Circus Lane
A flower-draped Georgian mews lane where Edinburgh's elegant past meets contemporary charm.
Circus Lane is a picturesque cobbled mews street in Edinburgh's Stockbridge neighbourhood, renowned for its charming flower-covered terraced houses and Instagram-worthy aesthetic. Built in the early 1800s as service quarters for wealthy New Town residents, the lane features converted stables-turned-garages, colourful hanging baskets, and Victorian street lamps. St Stephen's Church, an A-listed landmark with Europe's longest clock pendulum, anchors the street's northern end. The lane offers a quintessential Edinburgh experience combining Georgian heritage with contemporary appeal.
A brief summary to Circus Lane
- 29 Circus Ln, Edinburgh, EH3 6SU, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak photography crowds and capture softer light that enhances the lane's colours and textures.
- Respect residents' privacy—these are private homes. Avoid blocking driveways, keep noise minimal, and never photograph residents without permission.
- Position yourself at the gentle bend midway along the lane where St Stephen's clocktower frames perfectly in the background for the most iconic photographs.
- Combine your visit with nearby Dean Village and St Stephen's Theatre to create a fuller morning or afternoon exploring Stockbridge's cultural heritage.
- Visit during spring and summer when flowers are in full bloom; winter visits are possible but the floral displays that define the lane's appeal are diminished.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking from Stockbridge
From Stockbridge High Street, head toward St Stephen Street and locate Kerr Street. Turn left onto Kerr Street and continue until you reach Circus Lane on your left, just before Circus Place. The walk from Stockbridge's main commercial area takes approximately 5–10 minutes depending on your starting point. The route is entirely on level, paved streets with good pedestrian infrastructure.
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Public Transport via Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Stockbridge, including services 23, 27, and 42, which stop on Saunders Street or St Stephen Street. From these stops, Circus Lane is a 3–5 minute walk. Buses run frequently throughout the day (typically every 10–15 minutes during peak hours). Single journey fares cost approximately £1.80–£2.00 GBP. Journey time from Edinburgh city centre is 10–15 minutes depending on traffic and your starting point.
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Walking from Edinburgh Waverley Station
From Waverley Station, walk north through Queen Street Gardens and continue onto George Street heading northwest. Follow George Street for approximately 800 metres until you reach the Stockbridge area. Turn left onto Saunders Street or St Stephen Street and navigate to Circus Lane as described above. Total walking time is approximately 20–25 minutes. The route is entirely on paved streets with clear pavements and is suitable for most fitness levels.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services (Uber, local minicabs) can drop you directly on St Stephen Street or Kerr Street adjacent to Circus Lane. Journey time from Edinburgh city centre is typically 8–12 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Estimated fares range from £8–£15 GBP depending on your starting location and time of day. Note that Circus Lane itself is narrow and not suitable for vehicle access beyond residents' parking.
