St. Andrew Square in Edinburgh: A Historic Heart of the New Town

Introduction

At the center of Edinburgh’s elegant New Town lies St. Andrew Square, a vibrant space that blends Georgian charm with modern city life. Created in the late 18th century as part of James Craig’s grand design for Edinburgh’s New Town, the square has long been associated with wealth, commerce, and culture. Today, it continues to be one of the most dynamic gathering points in the city.

The square’s centerpiece is the towering Melville Monument, built in honor of Henry Dundas, an influential—though controversial—political figure. Around it, you’ll find green lawns perfect for relaxing, buzzing cafés, and some of Edinburgh’s finest shopping and dining experiences just steps away on George Street and Princes Street.

St. Andrew Square is not only a beautiful public garden but also a place where history and modernity meet. It offers visitors a unique chance to explore the city’s Georgian past, enjoy a tranquil pause in the middle of the bustling city, and use it as a perfect base to explore nearby attractions.

What is St. Andrew Square in Edinburgh famous for?

St. Andrew Square is famous for being a central landmark of Edinburgh’s New Town, known for the Melville Monument, its Georgian architecture, and its role as a hub for finance, shopping, and dining.

Why should you visit St. Andrew Square?

You should visit St. Andrew Square if you want to:

Relax in a beautifully maintained public garden.

See the impressive Melville Monument.

Experience a historic square surrounded by Georgian townhouses and modern shops.

Use it as a starting point for exploring the New Town’s highlights.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit St. Andrew Square?

The gardens of St. Andrew Square are open daily from early morning until dusk.

Best time to visit: Spring and summer, when the flowers are in bloom, or early evening for a calm atmosphere after shopping or sightseeing.

How much does it cost to visit St. Andrew Square?

Visiting St. Andrew Square is completely free. The gardens are open to the public, making it an accessible and relaxing stop for everyone.

What can you see or do at St. Andrew Square?

When you visit St. Andrew Square, you can:

Admire the Melville Monument, standing 150 feet tall.

Explore the lush gardens and enjoy a peaceful retreat.

Take in the surrounding Georgian architecture that reflects Edinburgh’s New Town elegance.

Enjoy nearby cafés and restaurants, from casual bites to fine dining.

Use the square as a hub to reach George Street, Princes Street, or Multrees Walk for luxury shopping.

What is the history behind St. Andrew Square?

St. Andrew Square was one of the first parts of Edinburgh’s New Town, designed in the 18th century by James Craig. It quickly became a fashionable address for the wealthy elite. The most striking feature, the Melville Monument, was erected in 1821 to honor Henry Dundas, a controversial political figure known as “the uncrowned king of Scotland.”

Over time, the square transitioned from private residences to financial institutions, with many banks and insurance companies establishing their headquarters here. In 2008, the square’s gardens were opened to the public for the first time in over 200 years, transforming it into a lively and accessible urban green space.

Where is St. Andrew Square located and how do you get there?

📍 Location: St. Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH2 2AD.

How to get there:

🚶 On foot: A short walk from Princes Street and Waverley Station.

🚆 By train: Edinburgh Waverley Station is less than 5 minutes away.

🚌 By bus or tram: Numerous Lothian Buses stop at the square, and the Edinburgh Tram terminus is right here.

Insider Tips for Visiting St. Andrew Square

🧺 Grab a takeaway coffee or lunch and enjoy it in the gardens—it’s a favorite spot for locals.

📸 For great photos, capture the Melville Monument with the surrounding Georgian façades.

🛍️ Combine your visit with shopping on George Street or Multrees Walk nearby.

Nearby Attractions to St. Andrew Square in Edinburgh

Scott Monument – A Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott, just down Princes Street.

Princes Street Gardens – A stunning park with views of Edinburgh Castle.

The Georgian House – Step back in time to 18th-century New Town life.

Edinburgh Playhouse – A short walk to one of the UK’s largest theatres.

National Portrait Gallery of Scotland – A treasure trove of art and history nearby.

Turn Your Visit into an Adventure

St. Andrew Square is more than just a garden—it’s a window into Edinburgh’s New Town history and a perfect base for exploring the city’s culture, shopping, and architecture.

With Questo, you can transform your stroll through St. Andrew Square and the New Town into an interactive quest. Solve clues, unlock stories, and uncover the fascinating layers of history hidden in this elegant part of Edinburgh.

👉 Download the Questo app and start your adventure at St. Andrew Square today!