Inverleith, New Town and Fountainbridge are three charming and vibrant neighborhoods in Edinburgh that offer an abundance of different activities, attractions and places to explore. Inverleith is situated in the city centre with a rich cultural and historical history and a variety of green parks and gardens with majestic views across the city. New Town is known for its impressive 18th century Georgian architecture, traditional pubs and lively nightlife. Fountainbridge is a modern area with lots of trendy bars and restaurants, as well as famous places such as the Scotch Whisky Experience.
1. Parks and places for a walk on a first date
Inverleith Park is the ideal spot for a romantic stroll on a first date. This expansive park boasts beautiful gardens, a large lake and plenty of lush green spaces to take a leisurely walk and admire the scenery. The Royal Botanic Garden is another great option to explore, with opportunities to learn about plants and wildlife. New Town is home to Calton Hill which offers spectacular views over the city skyline and is a popular place to admire the sunset. Alternatively, Arthur’s Seat is another picturesque spot to go for a romantic stroll past the ruins and look out over the city.
2. Places for a coffee date in Inverleith, New Town and Fountainbridge
Inverleith offers a great selection of independent cafes to enjoy a cup of coffee and chat over cake. The Edinburgh Larder is a charming cafe serving delicious snacks with a great selection of hot and cold drinks. The Milkman is another cosy spot for a coffee date that serves a selection of light snacks and speciality coffees. In New Town, Hula Juice Bar is a great option for a caffeine hit and smoothies, while the Scottish Cafe and Restaurant is a relaxed spot with beautiful views of Princes Street Gardens. Fountainbridge has a few gems of its own including the compact but delightful Leakey’s Bookshop and Coffeehouse and the beautifully decorated Milnes Bar and Grill.
3. Galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Inverleith is a great place for culture vultures, with a selection of galleries and museums to explore. The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and the National Gallery of Scotland are great places to admire fine art, while the Royal Scottish Academy and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery are must-sees for art lovers. The National Museum of Scotland and the National War Museum are also great places to learn more about the history of the area. New Town has the Storytelling Centre which is a great spot to learn about Scotland’s rich culture and share stories. For a unique date experience, why not visit the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions which has interactive exhibits on the five senses and offers spectacular views of the city.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Inverleith, New Town and Fountainbridge
Inverleith is known for its lively music scene, with The Voodoo Rooms and The Jazz Bar two popular venues for live music and entertainment. The Liquid Room is another great spot for a drink and listen to some live music, while The Stand Comedy Club is ideal for a night of laughs. New Town’s Queen's Hall is a popular venue for classical and contemporary concerts, while the Usher Hall offers a range of concerts to suit all tastes. Those looking for a romantic atmosphere can visit Le Monde, a stylish bar and restaurant that hosts live music events from DJs and singers. In Fountainbridge, the Jam House has a great selection of live music with a lively jazz and blues atmosphere.
5. Pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Inverleith is home to a selection of trendy bars and pubs to grab a drink or bite to eat. The Black Cat is a great spot for craft beers and cocktails, while the Bow Bar is a traditional pub serving an extensive selection of ales and whiskies. The Dome is an elegant bar and restaurant tucked away in New Town, offering a range of drinks and scrumptious food. The Brew Lab is the perfect spot for coffee and pastries, while La P’tite Folie is a chic French eatery offering contemporary cuisine. On the other hand, Fountainbridge has the gourmet restaurant Glow to impress your date with a delectable meal.
6. Other date ideas to try in Inverleith, New Town and Fountainbridge
Inverleith is a great place for a first date. Why