Circus Lane location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Circus Lane
A Georgian Service Lane Transformed
Circus Lane emerged during the second phase of Edinburgh's New Town expansion between 1800 and 1830, when the city's affluent residents sought to escape the crowded Old Town. The lane was deliberately constructed as a service street behind the grand Royal Circus, a sweeping Georgian circle of imposing four- to five-storey manor houses. Wealthy residents of Royal Circus required accommodation for their staff, horses, and carriages, and Circus Lane provided exactly that purpose. The colourful garages visible today are remnants of the original stables where horses were kept and coaches stored. This functional heritage remains visible in the lane's architecture and layout, offering visitors a tangible connection to Edinburgh's Georgian past.Architectural Character and Visual Appeal
Today, Circus Lane's former service cottages have been converted into private residences of considerable charm. The street's defining aesthetic emerges from the interplay of several elements: cobblestone paving, terraced mews houses with distinctive front doors, abundant hanging baskets and window boxes overflowing with flowers and greenery, and Victorian street lamps casting warm light along the lane. The gentle curve of the street creates natural focal points for photography, with St Stephen's Church's 49-metre clocktower rising dramatically above the roofline at the lane's terminus. The combination of these elements—symmetry, colour, scale, and historical authenticity—has earned Circus Lane recognition as one of Britain's most visually pleasing streets, validated by eye-tracking technology studies.St Stephen's Church: A Crowning Monument
At the northern end of Circus Lane stands St Stephen's Church, an A-listed masterpiece designed by renowned architect William Henry Playfair and completed in 1827–1828. The church's distinctive tower rises 49 metres and houses the longest clock pendulum in Europe, a remarkable engineering achievement that has become a defining feature of Edinburgh's skyline. The church no longer functions as a place of worship but has been repurposed as St Stephen's Theatre, a vibrant community arts venue and event space. It serves as home to the Edinburgh Festival Ballet and the MGA Academy, a Scottish theatre school, and hosts performances during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The building's transformation reflects Edinburgh's evolving cultural landscape while preserving its architectural significance.A Photographer's Paradise and Living Community
Circus Lane has become one of Edinburgh's most photographed locations, attracting visitors from around the world seeking to capture its postcard-perfect scenes. The lane's popularity stems from its combination of authentic historical character and contemporary visual appeal. However, visitors should remember that Circus Lane remains a residential street where people live and work. Respectful behaviour is essential—keeping noise levels low, avoiding obstruction of residents' driveways, and being mindful of private property boundaries. The best photographic vantage points include the gentle bend where St Stephen's clocktower frames the composition, and angles that capture the interplay of flowers, cobbles, and terraced facades. Despite its fame, the lane retains an intimate, lived-in quality that distinguishes it from purely touristic attractions.Exploring the Surrounding Neighbourhood
Circus Lane serves as an ideal starting point for exploring Stockbridge and its cultural offerings. The immediate vicinity contains numerous independent cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops reflecting Edinburgh's creative character. Nearby attractions include Dean Village, a historic milling settlement nestled along the Water of Leith with architecture dating to the 1600s, offering a contrasting landscape of green spaces and industrial heritage. The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is within reasonable walking distance, housed in two converted Georgian buildings set within a sculpture park. St Stephen Street, running parallel to Circus Lane, hosts an array of bars and dining establishments popular with locals and visitors alike. This concentration of cultural and culinary attractions makes Circus Lane a natural hub within a broader exploration of Edinburgh's north-central neighbourhoods.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
15 Charlotte Square
0.7 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
The Dean Bridge
0.8 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
0.8 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
Melville Monument
0.9 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.9 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
0.9 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
St Margaret's Chapel
1.1 km
Experience the tranquility of St Margaret's Chapel, the oldest chapel in Edinburgh, nestled within the historic Edinburgh Castle, a spiritual gem for every traveler.
The Mound & Mound Place
1.1 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Waverley Steps
1.1 km
Discover Waverley Steps in Edinburgh, a historic staircase linking the Old and New Towns, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's rich heritage.
Edinburgh Castle
1.1 km
Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland's heritage with stunning views, rich history, and cultural treasures.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
1.1 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
Scottish National War Memorial
1.1 km
Explore the Scottish National War Memorial, a poignant tribute within Edinburgh Castle honoring the valor and sacrifice of Scottish soldiers across history.
John Knox Monument
1.1 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.
The India Cross
1.1 km
Discover The India Cross in Edinburgh, a historical landmark that showcases the city's cultural connections with India amidst stunning surroundings.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stockbridge Market
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant Sunday market offering fresh local produce, street food, crafts, and a lively community atmosphere in charming Stockbridge.
Stockbridge
0.2 km
A charming village atmosphere with Georgian elegance, artisan markets, riverside walks, and cosy cafés just minutes from Edinburgh city centre.
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.
St. Bernard's Well
0.5 km
An exquisite 18th-century Greco-Roman temple over a healing spring, blending classical beauty with Edinburgh’s rich spa heritage.
Sip Antics
0.5 km
Create your own bespoke gin, rum, or agave spirit in Edinburgh’s intimate micro distillery experience at Sip Antics.
