Best Photo Locations in Edinburgh: Exact Spots, Best Light & Rain-Proof Plans

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By Love Wedding Photos & Film — locals with 700+ weddings under our belt and an unreasonable amount of love for this city.

This guide to the best photo locations in Edinburgh is for couples checking our photography from beautiful Edinburgh weddings, families and travellers who want a wow-factor experience without the stress. For every location, we’ve included the exact spot, the best time of day, a quick plan for crowds, and a wet-weather plan that you can use on the day.

Best photo locations in Edinburgh, a couple stands close together in the centre of a brick tunnel decorated with murals, including a rainbow and birds, under overhead lights.

TL;DR: Quick Planner

Got questions? Jump to the FAQ ↓

Pro‑tip: In summer (BST), sunrise shoots are insanely good for empty streets. In winter, blue hour (just after sunset) gives moody cinematic light.

Map of the Best Photo Locations in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Photo Spots

Locations on this map

Old Town Icons

1) The Vennel Steps (Castle postcard view)

Exact spot: Top landing of the Vennel, looking north to the Castle.

Best time: Golden hour into blue hour. The lamps come on, the sky goes cobalt, and the castle glows — chef’s kiss.

How we shoot it: Start at the top, step down 1–2 flights for a tighter frame, a wide environmental shot and a closer crop embracing headshot.

Crowd hack: Arrive ~15 minutes before sunset; let tour groups pass, then shoot between waves.

Rain plan: Duck to Grassmarket arcades or West Bow closes. Reflections on wet cobbles look amazing.

Real example photos of the best photo locations in Edinburgh at the Vennel:

  • A street sign reads "Vennel Leading to Brown’s Place," partially covered with various stickers and graffiti, mounted on a stone wall.
  • A couple stands outdoors in front of a historic stone building, holding hands and smiling at each other on a cloudy day.
  • A couple stands close together, holding hands and posing outdoors with a large historic castle on a hill in the background.
  • A bride in a white gown and a groom in a kilt pose together on a stone path, with Edinburgh Castle visible in the background.
  • A bride and groom hold hands and smile at each other outdoors, with a castle on a hill in the background.
  • A bride and groom in wedding attire stand facing each other outdoors, with Edinburgh Castle visible in the background.
  • A bride in a white gown and a groom in a black jacket and green tartan kilt stand holding hands in front of a stone wall.
  • A bride and groom stand under a clear umbrella in the rain, smiling at each other outdoors on their wedding day.
  • A bride and groom stand closely under a clear umbrella in the rain, smiling, with historic stone buildings and greenery in the background.

2) Royal Mile + Characterful Closes

Exact spots: Advocates Close (New Town background framed in background), Byre's Close (meandering line), Milne's Court (stone steps).

Best time: Early morning or after 7pm. Weekday evenings outside festival dates are bliss.

How we shoot it: Classic “walking the cobbles” wide, intimate framed‑by‑arch portraits, plus candids set in a close.

Rain plan: The closes provide real cover. We lean into moody textures, umbrellas and puddle reflections.

Real example photos of the best photo locations in Edinburgh at the Royal Mile closes:

  • A couple stands facing each other in a narrow alleyway; the man wears a kilt and jacket, and the woman wears a white suit with a floral headpiece.
  • A couple stands facing each other under an archway labeled "Advocate's Close" as blurred pedestrians walk past on a rainy street.
  • A couple stands embracing under an archway labeled "Advocate's Close"; the man wears a kilt and the woman is dressed in a white suit.
  • A man in a kilt and a woman in a white suit stand holding hands under a stone archway labeled "Milne's Court" in an old alleyway.
  • An overhead view of a man kissing a smiling woman on the cheek as they embrace, standing on a stone surface.
  • A woman in a white coat and a man in traditional Scottish attire sit together on stone steps under an archway labeled "Milne's Court.

