Visit Victoria Street Edinburgh

30 November 2022|Read time 2 mins

Just off George IV Bridge and tucked away behind the High Street is the charming Victoria Street.

One of the most atmospheric streets in Edinburgh (not a city short of such things), Victoria Street feels like it belongs in a Harry Potter movie. 

So no coincidence, then, that JK Rowling penned the first Potter novel just around the corner, in the now famous Elephant House cafe. Victoria Street's cobbles, its steep hill and medieval tenements create an aura of magic.

Visit Victoria Street in Edinburgh

With a gentle curve over multiple layers of cobbled walkways and coloured shopfronts, this picture-postcard street is a stunning historic part of Edinburgh city centre. 

We love this part of Edinburgh, and we're not alone. Take time to absorb the architectural beauty of this street, and look up at the ancient stone facades and arches that tower above.

Constructed in 1829-34 during wider renovations in the city, Victoria Street is a unique space in Edinburgh's Old Town.

Restaurants on Victoria Street

You won't go hungry on Victoria Street. With a number of excellent restaurants open for lunch and dinner, you're certain to find food that delights your tastebuds. 

Among the many restaurants on Victoria Street are Howies and Maison Bleue. Howies has two restaurants in Edinburgh, and is a much loved, family owned, Scottish restaurant serving fresh, seasonal food cooked to order. 

Maison Bleue restaurant offers French, North African and traditional Scottish cuisine using cooking skills from each of these regions.

The Grain Store is another popular eatery, with a creative menu of fresh local Scottish produce, served in a vaulted and alcoved former storeroom.

Just across the way, in Johnston Terrace, is Maxie's Bistro, offering both Scottish and international dishes, as well as great views of Edinburgh.

Quench your thirst on Victoria Street

You'll not have to walk far to find a bar in Victoria Street, from no frills at the Bow Bar, winner of Craft Beer Bar of the year in 2022, to the spacious Irish-themed bar with live bands and sports screenings at Finnegan's Wake.

Healthy juices are also on offer at Hula Juice Bar & Healthy Eatery, which opened in 2007 as Edinburgh's first juice bar.

Enjoy healthy food and drink during a busy day of sightseeing and nourish your body!

This really is a street with something for everyone.

Independent spirit of Victoria Street

Victoria Street has retained its independent spirit over the intervening years. 

It remains home to a densely-packed range of one-off eateries.

It is a treasure trove of the unusual - a second-hand bookshop, wool merchant and shops selling clothes for the tall and outsized. 

You can buy whacky kitchen equipment and freshly ground coffee. 

And for Harry Potter lovers amongst you, this street inspired scenes from the series, with the Museum Context store offering the opportunity to lose yourself in Harry Potter memories.

Whether it's a replica wand, jumper or book you are looking for, you will soon be immersed in the wizarding world.

Independent stores on Victoria Street

You will find none of the familiar coffee shops or restaurant chains here (unless you count neighbouring Pizza Express, on the corner of George IV Bridge). 

This area of Edinburgh is a haven for all of us who value something different and is a great spot for finding a special gift to buy for loved ones back home.

Visit Victoria Street, Edinburgh

Make sure to take a walk down Victoria Street during your self-catering break in Edinburgh.

It is a fascinating place and you might just find a purchase or two along the way!