience in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to Scottish Design Exchange
- 117-119 George St, Edinburgh, EH2 4JN, GB
- +441312205066
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
- Thursday 11 am-6 pm
- Friday 11 am-6 pm
- Saturday 11 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter shopping experience and more personalized attention from staff.
- Look for unique Scottish gifts including jewellery, prints, and pottery that you won’t find elsewhere.
- Check out the online shop if you want to explore the artists’ work before or after your visit.
- Ask staff about the artists behind the pieces to learn more about their creative stories.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Scottish Design Exchange 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 Scottish Design Exchange
A Bold Retail Revolution Supporting Scottish Creators
The Scottish Design Exchange (SDX) is more than just a shop; it is a pioneering social enterprise dedicated to revitalizing Scotland’s High Streets by championing local artists and designers. Founded to combat the decline of traditional retail dominated by corporate chains, SDX offers a unique platform where over 300 artists can display and sell their work without the burden of high commissions. Instead, artists pay a nominal rent for their display spaces, ensuring that almost every penny spent by customers flows directly to the creators themselves. This innovative economic model fosters fairness and sustainability in retail, putting people over profit and boosting the local creative economy.Eclectic Collections and Artistic Diversity
Visitors to the Edinburgh location on 117-119 George Street will find a rich array of original designs spanning jewellery, prints, pottery, glassware, and original art pieces. The shop’s carefully curated selection reflects the diverse talents of Scotland’s creative community, from artists working in home studios to those in shared creative spaces. Each item is unique, offering a personal touch and a story behind its creation. The store’s atmosphere is lively yet welcoming, inviting shoppers to explore and discover distinctive gifts or special pieces to enhance their homes.Community and Creative Support
Beyond retail, the Scottish Design Exchange serves as a nurturing community for artists and designers who often face isolation and business challenges. SDX provides advice, support, and networking opportunities to help Scottish brands flourish. This sense of community is integral to the enterprise’s mission, creating a collaborative environment where creativity and entrepreneurship thrive side by side. The Edinburgh store is part of a growing network that includes locations in Glasgow and an expanding online shop, broadening access to Scottish-made art and design.Historic Location with Contemporary Spirit
Situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s bustling George Street, the Scottish Design Exchange benefits from a prime city-centre location that blends historic charm with modern retail innovation. The store’s presence contributes to the cultural vibrancy of the area, offering visitors a chance to engage with Scotland’s artistic heritage through contemporary expressions. Accessibility is a priority, with wheelchair access and welcoming staff enhancing the inclusive shopping experience.Impact and Recognition
The Scottish Design Exchange has gained recognition in national media and among economic commentators for its socially conscious retail model. It has been praised for rethinking the high street by prioritizing artists’ earnings and fostering local economies. This approach has helped many artists gain wider exposure and financial stability, with some founding artists now stocked across numerous outlets nationwide. The Edinburgh store continues to attract locals and tourists alike, drawn by its authentic, community-driven ethos and the quality of its offerings.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
Open daily from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (with slightly shorter hours on Sundays), the Scottish Design Exchange offers a relaxed yet stimulating environment for browsing. Visitors typically spend under an hour exploring the varied displays, making it an ideal stop for those interested in unique Scottish art and crafts. The store’s commitment to sustainability and local impact adds meaningful context to every purchase, enriching the visitor experience beyond mere shopping.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
15 Charlotte Square
0.3 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.3 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
0.5 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
The Dean Bridge
0.6 km
A soaring 19th-century stone bridge by Thomas Telford, linking Edinburgh’s New Town with the scenic Water of Leith valley.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
0.7 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.7 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
East Princes Street Gardens
0.7 km
Explore the beauty and tranquility of East Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh, a hidden gem offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat.
John Knox Monument
0.7 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.
St Andrew Square & George St
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant charm of St Andrew Square & George Street, where historic elegance meets modern flair in the heart of Edinburgh.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
0.7 km
Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
0.7 km
Explore the rich heritage of Scotch whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh, where tradition meets taste in every sip.
Scott Monument
0.7 km
Explore the majestic Scott Monument in Edinburgh, a stunning Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott, offering panoramic city views and rich literary history.
Milne's Court
0.7 km
Discover Milne's Court, a captivating historical landmark in Edinburgh, where the past meets the present in a picturesque setting.