Skyline + Wild‑Edinburgh Energy

3) Calton Hill (Acropolis vibes)

Exact spots: Dugald Stewart Monument terrace, Observatory path towards the City Observatory, Arthur's Seat viewpoint.

Best time: Sunrise to beat crowds, or golden hour for a warm skyline.

Wind note: It’s breezy. Choose fitted outfits or layers that move well.

Crowd hack: Step 10–20m off the monument terrace for the same skyline with fewer people.

Rain plan: Scottish National Gallery portico / Waverley Arches (covered) within a 10‑minute walk.

Real example photos of the best photo locations in Edinburgh at Calton Hill:

  • Two people walk on a grassy hill beneath leafless trees with long shadows, under a clear blue sky. A column structure is partially visible on the right.
  • A bride and groom stand together on a grassy hill, with historic stone buildings and a clock tower in the background under a cloudy sky.
  • Two men stand between stone columns; one kisses the other on the temple while both face forward.
  • Three people sit on large stone steps, all wearing black tops and red tartan kilts; two adults flank a child in the middle. Trees are visible in the background.
  • Jake and Kelly - Marriage Proposal Calton Hill, Edinburgh
  • Two people sit on a black metal bench outdoors, one resting their head on the other's shoulder, facing away toward a blurred landscape of hills.

4) Arthur’s Seat & Holyrood Park (wild hearts)

Exact spots: Salisbury Crags view (epic cityscape without a full hike), St. Anthony’s Chapel ruins, St Margaret's Loch (lots of birds, particularly swans).

Best time: Sunrise or last light. Avoid high winds; lower paths are magic.

Footwear: Wear grippy shoes, as the paths can be dusty or slick.

Rain plan: Old Town closes / Dynamic Earth canopy 10-15 minutes away.

Real example photos of the best photo locations in Edinburgh at Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park:

  • Ginni and Henry at St Anthony's Chapel
  • A bride and groom stand in an embrace under the archway of a ruined stone tower, with a dramatic sky overhead.
  • Sonya and Kordell engagement photography at St Anthony's Chapel Holyrood Park
  • A woman in a white wedding dress stands on a rocky hilltop overlooking a cityscape, her curly hair blowing in the wind.
  • photographers-edinbugh-arthurs-seat
  • trash the dress photographer image of a bride and groom standing on a rocky hilltop with cityscape in the background, holding hands as the wind blows the bride’s dress and hair.
  • Arthurs Seat - Jon and Mandy
  • A bride and groom holding hands and smiling, standing outdoors with an old stone structure in the background and greenery in the foreground.

New Town Charm

5) Circus Lane (the Instagram mews)

Exact spot: The soft bend mid‑lane with St Stephen’s spire in the background, or the reverse angle for epic greenery

Best time: Early morning. Respect residents: keep voices low, don’t block doorways, be swift.

How we shoot it: A wide establishing frame, then door‑detail portraits and a tighter telephoto towards the spire.

Rain plan: Stockbridge Market arch / covered doorways / The Dene Bridge (see 6, below)

Real example photos of the best photo locations in Edinburgh at Circus Lane:

  • A couple in wedding attire walks hand in hand down a cobblestone street lined with stone buildings and greenery.
  • A bride and groom walk arm in arm along a cobblestone path, the groom in a light gray suit and the bride in a white dress with a veil.
  • A couple stands and smiles at each other in an outdoor setting, both dressed formally; the man in a grey suit and the woman in a white dress. The background shows greenery and buildings.
  • A couple in wedding attire, with the groom in a kilt and the bride in a white dress, walk hand-in-hand on a cobblestone street lined with greenery.
  • A man kisses a smiling woman on the cheek as they embrace on a cobblestone street lined with greenery and houses.
  • A bride in a white dress and a groom in a kilt hold hands and stand on a cobblestone street lined with townhouses and greenery.

