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Edinburgh City Guide: Shopping areas

By BzHeriotWatt 01 Feb 2022

Everyone loves a shopping spree once in a while (maybe some of us too much!) and Edinburgh has a wealth of shops to help you to find what you need quickly and hassle-free.

There are various shopping areas on your doorstep, so you can spend more time splashing the cash and less time travelling. Find out where you can shop 'til you drop below!

Princes Street

The high-street in Edinburgh is truly unique, with all the shops only lining one side of the street and the castle towering over it. If you're looking for a new outfit then you'll be in the right place here, as it's the home to many flagship department stores and fashion retailers. There isn't a lack of choice for food outlets either for a quick bite to eat mid-shop.

Grassmarket and Victoria Street

Victoria Street is well-known for its colourful shops and is thought to be the inspiration behind Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books. Around Grassmarket and Victoria Street you'll find lots of independent outlets as well as some designers and local artists selling arts, crafts and antiques. The al fresco dining scene is quite popular here too, so why not grab something to eat in the sun?

Stockbridge

To the north of the city centre is Stockbridge, a quirky neighbourhood that has lots of boutique and vintage shops for you to find a gem you won't find anywhere else. There's a wide range of delicious delis, including a specialist cheese shop! Every Sunday the Stockbridge Market takes place between 10am - 4pm with locals flocking to the market stalls for crafts, jewellery, freshly-made food and lots more. Stockbridge is definitely a cool place to visit whilst you're in Edinburgh! 

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is located in the capital's Old Town and is a favourite for gifts and souvenirs. There are plenty of choices which stock traditional Scottish presents such as whisky, shortbread and clothes which are perfect to bring back for the family over Christmas. If you need some tartan for some specific events or fancy dress, you'll find it here!

West End

The West End is just a stone's throw away from Princes Street. Along these charming cobbled streets you'll find a mix of upmarket fashion boutiques, flower and plant shops, organic food retailers, delis and gift shops. William Street has a handful of galleries and designer fashion and jewellery boutiques. Looking for a card but bored of the same old stuff you get in supermarkets? Paper Tiger will stock the weird and wonderful for all occasions.