Grassmarket
On Gingerguide's self-guided Edinburgh audio tour, Grassmarket is a stop worth about ~45 min. Stand in front of it, press play for a short narrated story, and put any follow-up question to the built-in AI guide.
- Type market
- Suggested visit ~45 min
- Edinburgh Edinburgh guide
About Grassmarket
A historic marketplace beneath Edinburgh Castle, once the site of public executions and now a vibrant hub of pubs and restaurants.
The Grassmarket is a historic market square in Edinburgh's Old Town, lying at the foot of the southern slope of Castle Rock. For centuries it served as Edinburgh's main market for cattle and grain, and also as the city's principal site for public executions. A small circular garden marks the spot where the gallows once stood. Today it is one of Edinburgh's most popular social hubs, packed with independent shops, pubs, and restaurants, with spectacular views up to the castle.
Did you know? Maggie Dickson survived her own hanging in 1724 and lived another 40 years, she was legally freed since the death sentence had been "carried out."
How much time do you need at Grassmarket?
Around ~45 min works well for Grassmarket — time to look properly and listen to its story on the spot. Linger if you like; nothing on a self-guided walk is on a clock.
Should you stop at Grassmarket?
Yes — Grassmarket made the cut as one of 26 places the Gingerguide team researched and narrated across Edinburgh. The story tells you why it is worth the stop, and the AI guide fills in anything you still wonder.
Nearby stops in Edinburgh
Hear the story of Grassmarket
Preview the Edinburgh tour free in the Gingerguide app.