Victoria Street in Edinburgh at dusk, featuring colorful storefronts illuminated with warm lights. The curved street is lined with parked cars and stone buildings, with a beautiful glow from the shops and upper balconies.

Complete Guide to the Shops on Victoria Street Edinburgh

ByTaylor Beal Posted Last Updated

Headed to Edinburgh and Wondering what Shops are on Victoria Street? And which ones are worth visiting? 

There are a bunch of shops on Victoria Street- from booksellers to Harry Potter souvenir shops, and, of course, a few restaurants as well.

I’ve spent a lot of time meandering up and down this road, and what I can tell you is that it is not just a hot spot for tourists (Because, well, it is Diagon Alley, right?). 

Some of the stores along Victoria Street in Edinburgh (which turns into W Bow Street) are actually really unique and definitely worth your time.

This post covers what stores you’ll find along this historic street in Edinburgh, what they are known for, and some of my personal tips and favorite anecdotes you should know from my own experiences shopping along Victoria Street! 

A rainy evening on Victoria Street in Edinburgh, with light reflecting off the wet cobblestone streets. In the foreground, the red door of a hotel stands out, while further down, the shops on Victoria Street Edinburgh glow under the streetlights.

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Stores on Victoria Street, Edinburgh

Museum Context: Harry Potter Store

Address: 40 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2JW, United Kingdom

First things first, you need to know about Museum Context. It is the spot for Harry Potter merchandise and souvenirs in all of Edinburgh and the first shop you MUST visit on Victoria Street. It’s also a great place to go if you’re traveling with kids.

I thought this was going to be just another Harry Potter store- boy, was I wrong. 

This store is three levels packed full of anything Harry Potter that you can dream up- even some unique items you can only buy from Museum Context. 

They have a plethora of wands, clothing, books, and, my personal favorite, specially-designed tea towels (because I use those more than wands, okay?!). 

*Make sure you pop upstairs to the very top floor and get your picture in the Chamber of Secrets mirror! The basilisk is super creepy! 

John Kay’s Bookshop

Address: 8 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2HG, United Kingdom

I could not adore John Kay’s Bookshop more if I tried. It’s my favorite shop on Victoria Street by a mile. 

It is a stunningly beautiful independent bookstore tucked into the colorful facades of Victoria Street. 

Inside you’ll find books, antique prints and maps, and other unique curiosities. 

This is also the bookshop that the Jenny Colgan book The Christmas Bookshop was based on, so you can, of course, pick up a copy of that here! 

A close-up of John Kay’s bookstore on Victoria Street in Edinburgh, featuring a blue facade with a green door. The windows are decorated with festive Christmas ornaments, casting a warm and inviting light from inside.
The delightful John Kay’s bookshop.
A vibrant window display of a bookshop, featuring festive decorations and gifts. The large golden sign on the glass reads "Books, Art, Prints, Gifts," while inside, small Christmas trees, books, and ornaments are neatly arranged.
The whimsical Mutt’s Nutts.

Isle of Skye Candle Company

Address: 93 W Bow, Edinburgh EH1 2JP, United Kingdom

Again…thought this was “just another candle shop.” No, this is no Yankee Candle. It is so much better.

Isle of Skye Candle Shop has the most elevated and rich scents of any candle shop I have been in. And yet, it is still reasonably priced. 

I brought home six (yes, 6!) candles last time, and I still wish I had brought home more! I’ve used them all! 

The best part about this store is that they have a line of signature Scottish scents. The Scots Pine and Bog Myrtle and Fresh Mint candles are my personal favorites! 

The Edinburgh Natural Skincare Company

Address: 32 Victoria Street Edinburgh EH1 2JW

Again..not just another skincare company.

Edinburgh Natural Skincare uses all natural ingredients (obviously) to create the most luxurious products. 

They have everything from beard oil to face serum to daily moisturizer. I think I tested just about everything in the store!

My favorite purchases were the Geranium and Sweet Orange Luxury Lip Balms and the handmade cold-processed soaps! 

The interior of a shop featuring shelves lined with neatly arranged handbags of various colors. A wooden table in the foreground has woven baskets, giving the space a minimalist and organized feel.
Custom handbag making class
A narrow street in Edinburgh, lined with tall, historic stone buildings. Cars are parked along the side of the street, with one prominent Mini Cooper in front. A woman walks along the pavement, and shops can be seen along the ground floor of the buildings.
Victoria Street

Islander Handbags Flagship Store 

Address:

Islander Handbags are a name you should know if you don’t already. 

They are a brand of tartan and tweed bags that are produced in Scotland. And they. Are. beautiful. Like, seriously…stunning and of such high quality.

I only found out about them because I participated in a custom handbag making class at their workshop just down the street from this location! However, you can also buy premade bags at the flagship store on Victoria Street.