Lady Stair's Close
0.7 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 Writers' Museum
0.7 km
Explore The Writers' Museum in Edinburgh, a tribute to Scotland's literary greats and a treasure trove for literature lovers seeking inspiration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Charlotte Square
0.2 km
Charlotte Square: Edinburgh’s elegant Georgian masterpiece, home to historic architecture, tranquil gardens, and Scotland’s First Minister.
The Georgian House
0.2 km
Step back into 18th-century Edinburgh life in this exquisitely restored Georgian townhouse filled with authentic period furnishings and stories.
Ross Fountain
0.3 km
A dazzling Victorian cast-iron fountain beneath Edinburgh Castle, blending French artistry with Scottish heritage in vibrant color.
Rose St
0.3 km
A lively, historic pedestrian street in Edinburgh’s New Town, famed for its pubs, boutique shops, and rich literary heritage.
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.
Panoramic view Castle
0.3 km
Discover breathtaking, near eye-level views of Edinburgh Castle framed by historic gardens and vibrant city life at Princes Street.
The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
0.3 km
Explore the Parish Church of St Cuthbert, Edinburgh's historic spiritual haven filled with stunning architecture and rich heritage.
Heriot Row
0.4 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.
Assembly Rooms
0.4 km
Timeless Georgian elegance meets vibrant cultural life in Edinburgh’s iconic Assembly Rooms on George Street.
Princes Street Gardens
0.4 km
Historic urban oasis in Edinburgh’s heart, featuring iconic monuments, seasonal events, and stunning views beneath the castle.
Princes St
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s bustling main street with stunning views, historic gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant shopping in the heart of the city.
One O’Clock Gun
0.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s iconic One O’Clock Gun, a historic maritime time signal fired daily from Edinburgh Castle since 1861.
National War Museum
0.5 km
Explore Scotland’s rich military history through artifacts, personal stories, and art within the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
Floral Clock
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s iconic Floral Clock, a vibrant living timepiece blooming with seasonal flowers in the heart of Princes Street Gardens.
Edinburgh Castle - Mill's Mount Battery
0.5 km
Historic fortress atop Castle Rock offering iconic views, royal treasures, and rich Scottish military heritage in the heart of Edinburgh.
Essential places to dine
Badger & Co
0.1 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.1 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
BABA
0.1 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Contini George Street
0.1 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Aizle
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room 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.
Forage & Chatter
0.4 km
Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
Six by Nico Edinburgh
0.5 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.
Dine Edinburgh
0.5 km
Elegant Scottish brasserie above the Traverse Theatre, blending seasonal local flavors with refined service and a chic cocktail lounge.
The Table
0.6 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Purslane Restaurant
0.6 km
Intimate basement fine dining where ambitious modern cuisine meets Scottish sourcing and genuine hospitality.
Amarone
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively ambiance in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town at Amarone, a bustling Italian restaurant with a rich menu.
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.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.7 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
TIMBERYARD
0.7 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Scottish Design Exchange
0.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
The Treasure Trove
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
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.
ScotlandShop
0.4 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.5 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Great Scot
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Greyfriars Art
0.6 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
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.
Unicorn Antiques
0.7 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gem for authentic antiques, vintage furniture, and timeless treasures at Unicorn Antiques on Dundas Street.
The Court Curio Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Carnivàle Vintage
0.7 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Herman Brown
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
House of Scotland
0.7 km
Explore authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at the House of Scotland, located on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Copper Blossom
0.1 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
Never Really Here
0.1 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
Panda & Sons
0.2 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.
Lucky Liquor Co
0.3 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
The Bon Vivant
0.3 km
Candlelit bistro haven on Thistle Street, pouring award-winning cocktails and serving local Scottish fare with French finesse since 2008.
The Caley Bar
0.4 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.
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gin haven where craft distilling meets cozy speakeasy charm in the heart of the West End.
The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s iconic American-style piano bar blending live music and classic cocktails in a lively West End setting.
Thistle Street Bar
0.4 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
NQ64 Edinburgh
0.5 km
A neon-lit arcade bar in Edinburgh blending retro gaming classics with creative cocktails and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
Grand Cru
0.5 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.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.5 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Bramble Bar
0.5 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.0 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.2 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Opal Lounge
0.4 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
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.
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.
Garibaldi's
0.5 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.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
The Liquid Room
0.8 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
0.9 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
0.9 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
1.1 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
La Belle Angele
1.1 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
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
- Sustainable
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
