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A detailed guide on getting to Edinburgh Vaults

Where do Edinburgh Vaults tours start from?

Address: 300 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2PH

Located in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, near the Royal Mile, the Edinburgh Vaults tours begin at 300 Lawnmarket and conclude at 45 Niddry Street, offering convenient access to nearby points of interest.

Closest landmark: St. Giles’ Cathedral, 350 m away

Getting to the Edinburgh Vaults by public transport

  • Travel time: About 5–10 minutes from Edinburgh city centre (e.g., Princes Street or Waverley area)
  • Closest stop: Victoria Street or Museum of Childhood, both a short walk from the vaults
  • Timings: Frequent local services throughout the day

Multiple Lothian Buses routes serve stops just a few minutes’ walk from South Bridge Vaults. Routes such as 3, 35, and 36 stop near Victoria Street or Museum of Childhood, putting you close to the entrance.

  • Travel time: About 10 minutes on foot from Edinburgh Waverley Station
  • Closest station: Edinburgh Waverley
  • Timings: Trains run throughout the day from across the UK

Exit Waverley Station and walk southwest along Market Street and South Bridge to reach the vaults. This flat, city centre walk takes around ten minutes.

  • Travel time: 10–15 minutes by tram plus 10–15 minutes’ walk
  • Closest tram stop: Princes Street or St Andrew Square tram stops
  • Timings: Trams operate from early morning until late at night

Take Edinburgh Trams to Princes Street or St. Andrew Square, then walk downhill through the city centre to reach the vaults. The walk from the tram stops is roughly 10–15 minutes.

  • Travel time: 5–10 minutes from central Edinburgh
  • Closest drop‑off: South Bridge or Cowgate area, near the vaults' entrance

Black cabs and ride‑hail services like Uber and Bolt operate widely. Ask the driver to stop at South Bridge for the shortest walk to the vaults' entrance.

Getting to the Edinburgh Vaults by car

Driving route

  • Travel time: 5–15 mins from Edinburgh city centre, depending on traffic
  • Distance: 1–2 km from the city centre
  • Routes: Fastest via A7; the route via Market Street is usually crowded

Parking facilities

On-site parking is not available at the Edinburgh Vaults, and street parking nearby can be difficult to find.

Nearby parking lots within walking distance include:

  • Edinburgh Central Travelodge Car Park (St Mary’s St) – 6 min walk
  • Q-Park Quartermile—10 min walk
  • New Street Car Park – 15 min walk

Parking in central Edinburgh is often restricted and can be expensive. Pay-and-display street parking is limited and controlled.

Cycling / Walking to Edinburgh Vaults

  • Best for: Scenic sightseeing, active travellers
  • Travel time: Walk for about 15 minutes / Cycle for roughly 7 minutes
  • Distance: 1 mile from Edinburgh city centre

Walking from Edinburgh city centre to the Edinburgh Vaults is a delightful way to explore the heart of Old Town. Stroll along the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile, pass historic buildings and charming cafés, and soak in the city’s medieval atmosphere. Cycling is a quick and convenient alternative along the same route, making it a fun option for active travellers.

Compare your travel options

Mode of transportTravel timeEstimated costBest for

Bus

5–10 mins

£1.80–£2.00 single fare

Quick, convenient for short trips

Cycling

7 mins

Free (own bike) / £2–£5 (short-term rental)

Active travellers, scenic route through Old Town

Car / Ride-hail

5–15 mins

£5–£15 depending on traffic

Comfort and flexible timing

Walking

15 mins

Free

Scenic exploration, historic streets and architecture

Frequently asked questions about getting to the Edinburgh Vaults

The most direct way from the city centre is on foot—it's about a 10–15 minute walk from Princes Street or Waverley Station through Old Town. Buses also stop within a short walk of the Vaults entrance.