Charlotte Square

To the extreme west of Princes, George, and Queen Street lies Charlotte Square: a quiet, primarily residential square in Edinburgh’s New Town.

House fronts on Charlotte Square, Edinburgh

The square is less travelled for those who aren’t used to Edinburgh’s busy streets, and not exactly a tourist draw, although its beautiful architecture and easy access to Queensferry Road and the surrounding areas (including some of Edinburgh’s most well-regarded modern art museums as well as the path along the Water of Leith) make Charlotte Square one of Edinburgh’s hidden gems.

[image credit: David Farrer]

A Quiet Corner Of Edinburgh

The streets along Charlotte Square are easy to navigate, and are a frequent sight for most Edinburgh Drivers, who will use Charlotte Square primarily as a way to bypass Princes and George Street on their way across town from Leith Walk. Exiting along South Charlotte Street provides access to Shandwick Place, Lothian Road, Queensferry Road and more, which opens up the entire west of Edinburgh’s suburbs to those with car access.

Charlotte Square would not play a huge role in Edinburgh’s many literary and bus sightseeing tours if it wasn’t for the Edinburgh Book Festival which is held annually in Charlotte Square Gardens.

Edinburgh's Charlotte Square Gardens with the majestic Prince Albert Memorial.

[image credit: buhny]

The tiny square offers much in the way of peace and quiet to those who venture there. Exiting the square in any direction enables one to explore some of Edinburgh’s less-travelled streets, including the neighbourhoods north of the city centre such as Stockbridge and Queensferry.

A number of high-end hotels and a few restaurants are located in Charlotte Square, although they are more the sort of low-profile bed and breakfast variety than the showy Caledonian and other Princes Street mainstays.

Regal Charlotte Square town houses lit up at night

[image credit: byronv2]

The square itself is viewed most often from the window of a car passing through, and unless one has particular business at one of the addresses that line its gates, it’s unlikely to be a major attraction for anyone visiting Edinburgh or spending time in the area. Charlotte Square is a beautiful addition to Edinburgh’s streets and parks, particularly in its architecture, but awaits investment and attention before it becomes a go-to destination for tourists or locals.