Edinburgh's Amazing Markets: Your Ultimate Guide
Love hunting for treasures, tasting local food, or finding unique crafts? Edinburgh's markets are perfect for you! Let's explore some of the coolest markets in and around Scotland's capital city. Most are free and all easy to reach from The Haymarket Hotel.
Tron Kirk Market
The Tron Kirk Market in Edinburgh is a vibrant makers market located on the historic Royal Mile. It features over 20 local artists and designers who display and sell unique handmade products, including paintings, photography, pottery, art, and jewellery.
This market is housed in the historic Tron Kirk building, which dates back to 1633. The Tron Kirk Market operates seven days a week and provides a unique opportunity for customers to meet the makers on site, which is appreciated by both locals and tourists.
What you'll find here:
Handmade Scottish jewellery
Traditional tartan scarves and clothing
Local artwork and photographs
Vintage collectibles
Scottish food products
Pro tip: Visit early in the day to avoid the biggest tourist crowds. The building itself is amazing to look at too!
Out of the Blue Drill Hall Market
This super cool market happens on the last Saturday of each month. The Drill Hall is a huge old building that comes alive with local makers, artists, and food vendors. It's where the locals go, so you know it's good!
What to expect:
Handmade crafts and artwork
Vintage clothing and accessories
Local food producers
Live music and performances
Kids' activities
Delicious street food
Entry fee may be required
Best thing? The friendly atmosphere! You can chat with the artists about their work and maybe even watch them create something.
Stockbridge Market
Every Sunday, the pretty neighbourhood of Stockbridge hosts one of Edinburgh's most loved markets. It's smaller than some others, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in quality!
What you'll discover:
Fresh local produce
Artisan breads and pastries
International street food
Local crafts and jewellery
Fresh flowers
Scottish cheese and meats
Don't miss: The hot food stalls! You can try everything from Scottish venison burgers to authentic Japanese dumplings.
Grassmarket Market
Every Saturday, the historic Grassmarket area hosts a wonderful market right under Edinburgh Castle. How cool is that? The views are amazing, and so are the stalls!
What's on offer:
Local arts and crafts
Vintage items
Fresh produce
Street food
Handmade jewellery
Local honey and jams
Photo tip: Stand at the west end of the market for an awesome picture of the castle towering above the stalls!
Leith Market
Every Saturday, Leith hosts this fantastic market full of local producers and makers. It's in the port area of Edinburgh, which gives it a really cool vibe.
What you'll find:
Fresh local food
Handmade crafts
Vintage goods
Street food vendors
Local art
Seasonal products
Special feature: Take a walk around the port and explore this fun area of Edinburgh while you're here.
Edinburgh Farmers' Market
This is the big one! Every Saturday, Castle Terrace hosts Edinburgh's largest farmers' market. With Edinburgh Castle as your backdrop, you can shop from over 40 producers from across Scotland.
What to look for:
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Scottish meats and fish
Local cheeses
Fresh bread and pastries
Highland beef
Scottish seafood
Local honey and jams
Top tip: Go hungry! There are lots of food stalls where you can try Scottish specialties.
Tips for Market Shopping in Edinburgh
Best Times to Visit
Most markets are busiest between 11 AM and 2 PM
Go early for the best selection
Go later for possible discounts
Weather Ready
Many markets are outdoors
Bring a rain jacket (it's Scotland, after all!)
Some indoor markets are perfect for rainy days
Money Matters
Bring cash, though many stalls now take cards
Some vendors offer student discounts
Don't be afraid to browse and try the free tasters without buying
Transport Tips
Walking is a great way to explore the city
All markets are reachable by either foot, bus or tram from Haymarket
Seasonal Special Markets
Don't forget about Edinburgh's special seasonal markets:
Christmas Markets
(November-January)
Located in Princes Street Gardens
Traditional German-style market
Lots of festive food and drinks
Crafts and Christmas decorations
See more about the Christmas market here.
Festival Markets (August)
Pop up during the Edinburgh Fringe
Located all around the city
Arts, crafts, and street food
Special performances
Making the Most of Your Market Visit
Talk to the Vendors. They love sharing stories about their products and can give you tips about the city too!
Try Something New. Each market has unique Scottish products you won't find anywhere else.
Take Photos. The markets are super Instagram-worthy, especially with Edinburgh's beautiful buildings in the background.
Make a Day of It. Plan your market visit as part of a bigger adventure - most markets are near other cool attractions.
Edinburgh's markets are more than just places to shop - they're where you can experience local life, try amazing food, and find unique treasures to take home. Whether you're looking for fresh Scottish produce, handmade crafts, or just want to soak up the atmosphere, there's a market for you!
Remember to check opening times before you go, as some markets only happen on specific days. Happy market exploring and as always, enjoy your stay!
