St James Quarter, Edinburgh’s Premier Retail and Leisure Destination
Edinburgh’s vibrant retail and leisure hub blending luxury shopping, diverse dining, entertainment, and urban lifestyle in the city centre.
St James Quarter is Edinburgh’s largest retail and leisure district, located in the heart of the city centre. Opened in 2021 on the site of the former St. James Centre, it offers over 80 shops, 40+ restaurants and bars, a boutique Everyman Cinema, and premium hotels including W Edinburgh. This vibrant galleria blends luxury and high street brands with entertainment and dining, making it a dynamic hub for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
A brief summary to St James Quarter
- St James Cres, Edinburgh, EH1 3AD, GB
- +441312901118
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
- Thursday 9 am-8 pm
- Friday 9 am-8 pm
- Saturday 9 am-8 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays or early mornings to enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience with fewer crowds.
- Explore the third floor for luxury brands and the champagne bar for a stylish break.
- Take advantage of the extensive EV charging stations if arriving by electric vehicle.
- Check the Quarter’s events calendar for pop-ups and special entertainment during your visit.
- Use the guest services desk on level 1 for mobility assistance, luggage storage, or pet-friendly support.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
From Edinburgh Waverley Station, a 10-15 minute walk or a short taxi ride will bring you to St James Quarter. The station is a major hub with frequent services from across Scotland and England, making it an easy arrival point. Walking routes are accessible and well signposted.
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Tram
Take the Edinburgh Tram to St Andrew Square or Picardy Place stops, both within a 5-10 minute walk of St James Quarter. Trams run every 7-10 minutes during the day, with tickets costing approximately £1.80-£3.50 depending on zones.
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Bus
Multiple Lothian Bus routes serve stops near St James Quarter, including Princes Street and Leith Street. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares around £1.80 for a single journey. The area is well connected with accessible bus stops.
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Car
St James Quarter offers a large car park with over 1,600 spaces, including disabled bays and electric vehicle charging points. Parking is cashless and can be pre-booked via an app. Expect parking fees around £3-£5 per hour depending on duration. The car park operates from 6am to 1am daily.
St James Quarter 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 St James Quarter
A Modern Retail Landmark in Edinburgh’s New Town
St James Quarter stands as a transformative development in Edinburgh’s city centre, revitalizing the historic east end of the New Town. Built on the site of the former St. James Centre and adjoining office buildings, it opened in June 2021 and quickly became a flagship destination for both locals and visitors. The centre integrates seamlessly into the urban fabric, continuing the legacy of Edinburgh’s planned New Town with a contemporary twist. It offers a vast 850,000 square feet of retail space with around 80 units, anchored by the John Lewis & Partners store. The design emphasizes openness and light, with a spacious galleria that invites exploration and leisure.Diverse Shopping and Dining Experiences
The Quarter caters to a broad audience, featuring a mix of global luxury brands such as Boss, Coach, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Tommy Hilfiger alongside popular high street names like Zara, H&M, and Pull & Bear. Beyond shopping, it is a culinary hotspot with over 40 restaurants and bars, including standout venues like Duck and Waffle and Gordon Ramsay Street Burger. The food hall Bonnie & Wild adds to the vibrant dining scene, offering diverse and quality options. This blend of retail and gastronomy creates a lively atmosphere that appeals to shoppers, food lovers, and social groups alike.Entertainment, Accommodation, and Community Facilities
St James Quarter is more than a shopping centre; it is a lifestyle district. It houses a boutique Everyman Cinema, providing a premium movie-going experience. Accommodation options include the W Edinburgh hotel, which opened in 2023, and the Roomzzz Aparthotel, catering to visitors seeking luxury and convenience in the city centre. The development also includes residential apartments, adding a community dimension to the area. Guest services are comprehensive, offering mobility assistance, luggage storage, and pet-friendly facilities, enhancing accessibility and comfort for all visitors.Accessibility and Sustainable Features
Strategically located close to Edinburgh Waverley railway station, Edinburgh Bus Station, and tram stops at St Andrew Square and Picardy Place, St James Quarter is highly accessible by public transport. The centre boasts a spacious car park with over 1,600 spaces, including 70 disabled bays and 45 electric vehicle charging points, promoting sustainable travel. Bicycle racks and dedicated family parking spaces further support eco-friendly and inclusive access. The Quarter’s design and operations emphasize sustainability, aiming to balance urban vibrancy with environmental responsibility.Events, Atmosphere, and Future Developments
The Quarter hosts a dynamic events programme throughout the year, featuring pop-ups, entertainment, and seasonal celebrations that enhance the visitor experience. Its atmosphere is modern, lively, and welcoming, blending retail, leisure, and cultural elements under one roof. In 2026, St James Quarter is set to be rebranded under the Westfield brand following a strategic partnership, which will introduce global retail expertise while preserving the local character and community ties. This evolution promises to further elevate its status as a premier destination in Edinburgh.Iconic Urban Integration and Visitor Experience
The architecture and layout of St James Quarter reflect a careful balance between historic context and contemporary design, creating a unique urban space that feels both grand and accessible. Visitors can enjoy not only shopping and dining but also panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline from nearby vantage points. The Quarter’s commitment to guest services ensures a seamless and enjoyable visit, with amenities designed to meet diverse needs. Whether for a day trip, weekend getaway, or cultural exploration, St James Quarter offers an all-encompassing experience at the heart of Scotland’s capital.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
0.2 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
0.2 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
The Centre of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
0.2 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
0.3 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Dugald Stewart Monument
0.3 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Melville Monument
0.3 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
North Bridge
0.4 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
0.4 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
Museum Context
0.5 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
0.6 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
0.6 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
Multrees Walk
0.1 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
0.2 km
Waterloo Place: historic gateway bridging Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with Georgian elegance and sweeping city views.
