Edinburgh’s Coolest Vintage and Secondhand Markets
Uncover the most popular vintage and secondhand markets across Edinburgh for unique fashion, antiques, and local crafts.
Edinburgh stands out for its rich tapestry of vintage boutiques, bustling secondhand stalls, and creative weekend markets, making it a paradise for thrift enthusiasts, fashion hunters, and culture lovers alike. From storied vintage shops dating back to the 19th century to lively open-air markets, the city offers a unique blend of history, style, and community spirit. This comprehensive guide explores the best places to discover heritage finds, retro clothing, artisan goods, and locally sourced food throughout Scotland’s capital.
Why Vintage and Secondhand Shopping Thrives in Edinburgh
- A city of heritage: Edinburgh’s historic architecture and progressive arts scene make the perfect backdrop for thriving vintage and craft markets.
- Eclectic variety: From luxury retro boutiques to bustling farmers’ stalls and family-run emporiums, there are options for all tastes and budgets.
- Community-driven: Many vintage and secondhand stores are linked to charities or local creators, supporting social causes and independent businesses.
- Sustainable shopping: Thrifting and picking up preloved goods helps towards sustainable fashion and a circular economy.
Edinburgh’s Essential Vintage and Secondhand Hotspots
Where you shop in Edinburgh will depend on your tastes, but most of the city’s best vintage, thrifting, and market experiences are concentrated in several key districts. Below, each area is explored in detail, complete with highlights and insider tips.
Leith Walk: Eclectic Fashion and Homeware Finds
For those in search of distinctive style and quirky décor, Leith Walk is a favorite destination. Away from the bustle of Princes Street, it offers eclectic fashion and homeware gems, with venues ranging from charity shops to curated boutiques.
- The Bethany Shop (17 Duke Street, Leith): A spacious store overflowing with nearly-new fashion and vintage homeware. Recent finds have included 1970s smoked glass coffee tables for under £20 and 1980s Jaeger wool dresses for £25. The collection changes often, so repeat visits are recommended.
- St Columba’s Hospice Care (352 Leith Walk): Regulars praise the premium layout and quality selection, which includes cashmere sweaters, midcentury kitchenware, and unique bed throws. Don’t miss the superior haberdashery department, perfect for crafters and DIY fashion fans.
- British Red Cross (1 Croall Place, Leith): This shop specializes in gently used items and brand-new products with tags—especially Zara apparel and accessories. A color-coordinated arrangement means a stress-free browsing experience for high-street fashion.
Grassmarket: Edinburgh’s Vintage District
Set in one of the city’s most picturesque quarters, the Grassmarket is a hub for vintage lovers, featuring iconic shops and eclectic fashions spanning the centuries. The area’s characteristic cobbled streets and historic buildings add to the experience.
- Armstrongs Vintage (81-83 Grassmarket): A true Edinburgh institution operating since 1840, Armstrongs Vintage is one of the oldest shops in Britain for retro attire. Expect statement knitwear, tailored cashmere coats, tweed jackets, and classic denim from across the decades. Their collection is vast, and with three locations in the city, Armstrongs often has what you’re seeking.
- Herman Brown (151 West Port): Serving local shoppers since 1983, Herman Brown offers a well-curated mix of fashion and accessories. Highlights include designer handbags, vintage jewelry, and one-off collectable pieces at remarkably reasonable prices.
- Carnivale (51 Bread Street): A boutique specializing in fashion and accessories from Victorian times to the late 20th century. Shoppers are drawn to the diverse array of silk scarves, vibrant 70s maxi dresses perfect for festival season, and a consistently changing selection.
Raeburn Place: The Stockbridge Experience
Stockbridge, a charming high street set northwest of Princes Street, is renowned for its thriving array of vintage, charity, and independent stores. Visitors and locals alike frequent Raeburn Place for everything from wool blazers to homeware curios and fashionable accessories.
- Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland Boutique (71-73 Raeburn Place): Always stocked with quality men’s apparel—think tuxedos and designer footwear—and regularly refreshed fashion edits.
- Shelter Scotland (104 Raeburn Place): Well-known for its impressive homeware section; crystal glasses, ornate decanters, and unique cocktail bar accessories feature prominently.
- Mary’s Living & Giving Shop (34a Raeburn Place): Every inch of this charity store presents treasures for fashion lovers. The accessories section particularly stands out—expect to find vintage brooches for as little as £2 and unexpected designer finds.
Edinburgh’s Colourful Weekly and Monthly Markets
Bonnie Edinburgh is not only famous for its standalone vintage shops but also for its vibrant markets that celebrate local creativity, artisan foods, and seasonal produce throughout the year. Whether you seek a hand-knitted scarf, a piece of original artwork, or handmade gourmet treats, these markets offer a uniquely Scottish blend of wares and experiences.
Edinburgh Farmers’ Market
Located on Castle Terrace, this award-winning market runs every Saturday from 9am–2pm in the dramatic shadow of Edinburgh Castle’s ramparts.
- Fresh produce: Markets feature premium Scottish meats (venison, beef, pork, chicken, lamb), seasonal vegetables, jams, chutneys, cheese, and fresh bread.
- Sweet treats and drinks: Handmade chocolates, craft beer, and warming drinks are popular, especially in the colder months.
