Grassmarket (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Grassmarket?
What makes it 49% Baby-Friendly: Pram access is possible on the flat square, but steep lanes, cobblestones, crowded pubs and only one public loo with no changing table make feeding, changing and settling a baby inconvenient and tiring.
Positives:
- Stroller-friendly paving: Wide cobbled areas make it easy to push a pram around the square.
- Nearby seating: Benches and café chairs let you rest and feed your baby often.
- Compact layout: All key spots are a short walk apart, so you won’t over-tire little legs.
Challenges:
- Limited changing facilities: Only one public toilet in the square has no changing table; bring a portable mat.
- Crowded at peak times: Midday and early evening see more tourists, making it harder to navigate with a pram.
- Variable weather: The open square can be windy and wet; pack rain gear for you and the baby.
What is Grassmarket?
- A historic public square and sloping street in Edinburgh’s Old Town that served as a livestock and commodity market from the 15th to the 19th century
- Stone-built tenements and Georgian-era public houses forming a cohesive medieval streetscape beneath Edinburgh Castle
- A designated conservation zone within the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, preserving original cobbled surfaces and medieval street layout
What is so special about Grassmarket for with baby?
- Historic open square steps below the castle
- Easy stroller routes and nearby seating
- Weekend market stalls with local treats
- Baby-friendly cafés with space for prams
- Quick photo stop at Greyfriars Bobby statue
Note: Grassmarket is 49% Baby-Friendly. You may want to consider other Baby-Friendly Things to Do in Edinburgh for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 1-3 hours
Why 1-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Gives time to stroll the square, pause at cafés, and let your baby rest without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Grassmarket
Browse Grassmarket Market:
Stalls sell local crafts, fresh produce, and snacks in a stroller-friendly layout.
Tip: Visit on Saturdays to catch street food and artisan goods; secure your stroller near a stall you like.
Relax in West Port Garden:
Small green space just off the square with benches and lawn space.
Tip: Bring a blanket for your baby to crawl on and sit on a bench for a quick feeding break.
Photo at Greyfriars Bobby Statue:
Short walk from the square to see the loyal dog’s bronze statue.
Tip: Hold your baby safely while posing and avoid busy times when tour groups arrive.
Coffee Saints Café:
Bright, spacious café with wide entrances ideal for prams.
Tip: Ask staff about a quiet corner for nursing; try their baby-friendly snacks.
Hula Breakfast Café:
Walk-in brunch spot with indoor/outdoor seating and stroller access.
Tip: Arrive early on weekends to secure a table with space for your pram.
When is the best time to visit Grassmarket (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Edinburgh weather changes fast: bring a waterproof pram cover and dress your baby in layers. In summer the market has extra stalls; in winter the square can be icy.
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Reviews of Grassmarket (Edinburgh)
anshu arora
Just love this beautiful flower corner of Grassmarket with the Castle View. Visited 1000s of times but still like to spend some quality time here.
Waqas Ali
Great place for food and amazing castle view. Very lively place with a great vibe.
Lauren Lang
Great place for food, drinks and to catch up with people. Beautiful view of the castle too
Konstantinos Barlas
A good place to have fun, eat, drink.
Buck List
I just love this part of Edinburgh plenty of food options, quirky shops vintage unique traditional. Definately the place to be.
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Coffee & pastry for two adults | GBP 12 |
| Light lunch for two adults | GBP 30 |
| Market souvenirs | GBP 15 |
| Public toilet fees | GBP 0.6 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 57.6 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Grassmarket
- Early start: Visit before 10 AM to beat crowds and find the best stroller spots.
- Portable changing kit: Carry a foldable mat and wipes for quick nappy changes.
- Advance café check: Call ahead to cafés to confirm highchair and pram access.
Map of Grassmarket
Address: Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1, UK
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