Edinburgh
0.2 km
Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, a majestic floating palace and iconic symbol of British royal history and maritime heritage.
The Stand Comedy Club
0.2 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.
Old Calton Cemetery
0.2 km
Historic resting place on Calton Hill with notable monuments and panoramic views of Edinburgh’s rich heritage.
Steps to Calton Hill
0.3 km
Ascend the iconic steps to Calton Hill for breathtaking views, historic monuments, and a serene escape in the heart of Edinburgh.
Waverley Steps
0.3 km
Waverley Steps: A modern, accessible gateway blending historic charm with panoramic views in Edinburgh’s city center.
Heart of Scotland Tours
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s iconic sights and hidden gems with intimate, expertly guided small-group tours departing from Edinburgh’s Waterloo Place.
St Andrew Square
0.3 km
Elegant Georgian square in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending historic grandeur, lush gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant urban life.
Cask
0.3 km
A lively Princes Street rooftop bar with panoramic Old Town views, Peruvian small plates and cosy heated domes for intimate cityside nights.
Edinburgh Bus Tours
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh's rich history and stunning landscapes with convenient and informative bus tours, perfect for every traveler.
National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s rich history and culture through captivating portraits in a stunning Neo-Gothic gallery in Edinburgh’s New Town.
Waverley Market
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s central shopping destination blending historic charm with vibrant retail and dining experiences year-round.
Playfair Monument
0.3 km
Elegant Greek Doric memorial on Calton Hill honoring John Playfair, a pillar of Edinburgh’s Enlightenment and uncle to architect William Playfair.
St Andrew Square & George St
0.4 km
Elegant Georgian square in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending historic grandeur, tranquil gardens, and vibrant cultural life.
Essential places to dine
The Botanist Edinburgh
0.0 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.
Duck & Waffle
0.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant St James Quarter hotspot where modern British cuisine meets playful indulgence and stylish atmosphere.
Tattu Edinburgh
0.2 km
Experience modern Chinese cuisine in a stunning setting blending Edinburgh’s historic charm with contemporary elegance.
Howies Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.
Hawksmoor Edinburgh
0.2 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
0.2 km
A chic Edinburgh hotspot blending inventive cocktails, Mediterranean mezze, and art deco vibes across two stylish floors.
Taisteal
0.3 km
A Michelin-mentioned Edinburgh gem where Scottish ingredients meet global flavours in a warm, intimate setting.
Number One
0.3 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
Twenty Princes Street
0.3 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
Educated Flea
0.3 km
Discover bold, inventive fusion cuisine with a Scottish twist in a cozy, friendly spot on Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
0.3 km
Elevated dining with panoramic Edinburgh views, celebrating seasonal Scottish cuisine in a stunning modern setting atop Calton Hill.
Dishoom Edinburgh
0.3 km
A vibrant Bombay-style café in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving all-day comfort food, bottomless chai and cocktails in a nostalgic, art-deco setting.
The Magnum
0.3 km
A cozy yet stylish Edinburgh restaurant blending classic Scottish flavors with creative modern cuisine and a lively bar atmosphere.
Fhior
0.3 km
Experience innovative Scottish fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a minimalist, elegant setting at Edinburgh’s acclaimed Fhior.
Gaucho Edinburgh
0.3 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium Pampas beef and elegant ambiance in Edinburgh’s vibrant city center.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pure Scottish
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Anime Republic
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant anime gift shop and community hub offering collectibles, manga, and events for fans of all levels.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.4 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Curiouser & Curiouser
0.4 km
A design-led independent shop in Edinburgh, filled with art, cards, homewares, and unique gifts with a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic.
The Dragonfly
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.5 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Eden
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
The Wee Gift Shop
0.6 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
scottish experience cashmere place
0.6 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
Great Scot
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Heritage Clearance Store
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
Real Scot Shop
0.6 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
Ragamuffin
0.6 km
Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alchemist
0.1 km
Theatrical cocktails that smoke and sparkle, inventive global dishes, and an alchemist's lair in Edinburgh's St James Quarter—pure mixology magic awaits.
The Street
0.2 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 Voodoo Rooms
0.2 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Nightcap
0.3 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
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.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.5 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.6 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Grand Cru
0.6 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.
Bramble Bar
0.6 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.6 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
The World's End
0.6 km
Discover the charm of The World's End pub on the Royal Mile, where history meets hearty Scottish cuisine and local brews in Edinburgh.
Whistlebinkies
0.6 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
0.6 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Thistle Street Bar
0.7 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.7 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Garibaldi's
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.7 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.7 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
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.8 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
0.8 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
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
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.9 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
1.1 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
- Lively
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
