No trip to Edinburgh would be complete without buying a few bits and pieces from some of Edinburgh’s fantastic shops. Whilst the city does not have as big a range of stores as it sibling city Glasgow, it has really upped the ante in the last few years and now offers a good range of luxury shops (and hotels) as well as individual boutiques. So why not make a day of it and indulge in some retail therapy on your visit to the capital.
George Street
George street runs parallel to Princes Street in the New Town, but where the busy main street features all the top high street names, George street is the more refined and sophisticated neighbour. Lined with famous luxury names in fashion, apparel and cosmetics, you can easily spend a few hours here and empty your bank account in the process. Head to Penhaligons or Jo Malone to create your perfect bespoke scent, pop into Space N.K for a couple of beauty must-haves, peruse the designer menswear at Cruise Clothing, pick up the perfect evening dress at Whistles, before grabbing that perfect scented candle and floral butter dish at Anthropologie. For your mid morning caffeine fix we recommend Burr & Co and why not finish your shopping spree off with a couple of fabulous cocktails at Tigerlily afterwards?
Princes Street
Edinburgh’s second most famous street after the Royal Mile, and definitely the busiest! What other street in the world has a castle for a backdrop? Princes Street has a range of shops for all budgets, and features the best of the British high street from national institution Marks & Spencer, to hipster heaven Urban Outfitters. For something unique to the city however, head to Edinburgh’s famous department store Jenners (part of the House of Frasers group). Not only is the building beautiful from the outside, but the main hall is a lovely multi-levelled space packed full of the best high end clothing brands. This place definitely isn’t to be missed at Christmas when they install a massive tree in the middle of the building which towers up past multiple floors!
Multrees Walk
This compact pedestrian shopping area off St Andrew Square offers the best of the best in luxury shopping. Have a look in Hugo Boss, Burberry or buy a new bag or two in Louis Vuitton. If you want to give your wallet a really good workout then Harvey Nichols is a must! Set over four floors and packed with designer goods from handbags and leather jackets, to perfume and watches. After having your fill of designer shopping on Multrees Walk an old favourite John Lewis is just a short detour from here.
The West End
Potentially Edinburgh’s best kept secret, the West End is a must visit to sample the best in the city’s fashion and culinary scenes. Take a gentle wander along the quaint cobbled streets and explore some absolute gems of independent retailers. Shop for the best in his and hers contemporary independent brands and Frontiers boutique, and Frontiers man just around the corner from each other. Check out Odyssey boutique the city centre’s only independent lingerie and swimwear boutique – you won’t get a better fitting service than here. Finally for something truly unique, check out Denzil Skinner & Partners for the best in bespoke and personalised jewellery creation.