The Oxford Bar
0.6 km
Experience the heart of Edinburgh at The Oxford Bar, a historic pub known for its literary connections and welcoming atmosphere.
Edinburgh New Town
0.6 km
Explore Edinburgh New Town, a Georgian-era masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and enlightened urban planning in Scotland’s capital.
Charlotte Square
0.6 km
Charlotte Square: Edinburgh’s elegant Georgian masterpiece, home to historic architecture, tranquil gardens, and Scotland’s First Minister.
The Georgian House
0.7 km
Step back into 18th-century Edinburgh life in this exquisitely restored Georgian townhouse filled with authentic period furnishings and stories.
Assembly Rooms
0.7 km
Timeless Georgian elegance meets vibrant cultural life in Edinburgh’s iconic Assembly Rooms on George Street.
Rose St
0.7 km
A lively, historic pedestrian street in Edinburgh’s New Town, famed for its pubs, boutique shops, and rich literary heritage.
The Dome
0.8 km
Experience the elegance of The Dome in Edinburgh, where exquisite dining, vibrant cocktails, and afternoon tea await in a stunning Georgian setting.
National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait
0.8 km
Discover Scotland’s rich history and culture through captivating portraits in a stunning Neo-Gothic gallery in Edinburgh’s New Town.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
0.8 km
Explore 70 acres of botanical wonder and tranquility just a mile from Edinburgh’s city centre, where science meets stunning natural beauty.
Panoramic view Castle
0.8 km
Discover breathtaking, near eye-level views of Edinburgh Castle framed by historic gardens and vibrant city life at Princes Street.
Essential places to dine
Purslane Restaurant
0.1 km
Intimate basement fine dining where ambitious modern cuisine meets Scottish sourcing and genuine hospitality.
The Table
0.5 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Contini George Street
0.6 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Six by Nico Edinburgh
0.6 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.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.7 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
Badger & Co
0.7 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
BABA
0.7 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Aizle
0.7 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
The Magnum
0.8 km
A cozy yet stylish Edinburgh restaurant blending classic Scottish flavors with creative modern cuisine and a lively bar atmosphere.
Amarone
0.8 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.
Forage & Chatter
0.9 km
Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
0.9 km
Elegant British brasserie with Scottish flair, inventive cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Edinburgh
0.9 km
Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature British dishes and vibrant bar scene in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic St Andrew Square.
Gaucho Edinburgh
0.9 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium Pampas beef and elegant ambiance in Edinburgh’s vibrant city center.
The Pompadour
0.9 km
Experience refined modern Scottish cuisine with stunning Edinburgh Castle views in the elegant setting of 1925 at The Pompadour.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Those Were The Days Vintage
0.1 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
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gem for authentic antiques, vintage furniture, and timeless treasures at Unicorn Antiques on Dundas Street.
Greyfriars Art
0.4 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
CIRCUS Vintage and Curios
0.5 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and curiosities in Edinburgh’s charming Stockbridge at CIRCUS Vintage and Curios.
Scottish Design Exchange
0.6 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
0.7 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Great Scot
0.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
ScotlandShop
0.9 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
One World Shop
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
The Dragonfly
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Curiouser & Curiouser
1.0 km
A design-led independent shop in Edinburgh, filled with art, cards, homewares, and unique gifts with a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
1.1 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.1 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Last Word
0.1 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
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.
Panda & Sons
0.5 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.
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.
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.
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.
Copper Blossom
0.6 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
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.
Never Really Here
0.7 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.7 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
Nightcap
0.8 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.8 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
0.9 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
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s iconic American-style piano bar blending live music and classic cocktails in a lively West End setting.
The Caley Bar
0.9 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
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.
Opal Lounge
0.7 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.7 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.8 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.
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.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.8 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
1.0 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Club Tropicana
1.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
The Liquid Room
1.3 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
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.
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.
Sneaky Pete's
1.4 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
1.5 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
1.5 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Romantic
- Unique
- Quirky
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