6) Dean Village & Water of Leith (storybook)

Exact spots: Dean Bridge overlook (from The Dean Bridge Viewpoint), Damside by the weir, path under the bridge for shelter.

Best time: Morning or overcast light for even tones.

Crowd hack: Mid‑week mornings. Step off the bridge to quieter angles at river level.

Rain plan: Under Dean Bridge arch / St Bernard’s Well shelter, The Dene at St Bernard's Bridge.

Real example photos of the best photo locations in Edinburgh at Dean Village and Water of Leith:

  • A couple stands facing each other under a stone archway in an outdoor setting with trees and a gate visible in the background.
  • Two men walking down stone steps outside, smiling with their arms around each other's shoulders.
  • A man and woman stand together by a black metal railing overlooking a river, with greenery in the background. The man is embracing the woman from behind and both are smiling.
  • A man and woman sit together on outdoor stone steps, posing closely for a photo. The steps are bordered by stone railings and surrounded by weathered stone walls.
  • A man and woman pose together on stone steps in front of a wooden door and stone wall; the man leans casually while the woman stands in front.
  • Two people stand closely together, smiling on a small bridge over a stream surrounded by greenery and trees in a park-like setting.
  • A couple stands together on a metal footbridge surrounded by greenery, with residential buildings visible in the background.
  • A couple stands on a bridge, embracing and looking into each other's eyes, with greenery and buildings in the background.
  • Two men stand side by side, smiling and walking across a green metal bridge, with trees and a building in the background.

7) Princes Street Gardens & Ross Fountain

Exact spots: Ross Fountain with the Castle stacked behind; east gardens near the Scott Monument.

Best time: Golden hour or calm mornings. Avoid lunchtime when it’s busiest.

Rain plan: The Scottish National Gallery portico is just 5 minutes away, or explore the Old Town arches and closes.

Real example photos of the best photo locations in Edinburgh at Princes Street Gardens and Ross Fountain:

  • Princes Street Gardens couple photos for Michelle and Jamie
  • A bride and groom kissing outdoors with a castle on a hill in the background.
  • A couple kisses in the rain with a blurred castle in the background.
  • A man kneels to propose to a woman in front of a decorative fountain, with a historic castle on a hill in the background.
  • A bride and groom dressed in wedding attire hold hands and walk outside, both smiling and looking at each other. The bride holds a bouquet of flowers. Stairs and trees are visible in the background.
  • The Scotsman Hotel wedding photographer: A man and woman holding hands, smiling at each other, standing outdoors with a historic building in the background.
  • A man and woman sitting on stairs with a stone building in the background.
  • Two men in traditional Scottish attire share an affectionate moment outdoors, with one wrapping his arm around the other. They stand close, smiling at each other. A historic building is in the background.
  • A couple embraces in a park near a Gothic-style monument and historic buildings. The woman wears a pink dress and the man is in a black suit.

Use our photos from: City weddings featuring the fountain. [Add gallery block]

Waterfront + Big‑Sky

8) South Queensferry & the Forth Bridge

Exact spots: Hawes Pier facing the Rail Bridge; steps down to the waterline for reflections.

Best time: Sunset into blue hour.

Tide note: Check tide times for foreground rocks/reflections.

Rain plan: Under the pier arches or nearby, stroll along the coastal path under the trees of Dalmeny Estate.

Real example photos of the best photo locations in Edinburgh at South Queensferry and the Forth Bridge:

  • A man and woman sit on rocks with two dogs in front of a large railway bridge over water, under a blue sky with clouds.
  • A person gives another person a piggyback ride on a rocky outdoor path, both smiling and dressed in casual clothes and boots. Trees and rocks are in the background.
  • A couple stands on a rocky shore with two dogs, with a large red railway bridge spanning the water in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
  • A couple stands closely together on grass by the water, with a large red steel bridge in the background.
  • A smiling couple stands on a stone pier by the water, with the Forth Bridge visible in the background under a blue sky.
  • A woman and man sit on rocks with a beagle dog in front of a large red bridge over water, under a cloudy sky.
  • A couple poses together outdoors in formal attire, with the Forth Bridge in the background. The person on the right is wearing a kilt.
  • A couple in wedding attire dances on a wet pavement near a large red steel bridge over a body of water on a cloudy day.
  • A couple stands close together by a stone wall outdoors; the woman in a white dress smiles at the man in a black suit.

