The Georgian House, Edinburgh
Step into Edinburgh’s Georgian era with a visit to The Georgian House, a beautifully restored 18th-century townhouse showcasing elegant family life and servant quarters.
The Georgian House in Edinburgh’s New Town is a meticulously restored late 18th-century townhouse designed by Robert Adam. It offers a vivid glimpse into the lives of the wealthy Lamont family and their servants through elegant period rooms, fine collections of art and antiques, and atmospheric servant quarters. Located at 7 Charlotte Square, it embodies Georgian architectural ideals and social history in a prestigious city setting.
A brief summary to The Georgian House
- 7 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, EH2 4DR, GB
- +441312252160
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure entry and guided tours.
- Explore the servant quarters in the basement to gain a full perspective on Georgian household life.
- Visit between March and November when the house is open to the public; it is closed during winter months.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the house has stone stairs and no level access.
- Take time to appreciate the fine art collection featuring works by renowned Scottish painters.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
From Edinburgh Waverley or Haymarket stations, it is a 15 to 20-minute walk to The Georgian House. The route is mostly flat but includes some cobbled streets. No direct parking at the house; nearby stations offer excellent public transport connections.
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Bus
Frequent Citylink and Lothian buses run along Princes Street, with stops within a 5 to 10-minute walk of Charlotte Square. Bus lines 10, 19, 3, 41, 33, and X48 serve the area. Tickets cost around £1.80 to £3.50 depending on distance.
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Car
Limited parking is available on Charlotte Square and Glenfinlas Street, with additional paid parking on George Street, St Colme Street, and a multi-storey car park on Castle Terrace. Parking charges apply, typically £2–£4 per hour. The area has restricted traffic zones.
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Bicycle
Cycle parking with Sheffield stands is available nearby on George Street and Queen Street. Edinburgh’s New Town is bike-friendly with dedicated lanes, making cycling a convenient option.
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
Architectural Elegance and Historical Context
The Georgian House, built in 1796 and designed by renowned Scottish architect Robert Adam, stands as a crowning example of Georgian architecture in Edinburgh’s New Town. It was originally the residence of John Lamont, 18th Chief of the Clan Lamont, reflecting the wealth and status of its inhabitants during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The house’s design embodies the ideals of the Georgian era, with balanced proportions, classical details, and refined interiors that showcase the period’s aesthetic values.Elegant Family Living Spaces
The upper floors of the house feature grand family rooms where the Lamont family entertained guests in style. These rooms are richly decorated with period furnishings, including paintings by prominent Scottish artists such as Allan Ramsay, Henry Raeburn, and Alexander Nasmyth. Notable features include rococo plasterwork, grand fireplaces, Persian rugs, and original folding screens placed in front of fireplaces to protect women’s makeup. The dining and drawing rooms reveal the social rituals and opulent lifestyle of Edinburgh’s elite during the Georgian period.Servants’ Quarters and Domestic Life
The lower floors provide an evocative look at the lives of the household servants who maintained the grand residence. Visitors can explore the atmospheric kitchen, complete with a large range stove rescued from an Edinburgh skip, rows of copper pots, jelly moulds, and the well-stocked wine cellar. The butler’s pantry and servant’s rooms, including the museum’s gift shop, illustrate the behind-the-scenes workings of a Georgian household. The contrast between the lavish family areas and the functional servant spaces offers insight into the social hierarchy of the time.Collections and Exhibits
The Georgian House houses an impressive collection of 18th-century household items, including china, silverware, furniture, and paintings, many with Scottish provenance. These objects enrich the narrative of domestic life, wealth, and culture in Edinburgh’s New Town. An introductory film and audiovisual presentations provide historical context and bring to life the daily routines of the house’s original residents and their servants.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Visitors can tour three floors of the house, which are decorated and furnished as if the family might return at any moment, enhancing the immersive experience. While the house offers a small retail area and gift shop, there is no café on site, though numerous dining options are nearby. Accessibility is limited due to stone stairs and no level access, and advance booking is recommended. The house is temporarily closed during winter months but opens seasonally from March to November.Location and Cultural Significance
Situated at 7 Charlotte Square, the Georgian House is part of Edinburgh’s prestigious New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It stands near other notable landmarks such as Princes Street Gardens and Edinburgh Castle. The house not only preserves architectural heritage but also serves as a cultural touchstone, illustrating the social dynamics and lifestyle of Edinburgh’s affluent classes during the Enlightenment era.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
0.7 km
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
0.4 km
A dazzling Victorian cast-iron fountain beneath Edinburgh Castle, blending French artistry with Scottish heritage in vibrant color.
Heriot Row
0.5 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.
Rose St
0.5 km
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
0.6 km
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
0.6 km
Experience Edinburgh’s iconic One O’Clock Gun, a historic maritime time signal fired daily from Edinburgh Castle since 1861.
National War Museum
0.6 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
0.2 km
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
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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
0.3 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Never Really Here
0.4 km
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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Myth & Legends
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
