Edinburgh is such a picturesque city. It’s a photographer’s dream with all its beautiful architecture, stunning viewpoints, and dreamy castles.
I recently returned from my second visit to the city, and I honestly want to keep coming back. It’s a city with such a rich history, unique topography, and endless wonders to discover.
Most people would have heard of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Calton Hill, and Arthur’s Seat. They are some of the most popular attractions in the city. So naturally, they are great for photos.
But I’m here to talk about some lesser-known hidden spots. The following is a list of perfect Instagram-worthy photo spots that are (not so anymore) hidden secrets in Edinburgh.
Dean Village
What is Dean Village?
Dean Village used to house various types of mills. It had been around for 800 years and was later added as part of Edinburgh in the 19th century.
Eventually, the mills closed down and were removed. Trade disappeared, and the village fell into disrepair. It has since been redeveloped and is now a highly sought-after residential area.
WHy Visit Dean Village?
It feels like you’ve stepped back in time. I know, I know. Edinburgh is an old city, and you’d already feel this way, especially coming from Canada. But Dean Village has its own unique vibe.
The village has a quaint charm and is a nice little getaway from the bustle of the city centre. You can see evidence of its milling history from the buildings and structures.
It also helps that it sits in the perfect serene setting, complete with a babbling river and birds chirping.
What is the best way to get to Dean Village?
This little village is tucked away northwest of the city centre. It’s right by the Water of Leith, Edinburgh’s largest river.
The best way to reach it is by foot. It’s only about a five-minute walk from Princes Street via Queensferry Street. Go straight until just before the Dean Bridge and turn left on Bells Brae, a narrow street that will lead you to the heart of Dean Village.
I recommend this route to Dean Village since Bells Brae is quite steep. It’s much easier walking downhill here than going back up!
I would take the Water of Leith walkway to head back to the city centre after your visit. It’s a leisurely walk along the river. It will eventually take you to Leith, but I’d recommend going towards Stockbridge and Circus Lane for more Instagram-worthy spots.
Tips for Visiting Dean Village
Dean Village is a residential area, so it’s best to keep the following in mind:
- There are no visitor parking spots. It’s best to get here by foot or transit.
- There are no restaurants, cafes, or bakeries. Make sure you don’t come hungry!
- There are no public toilets.
- Be courteous and respectful of the local residents. Be mindful of posted private property signs when taking photos.
Circus Lane
What is Circus Lane?
Circus Lane is known as “the most beautiful street in Edinburgh,” and for a good reason! It’s a charming crescent-shaped lane with a cobbled street lined with beautifully decorated homes.
It has exploded in popularity over the past few years and has become a mecca for tourists and locals wanting a perfect Instagram photo. I happily admit that I am one of them.
I hadn’t heard about Circus Lane on my first visit to Edinburgh in 2017. So when I went back there this spring, I just knew I had to add it to my list!
Why is Circus Lane so “Insta” Famous?
Circus Lane was even more lovely in real life. The Georgian townhomes have meticulously maintained facades filled with beautiful planters and flora.
It’s the perfect spot for a jog or walks with the doggo. It’s a one-way residential street with no parking, so there is minimal car traffic. Very easy to pose in the middle of the road.
The clock tower from St. Vincent’s Chapel can be seen depending on which side of the street you face. This adds more depth and interest to the already beautiful backdrop.
Where is Circus Lane?
Circus Lane is located in the Stockbridge area of Edinburgh. It is right next to the grand Royal Circus.
You really can’t go wrong with using Google Maps for directions. The street signs are also prominent, so it’s hard to miss.
There is a traditional pub on one end of Circus Lane. Otherwise, there are many cute shops and cafes one street over on St. Stephen St.
Tips for taking photos at Circus Lane
With its popularity exploding over the past few years, I hear that Circus Lane can get quite busy, and you might have to wait a while to get a good photo with no one else in the background.
Fortunately, this was not the case when we visited. We arrived just after noon on spring Tuesday and had the whole street to ourselves, other than a couple of locals walking by.
- Take photos in both directions but having the chapel’s clock tower in the background adds more interest.
- Avoid crowds of tourists by visiting off-peak hours.
- Be courteous and respectful. Remember that people live in these homes.
The Vennel Steps Viewpoint
What is the Vennel Viewpoint?
Another newly discovered spot for me this trip is the Vennel Steps Viewpoint. I learned about it from a YouTuber blogging their Edinburgh trip. The location was also pointed out to us by our tour guide on our Hop-On Hop-Off bus. He claimed it was one of the most amazing spots to take a picture of the castle.
It is a shortcut consisting of stairs that connects Grassmarket to Heriot Row. There are traditional lampposts lining the steps, and the best part? You can see a fantastic view of Edinburgh Castle!
Why is the Vennel Worth A Visit?