9) Cramond Beach (sunrise serenity)

Exact spots: Along the promenade, sitting at the dock or walking along the causeway for leading lines.

Best time: Sunrise is calm, pastel and quiet even in summer.

Wind note: Bring a cosy layer. Wind + sand = texture and movement.

Rain plan: Along the path by the River Almond; embrace brollies and motion.

Real example photos of the best photo locations in Edinburgh at Cramond:

  • A man and a woman pose together on a cloudy beach; the woman is seated on a rock while the man stands beside her, holding her hand.
  • A man and woman in jackets embrace and smile at the camera while standing outdoors near a river with trees in the background.
  • A newlywed couple stands on a stone pier by the water, the groom in a kilt and the bride in a white dress, facing each other under a blue sky.
  • A man and a woman stand against a mossy stone wall, holding hands and smiling at each other. Both wear winter jackets, jeans, and casual shoes.
  • A bride in a white dress and a groom in a kilt sit on a stone wall, holding hands, with greenery in the background.
  • A man gives a woman a piggyback ride on a sandy beach, both are smiling and dressed in casual winter clothing.
  • A bride and groom walk hand in hand beside a river with docked boats, the groom in a kilt and the bride holding a bouquet, with trees in the background.
  • Two people sit on a stone ledge outdoors, with a cloudy sky and distant landscape in the background. The man has his arm around the woman.
  • A man and a woman walk hand in hand along a stone path by the sea on a cloudy day.

Rain‑Proof Favourites (Indoors or Covered)

10) City Chambers Quadrangle (arches + elegance)

Exact spots: Under the arches, the centre of the courtyard, numerous closes off the Royal Mile.

Why it works: Beautiful light, classical stone, and it’s covered — ideal for elopements and micro‑weddings.

Real example photos of the best photo locations in Edinburgh at City Chambers:

  • A couple is walking hand in hand through a stone corridor. The man is wearing a light blue suit, and the woman is wearing a short white dress, holding a small bouquet of flowers.
  • A couple stands facing each other under the arches in front of the entrance to a stone building labeled "City Chambers." The area is paved with cobblestones, and bicycles are parked nearby.
  • A couple dressed in wedding attire embraces under the archways of a historic stone building.
  • A couple stands facing each other, embrace, and smile between two stone pillars in front of a wooden door. The man wears a suit, and the woman is dressed in a long white outfit.
  • A couple embracing and smiling outside the city chambers, with the bride in a white suit and the groom in a dark suit, standing next to a bouquet on the ground.
  • Bride and Groom looking at each other and laughing in front of wooden doors
  • A newlywed couple walks through a joyous crowd throwing confetti, with a historic building in the background.
  • newlyweds standing together at The Quadrant
  • A bride and groom holding hands and walking through a stone arcade with archways.

11) Old College Quad Cloisters (Old College Quadrangle) University of Edinburgh

Exact spots: The cloister walkways; the central quad for symmetry.

Note: Check access hours; be courteous to students/ceremonies.

Weather: Fully usable in rain.

