Charlotte Square with former St George's Church
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Charlotte Square Edinburgh

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

An elegant Georgian square featuring historic townhouses and a private garden, home to the Edinburgh International Book Festival.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

August

Edinburgh International Book Festival

CrowdHigh
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Charlotte Square with former St George's Church

Charlotte Square Edinburgh

Best Time

August

Edinburgh International Book Festival

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An elegant Georgian square featuring historic townhouses and a private garden, home to the Edinburgh International Book Festival.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A masterpiece of Georgian New Town architecture, offering a tranquil escape and a vibrant literary hub."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Driving Restrictions

Be aware of bus and taxi-only routes around Charlotte Square to avoid fines. :red_car:

📚 Book Festival Buzz

Visit in August for the renowned Edinburgh International Book Festival held in the gardens. :books:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Georgian Architecture

Georgian Architecture

Surrounding townhouses

Admire the elegant, symmetrical Georgian townhouses that frame the square, showcasing historical city planning.

Charlotte Square Gardens

Charlotte Square Gardens

Central private gardens

A peaceful oasis of greenery, these private gardens are a serene spot, especially during the annual book festival.

Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel

Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel

North side of the square

Experience luxury in this beautifully designed hotel, blending historic charm with modern amenities and dining.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Georgian Elegance

Charlotte Square is a stunning example of Georgian architecture, offering a tranquil escape. While it's a beautiful place to stroll, remember that some areas, like the private gardens, may have restricted access. Plan your visit to appreciate the surrounding buildings and the annual book festival if your timing aligns.

Navigating Charlotte Square

Getting around Charlotte Square and its vicinity can be a bit tricky due to traffic restrictions. Some routes are bus and taxi-only. If you're driving, pay close attention to signage to avoid potential tickets. Consider walking or using public transport for a smoother experience.

Best Times

When
August
Why
Edinburgh International Book Festival
Crowd
High
When
Spring mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

When is the best time to visit Edinburgh? That's a question asked all the time! Let's break down what to expect in spring. Remember: weather, crowds, and your budget are all connected when planning your trip. Edinburgh experience: Spring (March-May): Weather: Mild with increasing temperatures (7-13°C (or 45°-55°F), but still expect some rain. Flowers: Enjoy blooming trees and flowers, with cherr...
@rhonatheunicorn
231.7K likes • 1.6M views

🚗 Driving Restrictions

Be aware of bus and taxi-only routes around Charlotte Square to avoid fines. :red_car:

📚 Book Festival Buzz

Visit in August for the renowned Edinburgh International Book Festival held in the gardens. :books:

For the best views of Edinburgh Castle, head to the cafes along Princes Street. #edinburgh #edinburghscotland #edinburghlife #TravelMemories #travel #traveltips
@myedinburgh
45.3K likes • 505.8K views
Had the most amazing stay at the Kimpton Charlotte Square hotel in Edinburgh 🫶🏼 Ad (PR Stay) @kimptoncharlottesquare This is the perfect hotel for your next trip to Edinburgh. It is centrally located, perfect for exploring the city. Beautiful decor, a lovely modern spa, comfortable rooms and staff were all really welcoming and helpful. Dinner at Baba restaurant was amazing! The restaurant blend...
ameliastraveldiaries
217 likes • 12.1K views

🏨 Hotel Luxury

Consider staying at the Kimpton Charlotte Square for a central, elegant experience. :bed:

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Walking is the best way to appreciate the architecture and navigate the area. :athletic_shoe:

Edinburgh Travel Guide 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿❤️☔️ (⬇️ Save for later) 🛎️ Where to stay: The Balmoral Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel The Witchery by the Castle Cheval The Edinburgh Grand 🍲 Where to eat: The Witchery by the Castle The Scran & Scallie Ondine Dishoom Edinburgh The Ivy on the Square Timberyard 📸 What to do: Climb The Vennel Steps for castle views Explore The Writers’ Museum Stroll the iconic Royal...
takemyhearteverywhere
38.1K likes • 764K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Driving Restrictions

Be aware of bus and taxi-only routes around Charlotte Square to avoid fines. :red_car:

📚 Book Festival Buzz

Visit in August for the renowned Edinburgh International Book Festival held in the gardens. :books:

🏨 Hotel Luxury

Consider staying at the Kimpton Charlotte Square for a central, elegant experience. :bed:

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Walking is the best way to appreciate the architecture and navigate the area. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Charlotte Square is lauded for its stunning Georgian architecture and its role as a peaceful, central location in Edinburgh. Visitors appreciate its elegant ambiance and the luxurious Kimpton hotel. However, some find navigating the area by car challenging due to traffic restrictions, and access to the central gardens is often limited outside of event times.

