Frequent Haunts

– by Rochelle Kitovsky

As someone who absolutely loves to walk around, I’ve found myself trying to find almost every nook and cranny in this lovely city. For this reason, I would love to share my favorite finds with all of you.

Starting off with coffee, Edinburgh has an endless supply. I highly recommend walking over to the Marchmont/Morningside area and there you will find more than a handful of lovely spots. My personal favorite is Books N’ Cup, where I tend to sit for hours on end, switching between reading my book, doing homework, and eating their scones. The treehouse cafe also seems to be a fan favorite spot in this area (especially thanks to their pancakes). Closer to different parts of campus, there is Black Medicine coffee (close to Potterow)– which is phenomenal, and the Milkman (right next to New College and Waverly station). There is also uplands roast, which is right next to the main library and has renowned hot chocolate on hand.

If you like to read, like me, you’ll find that the Topping and Co. must be the greatest place on Earth. With floor to ceiling bookcases, and moving ladders for your convenience, it is easily my favorite place to walk over to on a free day. It is located on Leith walk, right past St. James Quarter (our lovely mall section). There are also multiple Waterstones locations, my frequent haunt being the one on Princes Street, with its 3 stories of magic within its walls. If you prefer second-hand books, there is an array of locations: Armchair books, the Gently Mad Bookshop, Edinburgh Books (not to be confused with the purple Edinburgh Bookshop in Morningside), and so many more.

For the shoppers amongst us, Edinburgh has many places to find quality pieces and knick-knacks. Walking past Prince’s Street (urban outfitter will be there when you get back), head to Stockbridge. It is home to many coffee shops, a common farmer’s market, clothing stores (such as TOAST), and trinket stops. It is a beautiful area to wander, with its beautiful architecture and proximity to Leith walk, as well as it’s access to shopping! From there, you can also wander off to Dean Village– a short walk through a picturesque bridge and local community. In the opposite direction, you can head to Calton Hill– a tiny hike to beautiful views of Arthur’s seat, especially at sunset.

If you decide to get away from the center of Edinburgh, take the bus over to Portobello beach for the day, and if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, go for a polar plunge there. Walk along the boardwalk, enjoy some crepes, watch the dogs running along the sand. It’s always a beautiful day by the water in Edinburgh.

I do also believe that walking through Victoria Street and to Grassmarket is a must do, even if it is packed with tourists. There’s just nothing else like it in Edinburgh. The shops along Victoria Street are adorable, with a jellycat store (Squish), and a Harry Potter one as well (obviously). As you walk down to Grassmarket, there is a restaurant called Hula, that is an excellent spot if you’re looking for “clean” food such as acai bowls and salads. And then because you’ve earned it, I recommend stopping at the Kilted Donut in Grassmarket.

If you’re up for a walk with your donut, go over to the Prince’s Street Gardens, directly to the fountain cafe. There you will find picnic tables overlooking the beautiful fountain and the even more stunning Edinburgh castle. Grab the book you snagged at Topping and enjoy its chapters while looking out at the heart of your new home.