Real example photos of the best photo locations in Edinburgh at old College Quad Cloisters:

  • A bride in a white gown and a groom in a kilt stand side by side on stone steps in front of a large building, posing for a wedding photo.
  • A bride in a white dress and a groom in a kilt and jacket walk hand in hand outside a stone building, looking at each other.
  • A bride in a white dress and a groom in a kilt hold hands and walk outside a historic stone building, smiling at each other.
  • A bride and groom stand together under a large stone archway, posing for a wedding photo in front of a historic building.
  • A bride and groom pose for a wedding photo in the courtyard of a grand historic building with a domed tower and stone architecture.
  • A bride in a white gown stands beside a groom in a suit and kilt, seated on stone steps in front of a large stone building.
  • A bride and groom stand facing each other under a large stone archway, holding hands, with the building’s stone facade visible behind them.
  • A bride in a white gown and a groom in a kilt pose together on stone steps in front of a historic building with large arches and stone columns.
  • A bride in a white dress and a groom in a kilt walk together along a stone sidewalk beside a historic building.

12) Colinton Tunnel (colour + shelter)

Exact spot: Mid‑tunnel murals for punchy colour and full cover. Also, the arches under Colinton New Bridge Viaduct are nearby.

Light tip: Aim for midday for even ambient light.

Real example photos of the best photo locations in Edinburgh at Colinton Tunnel:

  • A couple stands face to face in the middle of a mural-covered tunnel with a rainbow and animal paintings on the brick walls under overhead lights.
  • A man and woman hold hands and stand in front of a colorful mural featuring houses, trees, ducks, and a "Welcome to Govilon" sign.
  • A couple stands embracing and facing each other in the center of a dimly lit tunnel with brick walls and graffiti.
  • A man and a woman stand facing each other on a stone path next to a river, with trees and large stone structures on either side.
  • A person stands under a large stone archway surrounded by trees, with sunlight streaming through the opening.
  • Best photo locations in Edinburgh, a couple stands close together in the centre of a brick tunnel decorated with murals, including a rainbow and birds, under overhead lights.

Bonus Spots (mix + match)

  • Victoria Street — Colourful, curved street; go early.
  • Royal Mile Closes — Historic architecture in every frame.
  • St Bernard’s Well — Neoclassical temple; limited access but photogenic nearby.
  • Cramond Causeway — WW2 industrial pylons; only at low tide.

Permissions, Practicalities & Good Etiquette

  • Be kind to neighbours. Especially at Circus Lane and Dean Village — keep voices low, don’t block doorways, and skip super‑early noise on weekends.
  • Parks & hills: Light portrait sessions on public paths are usually fine; avoid blocking paths or setting up “mini events”.
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: Wedding/portrait sessions are by paid appointment with a steward. Book in advance.
  • Holyrood Park / Arthur’s Seat: Managed by Historic Environment Scotland. Commercial filming/photography can require prior permission — plan ahead for larger setups.
  • City centre streets: Small‑footprint portrait sessions on pavements are typically fine if you don’t cause obstruction. Avoid tripods at busy pinch‑points.
  • University & interiors: Old College/National Museum/New College can have access restrictions and may require permission/fees for commercial shoots.
  • Tides & weather: For Cramond and South Queensferry, we always check tide tables and wind forecasts when scheduling.

Good‑to‑go kit list: transparent brolly, microfiber cloth, hair grips, hand warmers (winter), comfy shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-shoot photo spots in Edinburgh?

These are the best photo locations in Edinburgh: Calton Hill, The Vennel, Royal Mile closes (Advocates/Bakehouse/Lady Stair’s), Circus Lane, Dean Village, Princes Street Gardens (Ross Fountain), Old College cloisters, City Chambers arches, South Queensferry (Forth Bridge), Portobello Beach, Colinton Tunnel, and Cramond Causeway (low tide).

When is the best time of day for photos?

Sunrise for empty streets and soft light; golden hour and blue hour for warmth and city glow. Midday is fine on overcast days or in covered/laneway locations.

What’s the best season for photos in Edinburgh?

All year. Spring = blossom and softer crowds. Summer = longest golden hours (earlier starts help). Autumn = colour and drama. Winter = moody blue hours and quieter streets.

How do we avoid crowds at busy spots like Circus Lane or the Vennel?