What People Like

Elegant Georgian architecture
Central, tranquil location
Kimpton Hotel luxury

What People Dislike

Driving restrictions
Limited garden access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Charlotte Square is centrally located in Edinburgh's New Town. You can reach it by bus, with many routes stopping nearby. If driving, be mindful of traffic restrictions around the square, as some streets are for buses and taxis only. Reddit

Yes, Charlotte Square is well-served by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop in the vicinity, making it easy to access from various parts of the city. Reddit

Some streets around Charlotte Square are restricted to buses and taxis only. Drivers should pay close attention to signage to avoid fines. Navigating via Randolph Crescent might be an alternative route. Reddit

On-street parking can be limited and subject to restrictions. It's advisable to check local parking regulations or consider using nearby car parks. The Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel may offer parking for guests. Instagram

The most enjoyable way to experience Charlotte Square and its surroundings is on foot. This allows you to fully appreciate the Georgian architecture and easily navigate the area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Charlotte Square itself is a public space and generally free to access. However, the central gardens are privately owned and may have restricted access or require tickets during specific events like the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Reddit

The square is accessible at all times. The central gardens' access may vary, especially during the Book Festival. The Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel has its own operating hours for guests. Instagram

During the Edinburgh International Book Festival, there might be associated costs for accessing certain areas or events within the gardens. Outside of festival times, access to the gardens is typically restricted as they are privately owned. Reddit

You can visit the hotel's restaurants and bars, such as Baba, without being a guest. However, access to hotel amenities like the spa and pool is usually reserved for guests. Instagram+1

Yes, Charlotte Square is famously home to the Edinburgh International Book Festival, usually held in August. This event transforms the gardens into a vibrant hub for literary enthusiasts. TikTok

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Admire the stunning Georgian architecture, stroll through the tranquil gardens (when accessible), and enjoy the ambiance of this historic Edinburgh square. It's also a prime location for the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Instagram

Charlotte Square is a masterpiece of Georgian New Town architecture, designed by Robert Adam. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a beautiful example of urban planning. Reddit

The central gardens are privately owned and typically not open to the public, except during the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Reddit

The Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel is praised for its central location, beautiful decor, modern spa, and welcoming staff. It offers a luxurious stay in a historic setting. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The elegant Georgian townhouses and the central gardens offer beautiful backdrops for photography, especially during the golden hours. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel features Baba, a restaurant with Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine, and The Garden for cocktails. Other dining options are available in the surrounding New Town area. Instagram+1

Baba offers a Middle Eastern-inspired dining experience, known for its delicious flavors and vibrant atmosphere. Instagram+1

While the square itself might not have direct cafes, the surrounding New Town area is filled with numerous cafes offering coffee, pastries, and light meals. The Kimpton hotel also has a bar and restaurant. Instagram

Dining at the Kimpton Charlotte Square's restaurants like Baba is generally considered a mid-to-high range dining experience, reflecting the hotel's luxury status. Instagram

Yes, the New Town area surrounding Charlotte Square has many excellent cafes where you can enjoy a quality coffee. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The elegant Georgian townhouses lining the square offer a classic architectural backdrop. The central gardens, when accessible, provide a serene green space for photos. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hours) offer beautiful soft light and fewer crowds, enhancing the architectural beauty of the square. TikTok

Yes, the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel is known for its beautiful decor and is a popular spot for photography, both for its interiors and exteriors. Instagram+1