The Enchanted Galaxy (The Great Wizard)

Address: 1 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2HH, United Kingdom

I have never been inside a store like this one. If you are any type of fantasy-lover, it will feel like home.

The Enchanted Galaxy has merchandise for basically every fantasy world you can think of. Of course, there are plenty of pieces of Harry Potter merchandise, but there is also a healthy selection of items from the Star Wars universe, Marvel Superheroes, the Upside Down (Stranger Things) and more!

As a self-proclaimed gamer-book nerd, I felt right at home! If you’re looking for a unique gift for someone, I’d definitely recommend you check this place out!

IJ Mellis Cheesemonger

Address: A, 30 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2JW, United Kingdom

When I visited this store on Victoria Street, it felt like I was stepping back into another world where little market shops existed with truly fresh, artisan items. 

Although this shop is small, don’t overlook it!

You can buy cheese, obviously, but there is also bread, crackers, and other accoutrements on hand. Take time to peruse the jams and mustards along with plenty of other options!

Taylor and a friend posing playfully with wands in hand on the cobblestone streets of Victoria Street, Edinburgh. The street curves behind them, showcasing the historic buildings and colorful shops that line this famous area.
Harry Potter your visit to Victoria Street!
Taylor and a girlfriend smiling and holding up glasses of whisky in a dimly lit pub. The backdrop features other patrons and a cozy, relaxed atmosphere typical of a Scottish bar.
A dram anyone?

The Whisky Shop

Address: 28 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2JW, United Kingdom

Please don’t visit Scotland without taking home some Scotch whisky for someone back home. Or, you know, for yourself. 

The Whisky Shop has a plethora of options for you, even for whisky drinkers like me who need…um…something a little less…whisky-like. 

Even if you’re a little unsure of what to grab, the employees here are on hand to lend a recommendation and are incredibly helpful. 

Plus, there are casks you can get a dram from AND airplane-sized bottles if you want to try a few!

Chalmer’s Tweed and Cashmere

Address: 99 W Bow, Edinburgh EH1 2JP, United Kingdom

This is THE place if you’re on the hunt for upscale tweed and cashmere (of course). 

You can’t miss Chalmer’s shop on Victoria Street- just look for the large nose and glasses above the door (Surely some inspiration for Weasley’s Wizard’s Wheezes if you’re a Harry Potter fan!). The store is based in what was once an optician’s shop.

Inside, you’ll find a small selection of fine coats, scarves, and bags. In addition, a supply of knit sweaters and such are available. 

The Mutt’s Nutts

Address: 108 W Bow, Edinburgh EH1 2HH, United Kingdom

The Mutt’s Nutts is…well, it’s original, I’ll say that!
 

Sitting just at the foot of Victoria Street, this gift shop is somewhat of a catch-all- you never know quite what you’ll find. 

The front of the store sticks out with its bright red exterior. And, I will admit, I only walked in because of the Christmas display in the window! This is one of the few places you can find Christmas decorations and knick knacks all year long- not just when Edinburgh’s Christmas is on!

However, there are tons of gifts for special occasions, gag gifts, and unique Scottish souvenirs as well. 

I purchased my FAVORITE nutcracker ever here…a bagpiper! Such fun!

A rainy Victoria Street in Edinburgh, with colorful storefronts lining the curved cobblestone street. The wet pavement reflects the glow of the shop windows, highlighting the charm of the famous stores on Victoria Street Edinburgh.

Restaurants on Victoria Street

Although Victoria Street is mainly for shopping, there are also a few restaurants you might want to visit:

Finnegan’s Wake Edinburgh

9B Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2HE, United Kingdom

Ahhhh, a brilliant Irish Pub in Scotland. Who doesn’t need one of those? Let’s face it- everyone could use a great pint of Guinness once in a while, amiright?

Finnegan’s Wake Irish Pub is a brilliant spot for live music, watching sporting events, and an evening out. 

This spot serves drinks only, though, so don’t head in expecting to have a dinner. This is primarily a nightlife venue. 

If you’re in the area, they have live music every night and are open until 1:00 AM! 

A warm latte with delicate foam art next to a savory quiche, presented on a wooden plate. The scene is set on a small café table, giving off a cozy and inviting vibe.
Coffee and a delicious cream pastry at La Barantine Victoria – the perfect 3 o’clock pick me up.
A quiet Victoria Street during the day, with vibrant-colored storefronts curving along the cobbled street. Pedestrians are walking in the distance, and the mix of shops and historic stone buildings adds to the charm of the scene.
Victoria Street

La Barantine Victoria

Address: 89 W Bow, Edinburgh EH1 2JP, United Kingdom

I found this bakeshop by accident- I was on my way (hurriedly) to make a reservation at Edinburgh Castle, and I needed a quick bite to eat! Needless to say, I ended up here many more mornings during my trip.

This cute little French bakery is just- Chefs kiss. You can grab and go or sit at one of their tables for breakfast. 

