How to Find the Old Stockbridge Market Arch in Edinburgh

If you’re looking for some gorgeous Instagram-worthy places in Edinburgh, then you must visit the Old Stockbridge Market Arch.

This ancient facade was the entrance to the old Stockbridge Market from the 19th century. 

Although the market is no longer running, this historic monument has had a resurgence as a popular photography location.

Finding this archway can be a little complicated as it’s not actually anywhere near the new ‘Stockbridge Market’ pins on any online maps. 

So, in this post, I’ll give you some detailed instructions on how to find it while you’re in Edinburgh.

Old Stockbridge Market history 

The Stockbridge district is now an extremely affluent neighbourhood in Edinburgh.

You’ll find all sorts of art galleries, expensive flats, and boutiques that line the streets.

But in the 19th century, it was on the northern outskirts of the city centre and was completely different. 

Stockbridge gained its name from the planks of timber that used to form a bridge over the Water of Leith.

In 1825, Archibald Scott was commissioned to construct a market hall.

He built an entranceway with an oil lamp to light the way between St Stephen’s and Hamilton Place. 

As the archway suggests, the market used to sell ‘Butcher Meat, Fruits, Fish and Poultry’. Almost like an open-air abattoir. Can you imagine the smell?

It was for that reason that the market closed its doors in 1906 after running for 75 years.

There were too many complaints from residents about the noise and foul smells.

Unfortunately, any evidence of that once great building has now been destroyed. It’s only this gorgeous archway that remains.

It’s now Category B listed, which means it’s a protected monument.

Stockbridge Market today 

You may be surprised to know that this ancient archway is nowhere near the modern Stockbridge Market.

When I was on my early morning mission to take photos of the city, I made the mistake of following the ‘Stockbridge Market’ pin on Google Maps. 

I arrived at that location, and I knew instantly I was in the wrong place.

Nothing resembled this archway at all. I must have walked around in so many circles to locate it.

In the end, I asked a local for directions, and they kindly pointed me to the right location.

I’m so glad I did, as it’s tucked away on a street corner and slightly hard to find. So, I’ll provide directions below.

How to find the Original Stockbridge Market Arch

The Old Stockbridge Market Archway is on St Stephen’s Place in the Stockbridge neighbourhood of Edinburgh.

If you were to walk under the archway and follow the pathway, it would lead you to Hamilton Place.

The easiest way to access this archway is on foot, as it’s near another gorgeous photography spot called Circus Lane.

You’ll need to first head down St Stephen’s Road. Then, you’ll see a small side street called St Stephen’s Place.

You can easily get a bus to Stockbridge. There is a bus stop on Hamilton Place or Kerr Street.

Old Stockbridge Arch opening times 

The great thing about this photography location is that it’s actually open 24 hours a day. It’s also completely free to visit.

So, you can pop by anytime to take photos. This is perfect for photographers who want that soft, early morning light. 

What is the best time to visit?

If you would like to get some photos without people in them, I would always recommend getting up early in the morning.

I got to this location around 7 am in June and found it was quiet at that time.

It was a good job, as I needed to set up my tripod on the road to get these photos by myself. 

Photography tips

It’s hard to get a bad photo of this place. The archway is stunning and makes a fantastic capture.

But here are some handy photography tips; 

• You’ll be done in around five minutes. I recommend combining a visit with Dean Village or Circus Lane.

• Remember this is a residential estate and shopping area. So, respect privacy.

• Cars use St Stephen’s Road. But the side street has double yellow lines.

• This is a regular commuter route and walking route in the city. So, if you want photos alone, get here early.

Instagrammable places in Edinburgh

The Old Stockbridge Market Arch is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to gorgeous photography locations in Edinburgh. 

It’s one of my favourite cities to photograph, and you’ll find inspiration on every street corner.

You have the Royal Mile with its many courtyards and wynds. The gorgeous Dean Village and quaint streets like Circus Lane.

There are also marvellous viewpoints like Calton Hill and many historic castles.

I have created a long list of gorgeous photography locations in Edinburgh. This also includes some restaurant locations too. 

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