While Charlotte Square offers beautiful city views, it's not a primary viewpoint for Edinburgh Castle. For direct castle views, consider areas like Princes Street Gardens. TikTok

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both the grand architecture and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the square's expanse. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Charlotte Square itself is more about architectural appreciation, families can find nearby attractions. The central gardens, when open for the Book Festival, can be a fun place for children to experience a lively atmosphere. Consider visiting during the festival for a more engaging experience. TikTok

For a more kid-centric outing, explore nearby Princes Street Gardens, which often have play areas and open spaces for children to run around. The National Museum of Scotland is also a short distance away and offers interactive exhibits that are great for younger visitors. TikTok

🏨 Luxury Travelers

Charlotte Square is an ideal destination for luxury travelers, primarily due to the presence of the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel. This hotel is celebrated for its elegant design, central location, and excellent amenities, including a spa and fine dining options like Baba. Instagram+2

Staying here places you within walking distance of high-end shopping on George Street and other key Edinburgh attractions. The square's tranquil yet central setting provides a sophisticated base for exploring the city in style. Instagram

📚 Book Lovers

For bibliophiles, Charlotte Square is synonymous with the Edinburgh International Book Festival, held annually in August. This event is a major draw, transforming the square into a literary paradise. TikTok

Attending the festival offers a unique opportunity to meet authors, discover new books, and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of literature. Even outside of festival times, the square's elegant ambiance complements the intellectual pursuits of any book lover. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Georgian Grandeur of Charlotte Square

Charlotte Square stands as a magnificent testament to Edinburgh's Georgian New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Designed by the renowned architect Robert Adam, the square is characterized by its elegant, symmetrical townhouses that perfectly embody the neoclassical style. These grand residences, built in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, overlook a central private garden, creating a sense of exclusive tranquility amidst the bustling city. The architectural harmony and meticulous planning of Charlotte Square offer a glimpse into a pivotal era of Edinburgh's urban development. Reddit

The square's design emphasizes balance and proportion, with each townhouse contributing to the overall aesthetic. This uniformity, while visually striking, also highlights the era's focus on order and refinement. Today, many of these historic buildings house prestigious businesses, embassies, and the luxurious Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel, ensuring the square remains a vibrant and significant part of Edinburgh's landscape. Instagram+1

It's important to note that the central gardens are privately owned and access is generally restricted, except during special events. This exclusivity adds to the square's refined atmosphere, making any opportunity to experience the gardens, such as during the Edinburgh International Book Festival, particularly special. Reddit

Navigating Traffic and Access

Visitors planning to drive to or around Charlotte Square should be aware of specific traffic regulations. As highlighted by local discussions, certain streets in the vicinity are designated for buses and taxis only, meaning private vehicles may face restrictions and potential fines if they enter these zones without authorization. Reddit

This can make navigating the immediate area by car a bit complex. Travelers have reported getting into 'tangles' when trying to find routes off the square. It's recommended to consult a reliable GPS or map service that accounts for these restrictions, or better yet, to plan your journey with walking or public transport in mind. Reddit

For those staying at the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel, inquire about their parking facilities. Otherwise, utilizing nearby public car parks and then exploring Charlotte Square on foot is often the most stress-free approach, allowing you to fully appreciate the architecture without worrying about traffic violations. Instagram

The Edinburgh International Book Festival

Charlotte Square becomes the heart of the literary world each August when it hosts the Edinburgh International Book Festival. This renowned event transforms the usually serene private gardens into a vibrant hub of author talks, readings, workshops, and literary discussions. It's a major highlight for the city and attracts book lovers from across the globe. TikTok

During the festival, the gardens are opened up to the public, creating a unique atmosphere filled with creativity and intellectual exchange. Attendees can enjoy a diverse program featuring both established and emerging writers, covering a wide range of genres and topics. The festival also offers a fantastic opportunity to soak in the ambiance of Charlotte Square while engaging with literature. TikTok

If you're planning a visit to Edinburgh in August, coinciding your trip with the Book Festival can offer a truly memorable experience. It's a chance to combine sightseeing with a world-class cultural event, all set against the backdrop of Edinburgh's stunning Georgian architecture. TikTok

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