Edinburgh is full of amazing spots for night time photography, whether you love the dramatic Old Town skyline or the reflections along the The Shore in Leith. Here are a few ideas to help you find the best locations.
1. Calton Hill
The Edinburgh skyline viewed from Calton Hill
The iconic new of Edinburgh from Calton Hill is one of the best in Scotland and only a few minutes walk from the east end of Princes Street. It provides panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline, including the major landmarks of Edinburgh Castle, the Balmoral Hotel clock tower, and Princes Street below.
There are also several monuments on the hill itself such as the National Monument the Dugald Stewart Monument and the Nelson Monument which open up a lots of other compositional possibilities. You may also be lucky enough to capture an incredible sunset.
2. The Shore at Leith
The Ocean Mist boutique hotel berthed at Leith Shore
This historic waterfront area is located just minutes from Edinburgh city centre and is known for its vibrant restaurants, cozy pubs, and bars. Moored in the harbour itself are a handful of barges and boats, most prominently the Ocean Mist with its rich history. The former minesweeper and gentleman’s pleasure yacht is now a boutique hotel. The Shore at Leith transforms as it illuminates at night which makes for a great photography location.
3. Dean Village
Dean Village at night
Dean Village is a popular residential area a few minutes walk from the west end of Princes Street. It’s history as a milling centre gives a glimpse into Edinburgh’s early industrial life and the historic architecture makes it a firm favourite with tourists and photographers alike. It can get fairly busy during the day so I quite often visit later on when the street lamps and lights from the homes give the scene a warm, homely glow.
4. The Vennel
No list on photographing Edinburgh at night would be complete without including this iconic location. The Vennel is a narrow, atmospheric alleyway offering a breathtaking view of Edinburgh Castle. The Vennel is situated just off The Grassmarket in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. It can get busy with photographers and content creators during the day which is another reason to visit at night. Bonus points if the you can capture the castle illuminated in a different colour for a special occasion!
The Vennel in Edinburgh
5. Circus Lane
Circus Lane in the Stockbridge area of Edinburgh is my final choice. This curved cobbled street is lined by mews houses and victorian street lamps with St Stephen’s Church looming large in the background. It presents an amazing natural composition and you really can’t go wrong. If you visit Stockbridge during the day on a Sunday, there’s an artisan food and craft market just opposite which I’d recommend too.
Circus Lane in Edinburgh