Haymarket, Edinburgh

About Haymarket

Haymarket is a district in Edinburgh, Scotland. Situated just west of the city center, Haymarket is one of Edinburgh's main transport hubs, due in part to the Haymarket Railway Station. The station is the second-largest in Edinburgh and provides lines across the UK, including to London King's Cross. As well as having a major train station, Haymarket serves as a gateway to many of Scotland's main motorways, including the M8 and M9 motorways. 

The area that is now Haymarket has existed for hundreds of years. However, Haymarket only began to develop significantly in the mid 19th century with the arrival of a train line connecting Edinburgh to Glasgow. Modern-day Haymarket is the ideal place to start exploring Scotland's capital, due to its proximity to many of Edinburgh's best attractions. Haymarket is also renowned for its numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs. 

Things to do in Haymarket

Haymarket is home to many of the best eateries and pubs in Edinburgh, as well as tons of activities that are sure to please all ages. Once you arrive in Haymarket, check out some of these exciting attractions:

• Chow down at a local restaurant. Sample some Italian food at La Bruschetta or grab some sushi at Chizuru Tei.
• Quench your first at one of the local pubs and bars. Haymarket has several great watering holes, including The Jolly Botanist, Malones, and Ryrie's Bar.
• Shop til you drop on the Royal Mile. The Royal Mile is one of Edinburgh's main shopping avenues and boasts tons of designer stores and chic boutiques. 
• Take a hike up Arthur's Seat. This hill towers over Edinburgh at more than 800 feet high and provides breathtaking vistas of the cityscape. The start this trek behind Holyroodhouse and the climb takes about two hours.
• Discover exotic critters at Edinburgh Zoo. The zoo boasts over 150 different animal species, including pandas, which are rarely seen in captivity.

Transit options in Haymarket

• Local bus services (Lothian, First)
• Edinburgh tram service (From Edinburgh Airport to York Place)
• Taxi ranks (Central Taxis, Lida Taxis, E&I Taxis)

Luggage storage in Haymarket

Edinburgh is Scotland's capital and second-largest city, boasting historical sights dating back to the 12th century and wonderful Celtic culture. Before wandering around Edinburgh's hilly cobbled streets, pay a visit to a Haymarket luggage storage service. Bounce offers facilities at several local businesses, where you securely store your belongings before touring Edinburgh. You book through the Bounce app, and can cancel at any time free of charge if you're running late or end up not needing the service.

Attractions and activities near Haymarket

• Edinburgh Castle: Edinburgh Castle is one of Edinburgh's oldest buildings and is one of its most popular tourist attractions. The castle sits atop Castle Rock overlooking the city, affording stunning views of the surrounding area. Since the Bronze Age, a fortification has occupied this site, and part of the current structure dates back as far as the 12th century. Edinburgh Castle was used as a royal residence until the 17th century and has since been utilized as military barracks and a prison. It is thought to be one of Europe's oldest fortifications and the most besieged castle in Britain.
  Visitors can experience Edinburgh Castle's history firsthand with a guided tour. There are loads of intriguing exhibits within the castle's walls. Learn about the Scottish Wars of Independence at Argyle Tower, or head to the 16th century Great Hall, which features impressive displays of medieval suits of armor and a plethora of weaponry. Large bags and suitcases aren't allowed in Edinburgh Castle, and there are no onsite storage facilities. As a result, you should consider stopping by a Haymarket luggage storage facility before touring Edinburgh Castle. 
• Palace of Holyroodhouse: Another of Edinburgh's famous historic buildings, Holyroodhouse, is the British Royal Family's official residence in Scotland. The palace was built in the early 17th century and has been home to many of Scotland's most famous historical figures, including Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie.
  During a tour of the palace, visitors can explore 14 state rooms and see tons of fascinating artifacts. Outside the castle, you'll uncover the ruins of the 12th century Holyrood Abbey and take a stroll around the ornate royal gardens. You'll see some remarkable relics during the tour, including an embroidered canvas crafted by Mary Queen of Scots in the 16th century and eight panels by famed Brescian painter Lattanzio Gambara. For security reasons, large bags are prohibited inside Holyroodhouse, so swing by a Haymarket luggage storage service. 
• Scottish National Gallery: The Scottish National Gallery holds many of the most important pieces of fine art in Scotland. The gallery has been open since the mid 19th century and flaunts thousands of works of art dating from the 15th to the 20th century. There are dozens of world-famous pieces on show at the Scottish National Gallery, such as The Monarch of the Glen by Sir Edwin Landseer, Haystacks by Claude Monet, and Old Woman Frying Eggs by Diego Velázquez. Feeling inspired after seeing the collection? Head to the gallery shop and pick up some art supplies, or order a custom print of your favorite piece from the museum. You won't want to lug anything heavy around this sprawling gallery, so swing by an Edinburgh luggage storage service beforehand.