Rose Street
Address: Rose Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2NH
Rose Street is located in the heart of the city centre, running between the major thoroughfares of Princes Street and George Street. This narrower street was designed as part of the New Town in 1767 to provide service access to the elegant Georgian buildings on either side, but over time, it has evolved into a lively destination in its own right. Today, the largely pedestrianised street is lined with traditional pubs, restaurants, cafés and shops. It is particularly well-known for its wide selection of pubs.
The street has long been associated with Edinburgh’s arts and literary heritage. Notably, the Rose Street poets were an influential collective of writers, including Hugh MacDiarmid and Robert Garioch, who would meet in pubs such as Milne’s Bar, the Abbotsford and the Café Royal during the 1950s and 60s. Today, the street maintains these artistic connections through its vibrant festival venues, and creative initiatives.
5 things to do on Rose Street
- Visit the street’s wide variety of pubs and bars.
- Enjoy a meal in one of the many cafes and restaurants.
- Browse the independent shops.
- Explore the street’s fascinating history and architecture.
- Spot the decorative rose mosaics in the pavement, a nod to the street’s name!
