New College Edinburgh
Academic, religious and political
New College, the spikey looking building overlooking Princes Street is often photographed by tourists but I'm not sure how many know what it's used for. Even most locals only enter the building in August when it's used as venues for the Festivals. However, I spent four years in the building while I studied at the University of Edinburgh.
Designed by William Henry Playfair, one of Edinburgh's most famous architects, the building was opened in 1846 as the college for the Free Church of Scotland. Since the 1930s it has been home to the School of Divinity for the University of Edinburgh.
As well as the University the building also houses the General Assembly (the highest council) of the Church of Scotland (the national presbyterian church).
It was also home to the Scottish Parliament when it reopened in 1999. The Parliament moved out to its new home at the bottom of the Royal Mile in 2004.
As well as academic, religious and political uses the building has also been a location for many movies. The most famous is probably Chariots of Fire, the 1981 film about Olympian Eric Liddell, himself a graduate of the University.
While you are at New College keep an eye out for the plaque commemorating John Witherspoon, another Edinburgh graduate. He studied Divinity at the University (although not in New College) before emigrating to the USA where he became the president of Princeton University and one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.
Find your way with 138 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Edinburgh
S. Luca
Ice cream and sweet treats
"S. Luca" has been one of my favorite places in Edinburgh since I was a kid. What they're famous for is their own brand of ice cream - and I love it!
by
Catriona
Laxton
Green. Leith
Plant shop with social mission
"Green. Leith" is a refreshing and colourful addition to the well-known street in Edinburgh. They really take green plants & accessories to a new level!
by
Sarah
Mackenzie
Muschat's Cairn
Gory history under rocks
I have to confess I've walked past the spot thousands of times before I actually realised it was anything to pay attention to!
by
Fiona
Diack
Leith Victoria Swim Centre
An architectural gem
The "Leith Victoria Swim Centre" in Edinburgh is a beautiful pool surrounded by an ornade, Baroque, cast-iron colonnade. Well worth a visit!
by
Tamsin
Grainger
Pickles
Cosy wine bar
"Pickles" is a tiny wee wine bar in Edinburgh. The bar has a rustic Scottish feel to it, but the main reason I like it is their cheese and wine...
by
Fiona
Diack
Union Brew Lab
A unique coffee experience
"Union Brew Lab" Edinburgh is one of the original hipster coffee shops in the city. JK Rowling hasn't written a book here yet!
by
Fiona
Diack
Manna House Bakery
Incredible bakery/eatery
"Manna House Bakery" in South Queensferry in Edinburgh has great views over the Forth Rail Bridge. Come here for the super value-for-money homemade food!
by
Mark
Gorman
Craiglockhart Hill
The overlooked hill
Craiglockhart Hill is one of Edinburgh's 7 hills. In contrast to Calton Hill, Castle Hill and Arthur's Seat, even many locals can't name this one!
by
Fiona
Diack
Corstorphine Hill
Not just the zoo
The zoo is one of Edinburgh's most popular tourist attractions. Next to it is "Corstorphine Hill" that's in my opinion much more interesting to explore!
by
Fiona
Diack
The Royal Oak
A folk music institution
"The Royal Oak" is the beating heart of Edinburgh's traditional music scene. This is a gem of a pub to visit, and I like coming on Friday/Saturday night.
by
Alasdair
MacQuarrie
Heading to Edinburgh?
138 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Edinburgh?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 138 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Edinburgh
Get to know our other Spotters from Edinburgh
As featured on:
