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Top 13 Must-Visit Shopping Areas in Edinburgh to Fill up Your Bags!
There was this one Saturday where I thought I’d be smart and hit the shops early and beat the crowd, you know? Well, as I’m power-walking down Princes Street, I spot this “incredible sale.”
Naturally, I make a beeline for the door, only to walk smack into what must’ve been a landing party of other eager shoppers. Believe me, I’d never been so close to achieving warp speed trying to back out of there—and have learned a lesson since then.
We don’t want that to happen to you, eh? After all, Edinburgh is more than just its castle and bagpipes, and YES, it has a lot of good shopping areas. I’m sharing my favorite ones with you!
Princes Street
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Running alongside the Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street is the place everyone heads to for a mix of high-street brands and boutique finds. Here, you get everything from massive stores like Primark and Marks & Spencer to tech giants like the Apple Store.
Even though it’s a bustling area, the street offers some great spots for a quick coffee or bite to eat. Chains like Starbucks and Pret are all dotted along the way, so it’s super convenient for a shopping break.
Moreover, you’ll find big fashion chains such as H&M, Zara, and Topshop. And hey, the view of the Scott Monument and Castle is something else while you’re hopping from store to store.
Pro tip:
Make sure to explore some of the side streets and alleys branching off Princes Street. They often hide gems, from unique little boutiques to quaint cafes that you won’t find on the main drag.
George Street
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George Street is full of chic boutiques, high-end brands, and some fantastic dining options. You’ll find stores like Anthropologie, Oliver Bonas, and White Stuff all vying for your attention.
If you’re into accessories, you can check out pretty cool jewelers like Rox and Hamilton & Inches. And hey, the street itself is a little easier to navigate compared to others, mainly because it’s more spacious and less chaotic.
Places like The Dome and Le Monde are almost landmarks in themselves with their fantastic menus and historical settings. And don’t forget the cool bars like Tigerlily and Copper Blossom—perfect places to unwind after an indulgent shopping spree.
Pro tip:
Make sure you give George Street a visit in the evenings; it often hosts seasonal events and festivals, especially during the Fringe Festival or Christmas markets. Plus, the street lights up beautifully, adding a different charm to your shopping experience.
The Royal Mile
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The Royal Mile stretches from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace and is packed with shops specializing in Scottish souvenirs. We’re talking Highland dress shops, whiskey stores like The Scotch Whisky Experience, and incredible handmade crafts.
And don’t miss those charming little gift shops where you can find tartan everything, from scarves to home décor items. Besides trinkets and gifts, there’s a lovely selection of stores for clothing too.
Shops like Ness Clothing offer some really stylish takes on traditional Scottish fashion. Foodies will enjoy the array of local delicacies available, especially all those cute little cafes and restaurants scattered along the street.
Pro tip:
Remember to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak times. It can get quite crowded with tourists, especially during the summer months.
Edinburgh Farmers’ Market
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Website: http://www.edinburghfarmersmarket.co.uk/
Address: NCP Castle Terrace Car Park
Contact details:
Operating hours: Saturday – 9 AM to 2 PM
Situated in the NCP Castle Terrace Car Park, Edinburgh Farmers’ Market is a Saturday morning must. The market hosts a variety of stalls showcasing the best from local farmers and producers—think vegetables, organic meats, and heavenly baked goods.
It’s not just for grocery shopping, either. There are plenty of stalls for unique crafts and artisan products, making it a great place to pick up unique gifts or souvenirs.
You can also find handmade soaps, local cheeses, and even some stunning jewelry. For those who fancy a bite while wandering through, there’s usually a range of hot food stands offering everything from gourmet street food to traditional Scottish fare.
Pro tip:
It’s recommended to arrive early here. The best produce and goods sell out quickly.
Also, make sure you bring cash. While some vendors do accept cards, it’s always smoother with cash.
Grassmarket
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Grassmarket is cradled at the heart of the Old Town and just a short walk from the famous Victoria Street, another shopping gem. What really makes it cool for shopping is its diverse mix of independent shops, vintage boutiques, and specialty stores.
You’ll run into quirky bookstores and clothing stores such as Armstrongs Vintage Emporium, where you can get vintage fashion fix. Grassmarket also has a good range of places to grab a bite, like The Pie Maker or some chocolates from Mary’s Milk Bar.
The area also boasts some of the best pubs in Edinburgh, with the White Hart Inn being particularly famous and the oldest.
Pro tip:
Be on the lookout for the Grassmarket’s weekend markets. They sometimes mix it up with food stalls, local crafts, and live music—perfect for picking up something unique while enjoying the local vibes.
Bruntsfield Pl & Morningside Road
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Bruntsfield and Morningside Road are popularly known for their line-up of indie shops that you wouldn’t find in big shopping malls. From lovely boutiques like Odds & Ends that sell home decor to bookstores like Edinburgh Bookshop, this place has it all.
You’re also not far from a range of cafes and eateries that offer delightful breaks during your shopping spree. For instance, you can pop by Project Coffee or Montpeliers, which are both local favorites.
There are also specialty food shops, like Real Foods, where you can stock up on organic and health-focused goodies. If you fancy a bit of retail therapy, you can hit up Soup Dragon, known for its fantastic range of children’s clothes and toys.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to look out for seasonal sales and events. Bruntsfield and Morningside often host pop-up shops and community fairs, perfect times to snag some fantastic deals and unique finds.