I would highly recommend any of their personal-sized quiches or croissants. However, they have a massive array of pastries, sandwiches, and other items as well, including, of course, coffee! 

While La Barantine Victoria is marketed as a cake and bake shop, I 10/10 recommend doing breakfast here, too!

Bertie’s Proper Fish and Chips

Address: 9 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2HE, United Kingdom

When you see the bright red Bertie’s sign out front, you want to stop. Trust me. 

This is the spot for, how you say, *proper* fish and chips. One of the local guides we had in Edinburgh even recommended this spot, so you know it’s good! 

While you can do takeaway, this spot is more of an elevated take on the traditional fish and chips experience. You can make a reservation at the restaurant, or even hold an event here.


They, of course, have many takes on the traditional dish, but also have other Scottish food tour favorites like deep fried Mars bars, steak pie, and haggis. 

There are even gluten free and vegan options available! 

A bustling street view of Edinburgh on a cloudy day. The street is lined with historic stone buildings and storefronts, and people are walking along the cobblestone road, some carrying shopping bags.

The Bow Bar

Address: 80 W Bow, Edinburgh EH1 2HH, United Kingdom

I adore The Bow Bar. It is just what I had imagined when I pictured a Scottish bar full of ambiance. 

While it’s pretty small, this spot is not lacking in character. The deep wood interior and its long bar packed with taps and a wall of whisky bottles makes it the perfect place to pop in for a dram- especially since they bottle their own whisky!

The Bow Bar is no joke- they’ve won Best Craft Beer Bar of the Year AND Best Bar at the Scottish Hospitality Awards in 2022, so they definitely know what they’re doing.

Oink Victoria Street

Address: 34 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2JW, United Kingdom

Oink is a quick-service restaurant on Victoria that serves up hog roasts in a variety of ways.  

You can choose to make your own sandwich with rolls, filling, and sauces, or grab a roast sausage instead!

There are a few Oinks throughout Edinburgh now, and it’s a great choice for a quick takeaway lunch. 

Hula Grassmarket

Hula is a lovely little cafe at the bottom of the street near the Grassmarket area serving what I would call more health-conscious items. 

I walked in for a takeaway meal, and that didn’t work super well. However, the food that I saw people eating looked amazing.

Hula serves breakfast and lunch, with items like fresh smoothies and juices, oat bowls, and unique avocado toasts.

I wish I had had more time to head back and sit down for a proper meal while I was in the area, but I am adding Hula to my list for next time!

A sweeping view of Edinburgh's cityscape, with the iconic clock tower of Balmoral Hotel in the foreground. Tall gothic spires from historic churches can be seen in the background, overlooking the bustling streets below.

FAQ: Shopping Victoria Street in Edinburgh

Here are a few more things to know about the Shops on Victoria Street in Edinburgh: 

What shops are there in Victoria Street, Edinburgh?

For such a small street, there are actually quite a few shops and restaurants located on Victoria Street. There are a few Harry Potter-themed shops, a bookstore, a cheesemonger, and a few cafes and restaurants! There are even a few high-end clothiers.

Why is Victoria Street in Edinburgh so famous?

Victoria Street is mainly famous for being so colorful and for being the inspiration behind J.K. Rowling’s Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series. Hence why there are so many Harry potter tours that end here and why there are a few wizard-themed shops on the street.

What is the best shopping street in Edinburgh?

I wouldn’t say that Victoria Street is the best shopping street in Edinburgh. It’s a great place to meander around, pop in for a look, enjoy a dram, and spend an afternoon. However, it’s not great for like all out shopping, if you get what I mean? 

For that, the best shopping street in Edinburgh is absolutely Princes Street in the New Town area.

What is the most famous street in Edinburgh?

There’s no doubt that the most famous street in Edinburgh is The Royal Mile. There’s just no contest! But Victoria Street books a very close second when it comes to famous streets in Edinburgh.

Wrapping Up: Guide to the Shops on Victoria Street

And that’s it! All of the stores and restaurants you should know about on Victoria Street. 


This is by no means an exhaustive list- there are definitely a few other stores tucked into the street that I really just beeline past. But the ones listed in this post are definitely worth your time if you’re planning to spend a few days in Edinburgh and want to experience a little bit of Scottish culture on Victoria Street!

Enjoy your time in Scotland! And have a dram for me 🙂

Taylor Beal is the creator behind Traverse With Taylor, a Europe-focused travel blog that helps travelers explore Europe confidently and easily through practical guides, detailed itineraries, and real experiences. With more than a decade of European adventures and over 29 countries explored, she’s always chasing great coffee, incredible food, and memorable local moments. Taylor spends much of her time in Scotland and Amsterdam, two of her favorite places in Europe, and shares insider tips to help you make the most of your trip. When she’s not exploring, she’s teaching others about the power of travel and the history that shaped the world we see today.

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