If you like to support the locals whenever you visit a city, you couldn’t be better placed in the Scottish capital. Edinburgh is packed with brilliant independent shops - from cool and quirky clothing boutiques to amazing indie gift shops selling items crafted by friendly and talented local artisans.
If you’re planning a trip to the bonnie (but not so wee) city sometime soon, read on and we’ll tell you all the best independent shops in Edinburgh that need to be on your itinerary.
Location: 72-74 West Port, Edinburgh, EH1 2LE
What they’re about:
Like nothing more than to curl up with a good book? Armchair Books is a brilliant family-run book shop for literature lovers, tucked away on West Port. The cosy cavern is decked out with vibrant, threadbare rugs and floor-to-ceiling shelves, piled high with second-hand and rare books. Discover titles by your favourite authors or spend time browsing to find something completely new.
Location: 125 Bruntsfield Place, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH10 4EQ
What they’re about:
Thorne Records isn’t just a shop; it’s a sonic sanctuary. With stacks of vintage vinyl, each groove whispering stories from decades past, you’ll get lost in this welcoming little store. Whether you’re hunting for that elusive Bowie gem or just want to soak up the analog vibes, Thorne’s got you covered.
Location: 6A/8 Stafford St, Edinburgh, EH3 7AU or 53 Lothian Rd, Edinburgh, EH1 2DJ or 196 Morningside Rd, Morningside, Edinburgh, EH10 4TD
What they’re about:
If you’re keen to pick up some mementoes of your trip or purchase an Edinburgh-themed gift, you can’t beat stopping off at Paper Tiger. First opened in 1981, there are now three Paper Tiger stores to choose between in the city. All sell a wonderful collection of gifts, homeware, toys, jewellery and edible treats, most of which are made by Scottish designers and creatives.
Location: 9 West Port, Edinburgh, EH1 2JA
What they’re about:
Those after some new threads should definitely put Godiva on their shopping itinerary. The independent Edinburgh boutique is your one-stop-shop for unique and ethical women’s clothing that’s all been made by independent brands.
The shop is divided into two distinctive sections. While the front half has rails showcasing unique pieces from local designers, the back is a treasure trove of gorgeous vintage clothing and accessories.
Location: 18 Stafford St, Edinburgh, EH3 7BD
What they’re about:
There are also lots of brilliant independent clothes shops in Edinburgh stocking menswear. Among the many options is Frontiers Man, a cool and casual shop near Edinburgh Distillery, opened by a former chartered surveyor back in 2015.
It’s a great destination to uncover high-quality pieces from a range of independent brands, from Alex Mill to Nudie Jeans and Stutterheim. They also branched out into womenswear too, so there’s plenty of choice for everyone.
Location: 20 Thistle St, Edinburgh, EH2 1EN
What they’re about:
Always on the lookout for a new handbag or some amazing accessories? Covet is the best independent shop for you. The boutique has been supplying the city with gorgeous bags, jewellery and accessories from around the globe since 2007. Browse items from international and local designers in Covet’s warm and welcoming store just around the corner from the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.
Location: 23 Leith Walk, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH6 8LN
What they’re about:
Ancient Robot Games – where your next epic quest awaits! This cosy nook at the bottom of Leith Walk is the new kid on the indie block. A boardgame shop and café all in one, this venture offers a fun and inclusive setting for people to browse, play and generally enjoy themselves. But wait, there’s more! They also host weekly and monthly events, where you can sip coffee, roll dice and forge alliances. Be sure to check this gem out next time you’re in the city.
Location: 42 Victoria Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 2JW
What they’re about:
Located on Victoria Street, the Red Door Gallery may be small, but it’s certainly mighty. From quirky prints to captivating paintings, this place is a visual treasure trove. Offering a huge selection of art prints, homeware, fashion accessories and jewellery, it’s a shop not to be missed on your indie journey.
Location: 53 London Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH3 6LX
What they’re about:
Like stepping into a Scandi Pinterest board, Lifestory is an interior-lover’s dream. Need a quirky mug that whispers encouragement during those Monday blues? Lifestory’s got it. Or how about a linen throw that turns your sofa into a cloud? Yep, they’ve got that too. This minimalist haven should be top of your itinerary if homeware shopping is on the cards.
Location: 36 Elm Row, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH7 4AH
What they’re about:
The Cat’s Miaou is an independent gift shop selling quirky and unusual gifts. If you’re looking for Scottish treasures that you simply won’t find anywhere else, this is the place to go. We’re talking Harris Tweed dog poop bags (yes, they’re a thing!), Highland cow keyrings and locally made cat earrings. If this eclectic list hasn’t piqued your interest enough, rest assured there’s lots more to discover in-store.
Location: 40 Victoria Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 2JW
What they’re about:
Located on Victoria Street, this quirky shop sells magical delights and curated curiosities. An immersive experience in the heart of Edinburgh, Museum Context is as kooky as it gets. Plus, it’s the place to pick up officially licenced Harry Potter merchandise. From Dumbledore’s wand to an official Gryffindor quidditch jumper, this homage to all things Potter is worth a visit!
Location: 40 Easter Road, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH7 5RG
What they’re about:
Focussed on supporting the local creative community of indie makers in the region, Cloud 9 offers visitors unique jewellery, beautiful homeware and everything in-between. Perfect if you’re on the look out for a gift for a loved one, they have Jellycats galore, a luscious range of beautiful, fresh blooms and handcrafted cards for every occasion.
Location: 132 Bruntsfield Place, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH10 4ER
What they’re about:
Recently named by the Telegraph as one of the 50 best independent shops in the country, Biscuit offers a whimsical blend of clothing and living, all under one roof. Founded back in 2015, Biscuit beckons with its vibrant threads, quirky homewares and irresistible accessories. Whether you’re hunting for a funky blouse, a gift that screams ‘thoughtful’, or just a dose of retail therapy, Biscuit hits the spot.
Location: 93 Broughton Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH1 3RZ
What they’re about:
A staple of Edinburgh’s indie shop scene for almost 15 years, Curiouser and Curiouser is a design and homeware store offering up an array of unique design finds. With their ethos of focussing on local designers, expect to find handmade goodies, retro furniture and quirky gifts – what more could you need?
Location: 92 Grove Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, EH3 8AP
What they’re about:
Focussed on bringing botanical blooms to the homes of Edinburgh, Grow Urban has all your horticulture needs covered. From quirky cacti to majestic leafy wonders, you’re sure to find something you’ll love. Feeling peckish while browsing? Not to worry. These guys serve up locally roasted coffee and tasty treats that can be enjoyed whilst you consider if that four-foot fiddle leaf fig will fit in your bedroom (spoiler alert – it probably won’t, but you should take it anyway!).
Ready to head to Edinburgh and start shopping? With TransPennine Express, it’s easy. Book yourself a train to Edinburgh today to secure your sport. If you need some more ideas on what you can do once you’re there, check out the rest of our guides over on our blog.
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