St James Quarter is a great start if you’re after luxury brands or just everyday finds. With everything from high-end fashion names like Coach and Polo Ralph Lauren to popular high-street stores like Zara, H&M, and Other Stories, it makes sense why it’s a go-to for shoppers.

It’s fun to take a break from shopping and have some fun. They offer day and night entertainment, from blockbuster cinema to bowling and darts.

You can also have a nice meal or snack at Bonnie & Wild, the food hall. There, you can expect to see all sorts of cuisine, such as Hong Kong street food and gourmet burgers.

Just a heads-up, though: their parking fees are a bit on the higher side. Let’s say you made a four-hour shopping and mall trip; that’ll easily creep up to over £18—you could imagine how much you’ll have to spend if you stay any time longer.

Luckily, St James Quarter sits at a good location, which means it’s easily accessible via public transportation—and it’s cheaper too.

Well laid out

“A vast array of shops and restaurants. Well laid out, clean and tidy with plenty of bins and recycling points too. Underground parking is handy for those who can’t travel by foot or public transport. Something here for everyone. Highly recommend.”

Mark Sutton, Google Review

Great place to shop

“Great place to shop. It’s a mall but open air so to get warm you have to go inside the shops. Lots of eateries here and even halal friendly ones.”

Zul M, Google Review

Ocean Terminal doesn’t disappoint and stays true to its name, considering that it offers shoppers and visitors stunning views of the Firth of Forth. The shopping experience doubles as sort of a tourist attraction thanks to the serene backdrop it features.

This mall houses over 70 stores, including well-known brands like Boots and H&M, so you’re bound to find what you’re looking for. We also love that beyond shopping, you can explore their 12-screen Vue Cinema and their onsite PureGym—perfect for both errands and entertainment.

It’s also worth noting that the Royal Yacht Britannia is permanently docked next to the Ocean Terminal, giving visitors easy access to step on board. You can directly get there from the shopping centre, adding a nice historical agenda to your day.

On the other hand, some visitors did feel a bit bummed after seeing empty or vacant retail units since it takes away the overall vibe of the place. Still, we can’t deny that Ocean Terminal brings something new to the whole shopping experience.

Good food options

“Amazing museum,  good food options. Building in process,  but still a nice place to visit! Free parking! Awesome!”

Micaela Rios, Google Review

Nice place to visit 

“Nice place to visit, you can enjoy shopping, eating and drinking, also you get an access to have a tour inside the Britannia Yacht after buying your ticket”

Naj abdullattif, Google Review

What we like most about Livingston Designer Outlet is their Hands-Free Shopping, so you can shop without lugging around bags. Your purchases are either held at Guest Services or delivered straight to your car, eliminating the hassle of shopping—quite handy for something hands-free.

On that note, with this perk, you can easily explore their extensive brand selection—over 80 premium brands, including fashion icons like Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger. They also have athletic labels like Nike, Adidas, and Puma.

Their dining and entertainment options are also diverse. There are many restaurants and cafes, a multi-screen cinema, and even a two-course golf experience out on the first floor of the Designer Outlet, which means it’s a place where you can hang out with friends without getting bored.

The downside? We heard about parking troubles. Some visitors mentioned getting mistakenly fined, or not recognized as having a disabled pass, which put a damper on their experience.

Regardless, the Livingston Designer Outlet is worth considering, especially if you want to shop a lot without getting tired of carrying your bags.

Received amazing service

“Had the best time, spent lots of money. Received amazing service. One store in particular really stood out on service and that was the dark haired lady in the Lacoste shop. So helpful. A fantastic day out. Oh and 50p an hour for parking. Can’t really complain at all”

Dawn Smith, Google Review

Amazing place to shop

“Shopping and shopping. Whether you are a shopping geek or a casual roamer, it’s an amazing place to shop . Most of the major brands are present with good collection and offers”

Saurabh Gupta, Google Review

Fort Kinnaird has an impressive mix of retailers, from familiar high-street names like Marks & Spencer, Next, and TK Maxx to speciality stores covering electronics and home essentials. This means you could shop and do other errands in one place.

We also love that there are a lot of places to eat, whether you’re just after a quick bite or a sit-down meal. With their selection of restaurants, cafes, and food outlets, you’re bound to see one that fits your taste and dietary preferences. 

Another neat thing about them is their promotions and special events, which often offer great bargains and exclusive deals. 

However, you need to keep in mind that this isn’t your typical compact, indoor shopping experience since this is an open-air retail park that requires you to walk a bit more from store to store. This also means you should check the weather before going to avoid rainy days.

Nonetheless, Fort Kinnaird is a solid pick for an all-around shopping spree for clothes, footwear, accessories, electronics, etc., and a good meal, too.

Great shopping area

“Good shopping area plenty of parking but very busy with cars at weekends. Noise to Tale

Lots of stores primark. Next.M &S. Curry’s. Argos. Sketchers. Shuh. Mountain warehouse.  JDsports . Boots. Fatface. Sports Direct. Waterstones.  And much more”

bob “Florida bob” peter, Google Review

Great place to shop and spend the day

“Great place to shop and spend the day – weather permitting. Plenty of options for from luxury items to big bargains and restaurants. Ample parking as well.”

Toushar Chakrabarty, Google Review

One of the main highlights about Waverley Market is that it’s adjacent to Edinburgh Waverley Station, making it incredibly convenient—especially if you commute or would rather not bring your car.

We have to give props to this place for maintaining its facilities. From what we’ve seen and heard from visitors, common areas and restrooms are well-kept and clean, which is a huge plus in our books.

And given that it’s built underground, Waverley Market gives off a different feel and indoor shopping experience. On top of that, your shopping won’t get interrupted by Edinburgh’s unpredictable weather.

The drawback? Some visitors might feel disappointed by their dining options—you might find it lacking if you’re looking for something more unique or upscale. The empty shops in the market also make the experience a bit lacklustre.

But overall, Waverley Market does the job of being a convenient and accessible shopping centre, making it a reliable option.

Lots of interesting shops 

“Lots of interesting shops here especially the new Scandi shop. Great range of gifts and craft materials. All the usual coffee shops and eateries. But the place has a buzz and feels welcoming.”

Sue Nicol, Google Review

A clean space all around

“A clean space all round. The public toilets are mantained clean. Eateries and convenience stores provide options. Good experience.”

lanreat, Google Review