The Vennel offers a unique perspective of Edinburgh Castle. In addition, the steps and lamps add some added drama to your photo.
It’s a little hidden spot that is easy to miss if you don’t happen to walk past it. This means no crowds making it easier to get your perfect shot.
After taking the perfect Instagrammable photo at the viewpoint, continue up the steps.
You will come across a section of the original Flodden Wall. This wall was built in the 16th century and was meant to protect Edinburgh from an English attack that never came.
Keep on going, and the Vennel turns into Heriot Place. At the very top, you’ll find George Heriot’s School.
Why is this noteworthy? Well, for Harry Potter fans like myself, it’s super cool to see the real-life inspiration for Hogwarts up close!
How to get to the Vennel Steps Viewpoint?
The best way to reach the Vennel Steps is from Grassmarket.
The entrance is at the intersection of West Port and Grassmarket. A good place marker is the wisteria-clad Cold Town House pub on the opposite side of Grassmarket.
The steps are labelled so you’ll know if you’re in the right spot. There are quite a bit of steps involved, but no worries. You will want to stop every few steps, turn around, and admire the castle view.
If you’d prefer to get to the viewpoint by going down the steps, start at the top along Lauriston Place and Heriot Place.
Tips for taking photos at the Vennel
- You can crop out the street entirely in the background with the perfect angle. This removes any signs of modern times; it would look like you have been transported back in time.
- The top of this alleyway leads to George Heriot’s School. Do not visit around 3 pm on school days to avoid school kids walking home.
Ross Fountain
What is Ross Fountain?
Ross Fountain is a 19th-century cast-iron statue with beautiful details of mermaids, cherubs, walrus, and lion heads. It also includes four female figures representing poetry, science, arts, and industry.
The fountain was sculpted in France, displayed in the London Great Exhibition of 1862, and gifted to Edinburgh by Daniel Ross, a local gunmaker.
It was installed in Edinburgh in 1872, sadly a year after Ross’ death.
Eventually, time had taken its toll, and the beloved landmark had its original paint wear off, and the water features stopped working.
The fountain underwent restoration work in 2017 and was completed in 2018. It is now painted bright turquoise and gold, with its water flowing again.
Where is Ross Fountain located?
Ross Fountain is located in the lower area of West Princes Street Gardens.
It’s centrally located and hard to miss due to its bright turquoise paint.
Why is Ross Fountain an amazing spot for photos?
The beautiful fountain has become an iconic landmark in Edinburgh. It has so much detail, and it’s cool to see the artwork up close.
Ross Fountain has one of the best views of Edinburgh Castle. It has become popular with tourists and locals as a perfect spot for photos and videos!
Also, if you are a Eurovision movie fan like myself, you might recognize it from the scene where Will Ferrell tells off a group of American tourists.
Tips for taking photos at Ross Fountain
Ross Fountain is a popular spot for taking photos, so there are usually lots of people around.
- You need patience to have that perfect photo with no one else in the background.
- The fountain and castle are lit at night, making for unique, exciting photos.
Holyrood Abbey
What is Holyrood Abbey?
Holyrood Abbey is the ruins of a 12th-century Catholic abbey church.
Rood is the Scots word for a cross, so Holyrood means “Holy Cross.”
It was the site of various royal coronations, weddings, funerals, and interments.
Its guesthouse was developed into a royal residence and was later expanded to become the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
It has a rich history and has undergone many remodels and reconstructions. However, the abbey was eventually left in ruins in the 18th century after the roof collapsed.
Holyrood Abbey has been designated a scheduled monument, meaning it’s a protected nationally important historic building or site.
Why should you visit Holyrood Abbey?
Holyrood Abbey is the perfect spot for you if you like history and old ruins. There is so much history here, and you can learn much from the guided tours.
When I first stepped into the Abbey, I was overcome with emotions. I could just imagine how grand and important it was to Edinburgh and Scotland back in the day.
The ruins are hauntingly beautiful, and you can see Romanesque and Gothic influences in the church’s style.
Where is Holyrood Abbey located?
Holyrood Abbey is located adjacent to the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the end of the Royal Mile.
Though you will need to purchase tickets to the Palace to access the abbey, I think it’s worth it.
You get access to the Palace, the Queen’s official residence when she visits Edinburgh. You can also wander the palace grounds and gardens and admire the view of the Salisbury Crags and Arthur’s Seat.
Tips for visiting Holyrood abbey
As of writing this post, the Abbey is unfortunately currently closed due to conservation work.
Keep checking their website here for the latest updates
When they eventually open, I recommend going with the guided tour of the Abbey with their Palace Gardens to learn all about its history.
This post outlined five hidden Instagram photo spots in Edinburgh.
If you have visited Edinburgh, what are your favourite spots?
For more ideas on what to do in Edinburgh, check out this post on the must-try places to eat.
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