Princes Street in Edinburgh

What are the highlights and features of Princes Street?

For the non-shopaholic traveler, Princes Street’s appeal lies in its spectacular setting and historical monuments. Edinburgh is one of the most picturesque major cities in the UK, and Princes Street is fundamental to its aesthetic appeal. While most main streets feature stores on both sides, the gorgeous Princes Street Gardens line the southern edge to make this retail strip unique.

The gardens were created in 1820 after draining the Nor Loch lake, which was formerly used to defend the castle from foes. These days, the lush 37-acre expanse separates the Old Town from the New City and serves as the ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.

On the gardens’ western edge, the Ross Fountain is a spectacular sight to behold and a popular meeting point for locals. The stunning cast-iron structure was installed in 1872 after being showcased in the Great Exhibition of London. Opposite the fountain lies the imposing Parish Church of St Cuthbert, a late Victorian-era building famed for its byzantine fittings and spectacular stained-glass windows.

Another striking building on Princes Street is the elegant 5-star Balmoral Hotel at the eastern end of the street, built to accommodate well-heeled railroad passengers. Next door, Waverley Station is the capital’s historic main train station, complete with its own bustling retail space and a tremendous glistening glass roof.

Shopping, eating and drinking on Princes Street

Princes Street is so much more than a historical monument – it’s a modern space to eat, shop, and be merry.

The most notable retail space is the Jenners department store, a majestic Renaissance-style building that stocks a smorgasbord of high-end goods. If it’s style and fashion you’re after, typical high-street brands like Topman, Topshop, Swarovski, Zara, Marks & Spencer, and Boots lie peppered around the strip. And for the budget shopper, downmarket chains like Poundland, Bargain Books, and Primark are on offer as well.

As for dining options, Waverley Mall connects to the train station and houses several stores plus your usual array of fast-food outlets. On Princes Street itself, Sir Walter Scott Tea Room does elegant traditional fare, while Costa Coffee is your best bet for espressos.

What are good things to know about Princes Street?

Princes Street stretches for under a mile from Lothian Road to Leith Street, officially separating the Old Town from the New City. Much of the street is limited to buses, taxi cabs, and streetcars – private vehicle traffic is only permitted on the eastern end to reduce congestion.

Waverley Station provides easy access to streetcars around the city and long-distance trains, while many of Edinburgh’s bus routes pass through the strip.

Visiting during the winter? The Princes Street Gardens host a magical Christmas market complete with seasonal stalls and a family-friendly ice skating rink.