Multrees Walk
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Website: http://www.multreeswalk.co.uk/
Address: Multrees Walk
Contact details: +44 131 557 0050
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
If you’re in the mood for some high-end shopping, Multrees Walk is home to some of the biggest names in fashion and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to splurge at Harvey Nichols or check out the latest collections at Louis Vuitton, Multrees Walk has it.
The beauty of Multrees Walk is also in its convenience. After an afternoon of heavy shopping, you can grab a bite at some sophisticated dining spots like the Brasserie at Harvey Nichols or treat yourself to some delightful pastries at the nearby patisserie.
And if you’re into beauty and cosmetics, the walk offers various stores, from Space NK to Jo Malone, guaranteeing you find those exclusive products.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the sales periods, especially after New Year’s and during the summer. High-end brands often offer hefty discounts that make luxury shopping a bit easier on the wallet.
St James Quarter
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Website: https://stjamesquarter.com/
Address: St James Cres
Contact details: +44 131 290 1118
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 8 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
St. James’s Quarter is the new kid on the block, but it’s quickly making a name for itself as Edinburgh’s prime shopping destination. Here, you have stores like Zara, H&M, and JD Sports mingling with premium outlets like & Other Stories and John Lewis.
After some serious retail therapy, you can wind down with a bite at urban eateries like the Bonnie & Wild marketplace, which offers a fantastic selection of local and international cuisines.
You shouldn’t miss the expansive Everyman Cinema for some downtime. Aside from that, they also have a LEGO store for kids (and kids at heart) and an exciting seasonal ice rink during the winter.
Pro tip:
Remember to download the St. James Quarter app before you go. It has all the insider info on ongoing sales, store locations, and even special events you might want to catch.
OMNi Centre
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Website: https://omniedinburgh.co.uk/
Address: Greenside Row
Contact details: +44 131 524 7770
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 1 AM
OMNi Centre is truly a gem when it comes to shopping in Edinburgh. For a start, H&M and Zara are great spots for picking up an on-trend wardrobe, while JD Sports has got you covered for all things sporty.
There’s even a Vue Cinema if you need a break from all that retail therapy. Moreover, you can grab a bite at some popular spots like Cosmo or Frankie & Benny’s, where you can enjoy some American-Italian cuisine.
If you’re in the mood for something quick, there’s always Nando’s for some spicy peri-peri chicken. For those who appreciate a good cocktail, Bar Soba won’t disappoint.
Pro tip:
Parking can be a bit tricky during peak times, so consider using public transport. The center is just a short walk from the Edinburgh Waverley train station.
Fort Kinnaird
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Website: https://www.fortkinnaird.com/
Address: 32, Fleming House, Newcraighall
Contact details: +44 131 669 9090
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM
Fort Kinnaird is a shopper’s paradise sprawled over a large area with a great mix of stores. Big names like M&S, Next, and Primark are here for all your fashion needs.
There’s also a large Boots and Superdrug for all your health and beauty necessities. When hunger strikes, Fort Kinnaird doesn’t fall short on dining options either.
Plus, there’s a Tenpin bowling alley for a bit of entertainment after all that shopping. Oh, and a fitness gym if you’re in the mood to burn off some calories!
Pro tip:
Try to visit during the weekdays if you can; weekends can get super busy. And if you’re driving, there’s plenty of free parking available, which is always a plus.
Craigleith Retail Park
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Address: S Groathill Ave
Contact details: +44 131 343 1144
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
Craigleith Retail Park is the place to be if you prefer convenience and a wide selection in one place. Here, you can swing by the massive Sainsbury’s for your grocery shopping or find some great deals at TK Maxx.
There are also stores like M&S and Argos for everyday essentials. There might not be a ton of dining options within the park itself, but since it’s close enough to other local eateries, that’s not a problem.
Nevertheless, you’ve got Starbucks on-site for a quick caffeine fix or a light snack.
Pro tip:
Make sure you keep an eye out for seasonal sales and special promotions that Craigleith Retail Park frequently runs, giving you the chance to snag some incredible deals.
Waverley Market
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Website: https://waverleymarketedin.com/
Address: 3/48 Waverley Bridge
Contact details: +44 131 557 3759
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 7 PM
Waverley Market is home to some familiar favorites like New Look, Superdry, and Body Shop. If you’re into books, there’s a book called Waterstones that’s worth spending some time in.
Plus, there’s a bunch of little kiosks and stands where you can find everything from Scottish souvenirs to handcrafted jewelry. The dining options are diverse and cater to different tastes.
You have the likes of Pret A Manger for sandwiches and salads and McDonald’s for a quick and easy meal.
Pro tip:
Since it’s smack in the city center, it can get pretty packed, especially during the tourist season. Try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to beat the crowd.
Ocean Terminal
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Website: https://www.oceanterminal.com/
Address: 74 Ocean Dr, Leith
Contact details: +44 131 555 8888
Operating hours:
- Monday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Tuesday to Friday – 10 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 6 PM
Ocean Terminal is an excellent venue for a relaxed shopping experience with a great view of the waterfront. Stores like Debenhams, H&M, and New Look are perfect if you’re looking to update your wardrobe.
There are also some cool shops, like White Stuff and Fat Face, if you’re after something a bit different. Dining at Ocean Terminal is a treat, with places like Pizza Express, Wagamama, and Zizzi offering plenty of choices.
If you need to unwind after shopping, you can always catch a movie at the Vue Cinema here or even visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, which is berthed right beside the terminal.
Pro tip:
On weekdays, you might catch some quiet time and even better deals. Plus, the views of the docked yachts are spectacular, so make sure to bring your camera.