Stockbridge Market
Each Sunday (10am–4pm), locals converge in Stockbridge’s charming streets for a market renowned for artisanal foods and handmade gifts.
- Artisan fare: Baked goods, artisan cheeses, crafts, dog treats, and fresh produce line the stalls.
- Crafts and design: Unique jewelry, crafts, and soaps are favorites among savvy shoppers and gift-givers.
- Foodie experience: Crepes, hot marshmallows, and street food provide a perfect snack as you browse.
Grassmarket Market
Saturdays (10am–5pm) see the historic Grassmarket transform into a bustling bazaar of food, handicrafts, and vintage wares within easy reach of the Royal Mile.
- Home-grown produce: Seasonal fruit, vegetables, sweets, and breads headline the market’s food selection.
- Craft and collectibles: Handmade arts, jewelry and gifts from local artisans add character.
Edinburgh Flea Market
Held on the last Saturday of every month in the Drill Hall at Leith, the Edinburgh Flea Market is perfect for those who love the hunt for true bargains.
- Stalls: Over 40 vendors sell clothing, antiques, collectibles, and bric-a-brac.
- Atmosphere: After exploring stalls, relax at the Drill Hall Café for coffee, cakes, and brunch.
Castle Street Fair
Taking place several times a year, the Castle Street Fair unfolds in the spectacular setting near Edinburgh Castle. Dates vary and should be checked in advance.
- Variety: Stalls sell hot and cold food, art, candles, soaps, knitwear, and woodcraft.
The West End Fair
Starting in August during the city’s renowned summer festivals, the West End Fair gathers hundreds of crafters and designers in St Johns Church grounds, right by Princes Street Gardens.
- Handmade specialties: Jewelry, fine art, designer leather, textiles, bath and beauty products, and fashion accessories.
- History: Since 1984, the fair has grown into a leading art and craft event in Scotland.
Expert Tips for Vintage and Secondhand Shopping in Edinburgh
- Arrive early: The best finds usually go early, especially for unique fashion and antiques.
- Explore all areas: Don’t just stick to one section; hidden gems are everywhere – especially in Stockbridge, Leith, and the West End.
- Inspect items: Examine fabrics, brands, and craftsmanship, as many shops curate collections from high-end designers or offer one-off pieces at bargain prices.
- Support local charities: Many shops are charity-run, so your purchases support community initiatives while reducing waste.
- Check market dates: For fairs like Castle Street Fair or West End Fair, confirm event dates ahead of your visit.
Vintage Shops and Market Comparison Table
| Location | Specialty | Address | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Armstrongs Vintage | Historic vintage boutique (since 1840) | 81-83 Grassmarket, EH1 2HJ | Statement fashion, outerwear, denim |
| Herman Brown | Designer and high-quality accessories | 151 West Port, EH3 9DP | Bags, jewelry, curated clothing |
| The Bethany Shop | Fashion, homeware, and vintage furnishings | 17 Duke Street, Leith EH6 8HG | Retro décor, classic dresses |
| Mary’s Living & Giving Shop | Charity fashion and accessories | 34a Raeburn Place, EH4 1HN | Designer finds, affordable accessories |
| Stockbridge Market | Artisan foods, crafts, local specialties | Saunders Street, Stockbridge | Gourmet treats, handmade gifts |
| Grassmarket Market | Home-grown produce, local arts | Grassmarket, Saturdays | Organic food, crafts |
| Edinburgh Flea Market | Antiques, bric-a-brac, collectibles | Drill Hall, Leith | Unique finds, bargain hunting |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When are Edinburgh’s main secondhand markets open?
A: Edinburgh’s major markets operate year-round. Grassmarket Market and Edinburgh Farmers’ Market run every Saturday, Stockbridge Market every Sunday, and Edinburgh Flea Market appears monthly on the last Saturday.
Q: Is secondhand shopping in Edinburgh affordable?
A: Yes. While curated boutiques may charge a premium for rare vintage, most shops and stalls in Edinburgh offer fantastic value, with items from high street brands to designer pieces often available for a fraction of their original price.
Q: Are the markets accessible for tourists and first-time visitors?
A: Absolutely. Locations such as Grassmarket, Leith Walk, and Stockbridge are central and walkable, with easy public transport links. Many markets are near major landmarks.
Q: Do markets in Edinburgh only sell fashion?
A: No. Alongside clothes and accessories, stalls offer homeware, artwork, gourmet foods, antiques, soaps, jewelry, crafts, and more.
Q: Can I find designer brands in thrift and vintage stores?
A: Yes. Stores like Mary’s Living & Giving Shop and Herman Brown sometimes stock major designer items, including vintage Dior, at affordable prices.
Final Thoughts: Why Edinburgh is a Vintage Shopper’s Paradise
Edinburgh’s rich selection of vintage and secondhand markets is unparalleled in Scotland. Each area—from Leith Walk’s quirky boutiques to Grassmarket’s storied institutions and Stockbridge’s welcoming charities—offers a distinctive experience filled with treasures and stories. Whether you’re searching for a fashionable statement piece, a one-of-a-kind antique, or a handmade Scottish specialty, Edinburgh is an essential destination for collectors, shoppers, and explorers seeking both style and substance.
