The New Town of Edinburgh: a masterpiece of Georgian urban planning
The New Town is not new (but it is beautiful)
Organizeholidays in Edinburghand focusing only on the Old Town means missing out on half of the city. The New Town was built between 1765 and 1850 to alleviate the overcrowded medieval center. Today it is a masterpiece of Georgian architecture, with grid streets, elliptical squares, sandstone facades, and private gardens. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995, it is a pleasure to walk through just to admire the entrance doors and wrought iron railings.
Brief history: why it was built
In the 18th century, the Old Town was one of the most densely populated areas in Europe (up to 10 stories high, with entire families in one room). In 1752, a competition was held to design a "new city" north of the castle. The young architect James Craig won, proposing a grid of three main streets (Princes Street, George Street, Queen Street) connected by perpendicular streets. The squares (St Andrew Square, Charlotte Square) would host churches and public buildings. Construction began in 1767 and continued for nearly a century.
Princes Street: the backbone
Princes Streetis the main street, but it is also the most compromised: many Georgian buildings were demolished in the 1960s to make way for commercial high-rises. However, some original buildings remain:
The Royal Scottish Academy(1826, neoclassical).
The Balmoral Hotel(1902, but in Scottish baronial style – not Georgian, but iconic).
The Ross Fountain(1872, made of cast iron).
The south side of Princes Street is a park (Princes Street Gardens), so the view of the castle is spectacular.
George Street: elegance
George Streetis the most beautiful and best preserved. Here you can find:
St. Andrew's and St. George's Church(1784), with a Corinthian portico facade.
Assembly Rooms(1787), where balls and concerts were held. Today it hosts events.
Numerous banks and officesin Georgian buildings, with symmetrical facades and six-pane windows.
George Street is also the street for luxury shopping (Mulberry, Michael Kors, Barbour) and cocktail bars.
Charlotte Square (the perfect square)
Designed by Robert Adam (the greatest British neoclassical architect) and completed after his death. It is considered the most harmonious Georgian square in the UK. Must see:
Bute House(No. 6-7), the residence of the Scottish First Minister (guided tours by appointment).
West Register House(former church, now national archive).
The private gardens in the center (accessible only to residents, but visible from the railings).
Georgian House(No. 27 Charlotte Square) is a house-museum managed by the National Trust for Scotland. Furnished as it was in 1790, with original furniture, stuccos, and silver. Admission £9. A must-see to understand how the upper middle class lived.
St Andrew Square
The first square to be built (1769). In the center, the Melville Column (1823), 45 meters tall, dedicated to Henry Dundas (a controversial politician for his role in the slave trade). Today the square is surrounded by offices and banks, but the central garden is public (unlike Charlotte Square).
Queen Street
The northernmost, less elegant but with beautiful residential buildings. Today it is home to medical and legal practices. Must see: theQueen Street Garden(private, but visible).
The perpendicular streets (Castle Street, Frederick Street, Hanover Street)
These streets connect Princes to George to Queen. They are filled with Georgian houses converted into hotels, offices, and shops. Walk alongFrederick Streetto see the original wooden doors with iron lanterns.
Moray Place (the secret)
Not in Craig's original plan, but added in 1820. A perfect circle of Georgian houses around a private garden. It is one of the most exclusive streets in Edinburgh (houses cost millions). Located west of Charlotte Square, accessible on foot.
How to visit the New Town
On foot:it is compact. It takes 5 minutes to walk from Princes Street to Queen Street. To see everything (with stops), 2 hours.
Free tour:Edinburgh Free Walking Tours has a specific tour of the New Town (2 hours, tip).
Audio guide:download the "New Town Heritage Trail" app (free, 10 points of interest).
Trivia
The New Town has been used as a location for the films "Greyfriars Bobby" (1961) and "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" (1969).
The famous novelist Robert Louis Stevenson lived at 17 Heriot Row (now a blue plaque).
The doors of Georgian houses often have a "fanlight" above the door – a symbol of prosperity.
FAQ
What does "Georgian" mean?
The architectural style in vogue during the reigns of Kings George I-IV (1714-1830). Symmetry, proportion, six-pane windows, sandstone facades.
Is the New Town a UNESCO World Heritage site on its own?
Together with the Old Town, they form a single UNESCO World Heritage site (Old and New Towns of Edinburgh).
How long does it take to visit the New Town?
A quick walk of 1 hour (only Princes, George, Charlotte). To explore further (Georgian House, details), 2-3 hours.
Are there antique shops in the New Town?
Yes, many on Thistle Street and Rose Street (perpendicular to George). Rose Street is famous for its pubs and art galleries.
Can I enter the private gardens?
Charlotte Square Gardens and Moray Place Gardens are private (key access only for residents). But you can see them from the railings.
What is the best time to photograph the New Town?
Early morning (8:00-9:00) in spring, when the low light enhances the sandstone.
Is the Georgian House accessible?
Yes, the ground floor and first floor are wheelchair accessible. The upper floors have narrow stairs.
A transport in the Scottish Enlightenment
Theholidays in Edinburghthey would not be complete without a walk in the Georgian New Town. It is the perfect counterpoint to the medieval Old Town: order, symmetry, light, open spaces. Walking along George Street or sitting in Charlotte Square transports you to the Scottish Enlightenment, when Edinburgh was called "the Athens of the North." Even if you are not an architecture enthusiast, the golden sandstone facades at sunset and the quiet squares will captivate you.
For a comprehensive overview of periods, itineraries, budgets, and transportation in the Scottish capital, check out our complete guide to holidays in Edinburgh.
Review date:March 21, 2026