7 Reasons to Visit Victoria Street Edinburgh

Victoria Street is one of Edinburgh’s most beautiful streets, a winding ribbon of tumbling cobblestones punctuated by colored buildings. This famous region is a mosaic of history, like all areas of Scotland, with its historic stone facades and charming old-world feel serving as a constant reminder of the past. Explore the gems that adorn this charming street, from the historical allure to the independent stores.

The allure of history is unmatched.

The masterpiece of architect Thomas Hamilton, who is responsible for Edinburgh’s network of neo-classical wonders, Victoria Street was constructed between 1829 and 1834. The West Bow, a troublesome z-shaped slither of a terrifyingly steep lane that provided access, albeit difficult, from the Grassmarket area to Castlehill, was replaced by the street, which was constructed to take its place as one of the city’s main thoroughfares. When Hamilton intervened, the majority of the West Bow was destroyed. Once more, before Queen Victoria ascended to the throne in 1837, Victoria Street was known as Bow Street.

Edinburgh’s version of Diagon Alley

Why wouldn’t it be? Edinburgh is well-known as a Harry Potter pilgrimage site because JK Rowling wrote the Harry Potter books there, in Scotland’s capital. It’s not surprising that Victoria Street served as the model for the incredibly fabulous Diagon Alley given its eclectic collection of colorful buildings, shops of all shapes and sizes, notable arches, cobblestones, and general air of eccentricity.

The Influence of 40 Victoria Street Continues

Victoria Street now has its very own Ollivanders in the form of Diagon House, a magical emporium selling authorized Harry Potter merchandise and fantastical finds made by local artisans. Before it became a Hogwarts building, Robert Cresser’s Brush Shop was a well-known landmark at 40 Victoria Street. This Dickensian store was open from 1873 until 2004 and sold everything in between, from bagpipe cleaners to chimney sweeps. a meritorious feat.

Thoughts on that architecture

Its distinctive charm and allure are greatly influenced by the eclectic mix of colorful buildings. As part of the city’s 1827 Improvement Act, Thomas Hamilton demolished the old West Bow to facilitate travel throughout the Old Town. He was given instructions to imitate Old Flemish architecture rather than his usual neo-classical stamp on Victoria Street. Many of the medieval structures were destroyed during construction, and the distinctive arches lining the new terrace were converted into shops.

Numerous Independent Stores

Victoria Street’s arcade of independent stores is responsible for much of its unique charm. Think of the Old Town Bookshop’s towering stacks of literary greats, I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger’s artisanal cheeses, Swish’s stylish goods, and the Red Door Gallery’s glowing local art prints. Hours can be wasted admiring the custom products from these impressive local companies.

Aha Ha Ha!

Aha Ha Ha, a Victoria Street staple and a favorite in Edinburgh, is a hive of hilarity and nonstop chitchat. The store’s garish red exterior, complete with enormous mustache, nose, and glasses, stands out like a sore thumb and gives the already vibrant neighborhood a completely new layer of personality. They are stocked to the gills with card tricks, magic accessories, costumes, and masks.

You Say It’s A Wizard?

The Wizard of the West Bow was a famous resident before Victoria Street was built. Major Weir, also known as Angelical Thomas, was adored as a virtuous man and a supporter of society. However, time soon discovered his true intentions, and Major Weir was put on trial for abhorrent crimes like necromancy and sinister supernatural pursuits. The newly named Wizard of the West Bow was put to death for witchcraft in 1670 after being admitted to the lot. His home, which was destroyed when Victoria Street was constructed, was abandoned for an entire century. Locals reportedly thought it to be haunted.

Topic: 7 Reasons to Visit Victoria Street Edinburgh

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By: Travel Pixy