Historic market square beneath Edinburgh Castle hosting regular farmers' markets, artisan craft fairs, and seasonal festivals. Surrounded by independent restaurants and pubs.
Edinburgh's Grassmarket is one of Scotland's most historically significant public squares, set directly beneath the cliff face of Edinburgh Castle in the city's Old Town. The open cobblestone square, centered on EH1 2JR, has served as a commercial hub since the 15th century — originally a livestock market and later a public execution site, today it hosts rotating weekend markets, artisan craft fairs, and seasonal outdoor events throughout the year.
The Grassmarket markets feature a mixture of Scottish craft goods, locally sourced food products, handmade jewellery, knitwear, and seasonal produce. The weekly and monthly markets that occupy the square bring together independent Scottish producers and artisans who make the goods they sell, which distinguishes the Grassmarket from tourist-trinket street fairs. The range of goods differs considerably from generic shopping: visitors find hand-spun wool scarves, single-malt whisky accessories, Scottish pottery, silver jewellery set with Scottish gemstones, and artisan jams, chutneys, and baked goods made to local recipes.
Bargaining is not customary at the Grassmarket's craft and food markets — prices are typically set and reflect the artisan production cost. Card payments are widely accepted at modern stalls, while older traders may prefer cash. There is no UK tourist VAT refund scheme for market goods.
The atmosphere of the Grassmarket is deeply distinctive. The imposing Edinburgh Castle visible above and the surrounding 17th-century closes create one of Scotland's most picturesque settings for a market visit. The surrounding streets are lined with independent restaurants, traditional Scottish pubs including the historic White Hart Inn, and small shops selling Scottish gifts and local produce. The area is liveliest in summer and during Edinburgh's Fringe Festival in August. Seasonal Christmas markets transform the square in December, when stalls selling mulled wine, Scottish tablet, and handmade gifts attract significant visitor numbers.
Highlights
- Historic cobblestone square beneath Edinburgh Castle hosting Scottish artisan markets and craft fairs throughout the year
- Authentic Scottish craft goods including hand-spun knitwear, silver jewellery set with Scottish gemstones, and locally made pottery
- Artisan food stalls offering whisky accessories, Scottish jams, chutneys, and traditional baked goods
- Festive Christmas market with mulled wine, Scottish tablet, and handmade gifts transforms the square in December
- Surrounding independent pubs including the historic White Hart Inn and restaurants serving Scottish cuisine
Tips for visiting
- Check the Edinburgh City Council events calendar for exact market dates before visiting — markets are not held every weekend
- The Grassmarket is busiest during August's Edinburgh Fringe Festival; accommodation and access in the Old Town becomes significantly more crowded
- Wear comfortable flat shoes — the cobblestones can be uneven and difficult to navigate in heels or with wheeled luggage
- Surrounding pubs and cafés offer warm shelter on cold or rainy Edinburgh days, making the Grassmarket a viable wet-weather visit
- Early Saturday morning arrivals have the best access to fresh produce and artisan food before items sell out
Frequently asked questions
When are markets held at Edinburgh's Grassmarket?
Markets are held on various weekends throughout the year; specific dates vary by event. Visitors should check the Edinburgh City Council or VisitScotland events calendars for current schedules.
What kinds of goods are sold at the Grassmarket markets?
Typical goods include handmade Scottish crafts, locally produced food such as jams and artisan cheeses, hand-knitted knitwear, silver jewellery, whisky accessories, and seasonal produce.
Is the Grassmarket area good for eating and drinking beyond market stalls?
The surrounding streets host numerous traditional Scottish pubs, cafés, and restaurants. The White Hart Inn, reputedly one of Edinburgh's oldest pubs, is a notable nearby stop.
How far is the Grassmarket from Edinburgh's Royal Mile?
The Grassmarket is a short five-minute walk from the Royal Mile via Victoria Street — one of Edinburgh's most photographed stepped streets — or via the West Bow.
Is the Grassmarket accessible for wheelchair users?
The main Grassmarket square is relatively flat but cobblestoned, which can be challenging for wheelchair users and mobility aid users. The surrounding streets have steeper gradients that may require alternative routes.