The Heart of Edinburgh: St Andrew Square & George St
Discover the vibrant charm of St Andrew Square & George Street, where historic elegance meets modern flair in the heart of Edinburgh.
St Andrew Square and George Street are vibrant crossroads in Edinburgh, offering a blend of historical charm and modern flair. This bustling area is a must-visit for tourists seeking culture, shopping, and picturesque scenery.
A brief summary to St Andrew Square & George St
- Edinburgh, EH2 2PA, GB
Local tips
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and beautiful lighting for photos.
- Check for local events or festivals happening in the square during your visit for a unique cultural experience.
- Explore the side streets off George Street for hidden gems, including unique shops and cozy cafes.
- Take advantage of public transport options nearby to easily explore other parts of the city.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Stirling city center, head towards St John Street and walk northeast. Continue straight onto Broad Street, then turn left onto King Street. Walk until you reach the Stirling Train Station. From there, take a train to Edinburgh Waverley Station. Upon arrival at Waverley Station, exit and walk towards the east, following the signs for Princes Street. As you approach, turn left onto North Bridge and continue until you reach St Andrew Square.
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Bus
Start at the Stirling Bus Station located on Goosecroft Road. Look for the bus services heading to Edinburgh; Lothian Buses and Stagecoach operate routes to Edinburgh. Purchase a ticket to Edinburgh. After about 45 minutes, you will arrive at the bus station in Edinburgh. From there, walk east on St Andrew Square until you reach St Andrew Square & George St.
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Train
Begin your journey at Stirling Train Station. Purchase a ticket to Edinburgh Waverley Station. Trains run frequently, so check the schedule for the next departure. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive at Waverley Station, exit and follow signs toward Princes Street, then turn left on North Bridge until you reach St Andrew Square.
Discover more about St Andrew Square & George St
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
0.0 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
0.1 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
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.
Statue of King George Ⅳ
0.2 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
0.3 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Centre of Edinburgh
0.4 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
North Bridge
0.4 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.4 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Lady Stair's Close
0.5 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.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.5 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
0.5 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
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.
David Hume Statue
0.5 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
JK Rowling’s Handprints
0.5 km
Discover the iconic handprints of J.K. Rowling at the City Chambers in Edinburgh, a magical tribute for Harry Potter fans and literature lovers alike.
Gladstone's Land
0.5 km
Explore the historic charm of Gladstone's Land in Edinburgh, a captivating glimpse into Scotland's rich past with delightful cafes and stunning architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Andrew Square
0.1 km
Elegant Georgian square in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending historic grandeur, lush gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant urban life.
The Dome
0.1 km
Experience the elegance of The Dome in Edinburgh, where exquisite dining, vibrant cocktails, and afternoon tea await in a stunning Georgian setting.
Edinburgh Bus Tours
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh's rich history and stunning landscapes with convenient and informative bus tours, perfect for every traveler.
Roxy Lanes Edinburgh Rose Street
0.1 km
A vibrant city centre hotspot offering bowling, games, American-style eats, and lively entertainment on Edinburgh’s Rose Street.
National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait
0.2 km
Discover Scotland’s rich history and culture through captivating portraits in a stunning Neo-Gothic gallery in Edinburgh’s New Town.
Scott Monument
0.2 km
Discover the stunning Scott Monument in Edinburgh's Princes Street Gardens, a Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott with breathtaking city views.
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.
Cask
0.2 km
A lively Princes Street rooftop bar with panoramic Old Town views, Peruvian small plates and cosy heated domes for intimate cityside nights.
Multrees Walk
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s luxury shopping street, home to Scotland’s only Harvey Nichols, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and more in a stylish pedestrian precinct.
Waverley Market
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s central shopping destination blending historic charm with vibrant retail and dining experiences year-round.
East Princes Street Gardens
0.3 km
A historic and vibrant green oasis in Edinburgh’s heart, offering iconic views, rich heritage, and festive events year-round.
Edinburgh New Town
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh New Town, a Georgian-era masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and enlightened urban planning in Scotland’s capital.
Waverley Steps
0.3 km
Waverley Steps: A modern, accessible gateway blending historic charm with panoramic views in Edinburgh’s city center.
The Royal Scottish Academy
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s premier artist-led institution showcasing fine art and architecture in a historic Edinburgh landmark.
Assembly Rooms
0.3 km
Timeless Georgian elegance meets vibrant cultural life in Edinburgh’s iconic Assembly Rooms on George Street.
Essential places to dine
Amarone
0.0 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.
The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
0.1 km
Elegant British brasserie with Scottish flair, inventive cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Edinburgh
0.1 km
Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature British dishes and vibrant bar scene in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic St Andrew Square.
Gaucho Edinburgh
0.1 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium Pampas beef and elegant ambiance in Edinburgh’s vibrant city center.
Dishoom Edinburgh
0.1 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.
Lady Libertine
0.2 km
A chic Edinburgh hotspot blending inventive cocktails, Mediterranean mezze, and art deco vibes across two stylish floors.
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.
Tattu Edinburgh
0.2 km
Experience modern Chinese cuisine in a stunning setting blending Edinburgh’s historic charm with contemporary elegance.
Six by Nico Edinburgh
0.2 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.
Twenty Princes Street
0.2 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
Number One
0.3 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
The Magnum
0.3 km
A cozy yet stylish Edinburgh restaurant blending classic Scottish flavors with creative modern cuisine and a lively bar atmosphere.
The Table
0.4 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Duck & Waffle
0.4 km
A playful modern British restaurant in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, famed for its signature duck and waffle and vibrant, Instagrammable atmosphere.
The Botanist Edinburgh
0.4 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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Great Scot
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.2 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.2 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
Anime Republic
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant anime gift shop and community hub offering collectibles, manga, and events for fans of all levels.
Pure Scottish
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Greyfriars Art
0.4 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
Eden
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
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.
I Love Scotland
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at I Love Scotland, a welcoming shop in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic center.
Heritage of Scotland
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Olde Edinburgh
0.5 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
House of Scotland
0.5 km
Explore authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at the House of Scotland, located on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Grand Cru
0.2 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.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.2 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Nightcap
0.2 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.2 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Bramble Bar
0.2 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
Thistle Street Bar
0.3 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
The Alchemist
0.3 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 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.
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.
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.
The Street
0.5 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 Jolly Judge
0.5 km
A cozy, historic Scottish pub nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for malt whiskies, real ales, and timeless hospitality just minutes from the Castle.
Never Really Here
0.6 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
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.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Why Not Nightclub
0.1 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.1 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.3 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.5 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
The Liquid Room
0.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.7 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Sneaky Pete's
0.7 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
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.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.7 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
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
0.7 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
