New Town
NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE

New Town

Historic Georgian elegance meets modern Edinburgh sophistication

Edinburgh's New Town isn't actually new — it's been around since the 1760s. But here's the thing: this UNESCO World Heritage site still feels fresh, especially when sunlight hits those honey-colored Georgian facades along George Street. You're looking at one of Europe's finest examples of city planning, where wide boulevards and garden squares create breathing room that Old Town simply can't match. The contrast is striking — cross Princes Street from the medieval chaos below, and suddenly you're in a world of symmetry and space. Sure, it's touristy. Yes, Princes Street can feel like every other high street in Britain. But venture onto the parallel streets — George Street for dining, Rose Street for drinking, Queen Street for quiet elegance — and you'll understand why locals still choose to live here despite the price tags.

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George Street puts you in the heart of everything — restaurants, bars, and that perfect view down to the Firth of Forth. The Scotsman Hotel on North Bridge gives you New Town access with Old Town views, though you'll pay for the privilege. Look, if budget matters, try the streets around Hanover Street or Frederick Street. You're still central but away from the Princes Street crowds. The area around Charlotte Square feels more residential — quieter at night but you're walking 10 minutes to most restaurants. Avoid staying directly on Princes Street unless you enjoy the sound of buses at 6am. The side streets between George and Queen Street offer the best of both worlds: Georgian elegance without the tourist foot traffic.

Money-Saving Tips

  • 1.Many New Town restaurants offer pre-theater menus before 7pm - same kitchen, smaller portions, better prices
  • 2.The National Gallery of Scotland on The Mound offers free admission to permanent collections
  • 3.Rose Street pubs often have happy hour deals 4-6pm, especially Monday through Wednesday
  • 4.Walking tours of New Town architecture run free from the City Chambers - tip-based
  • 5.Princes Street Gardens hosts free concerts during summer months, check the council website
  • 6.Many George Street restaurants participate in Edinburgh Restaurant Week twice yearly with fixed-price menus
  • 7.The Scott Monument charges £8 to climb but the views from Calton Hill are free and arguably better
  • 8.Tesco Metro on Princes Street sells meal deals cheaper than most New Town cafes for quick lunches

Travel Tips

  • •Book restaurants on George Street well ahead - many don't take walk-ins, especially weekends
  • •The wind tunnel effect on Princes Street is real - bring a jacket even on sunny days
  • •Most New Town shops open late (10am) and close early (6pm) compared to other UK cities
  • •Edinburgh's address system uses 'EH' postcodes - New Town is mostly EH1 and EH2
  • •The closes connecting New Town to Old Town get slippery when wet - watch your step
  • •Free WiFi available in most Princes Street shops and all major hotels
  • •Edinburgh Festival in August books up accommodation a year ahead - seriously
  • •The one-way system around New Town confuses even locals - walking is usually faster than driving

Frequently Asked Questions

No - Edinburgh's New Town dates from the 1760s, making it over 250 years old. It's called 'New' to distinguish it from the medieval Old Town across Princes Street. The Georgian architecture and planned street layout were revolutionary for their time.

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