Go early (sunrise) or later (after 7pm outside festival dates), shoot between tour waves, and step 10–20m off the obvious viewpoint for the same backdrop with fewer people.

What if it rains on the day?

We lean into it: reflections, umbrellas and covered spots. Instant backups include City Chambers arches, Old College cloisters, Royal Mile closes, the Scottish National Gallery portico, The Dene Stockbridge, and Colinton Tunnel.

Do we need permits anywhere?

Small, unobtrusive street/park portraits are usually fine. Some places can require permission/fees (e.g., Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, certain University interiors, larger commercial setups in Holyrood Park/Arthur’s Seat). We advise on this when we plan your route.

Are drones allowed?

Generally restricted in central Edinburgh. We use an authorised small drone, meaning if you hire us, we can use our drone at most locations (including in the city centre) as long as we avoid large crowds and comply with CAA regulations. Use is subject to UK drone rules and local permissions; we don’t fly drones in busy or sensitive areas, or if it's too windy or raining.

Which locations are tide/wind dependent?

Cramond Causeway must be shot at low tide; South Queensferry looks best at calm tide/wind. Arthur’s Seat/Holyrood Park can be very windy—lower paths are safer.

What should we wear/bring?

Layers, comfortable shoes with grip, a transparent umbrella, hair grips, and a microfiber cloth. In winter, add hand warmers. Avoid wearing only black outfits in dark stone locations—mix textures/tones.

Can we bring our dog?

Yes, we're dog lovers! For most outdoor locations (lead required in busy areas). Interiors and cloisters may restrict pets—ask us and we’ll steer you to dog-friendly spots.

How long does a typical route take?

A tidy 60–90 minutes covers 2–3 close-by locations (e.g., Circus Lane → Dean Village → Princes Street Gardens). Add time for travel if hopping further.

Is everything step-free?

Not everywhere. The Vennel, some closes, and Dean Village have stairs/cobbles. Good step-lighter options include Princes Street Gardens paths, the Scottish National Gallery portico and many New Town streets—tell us your access needs and we’ll tailor a route.

Example 90‑Minute Route (Old Town edition)

  1. Golden light portraits at The Vennel
  2. Walk to Royal Mile via Victoria Street, pop into Advocates Close, Byre's Close or Milne's Court
  3. Blue‑hour cityscapes from Calton Hill

Example 90‑Minute Route (New Town + Water of Leith)

  1. Sunrise at Dean Village
  2. Wander to Circus Lane along the Water of Leith path
  3. Finish at Princes Street Gardens for Edinburgh Castle + Ross Fountain

Want us to plan it all?

Tell us your date, vibe and shoes, and we’ll suggest the perfect route with timings and a rain‑proof Plan B (and C).

Local pros: Edinburgh-based, 700+ weddings. Your local experts for the best photo locations in Edinburgh.

Zero faff: We handle locations, light, logistics.

Real results: Stunning images without the stress.

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Photographer & Videographer

From Printing to Picture-perfect Moments

Once upon a time, Jonathon Fowler ran a successful print and graphic design business, turning blank paper into masterpieces. But when he married his fabulous wife Claire, he had an epiphany—why print memories when you can capture them? That lightbulb moment led to a bold career switch, and now, he’s one of Scotland’s most experienced and sought-after event photographers and videographers.

Jonathon expertly blends artistic flair with a documentary-style approach. Whether it’s an intimate elopement a luxury wedding, he’s got the experience (and the camera skills) to capture every heartfelt moment.

Why Couples Trust Jonathon (and you should too!)

  • Unmatched experience. 700+ weddings, countless happy couples.
  • A proven track record of being in the right place at the right time to capture unique moments.
  • Personalised service. Your wedding isn’t a copy-paste job, and neither is Jonathon’s approach.
  • Authentic & timeless style. Natural storytelling documenting real, authentic emotions never goes out of fashion.
  • Award-winning. Recognised in the wedding industry for photographing and filming love stories creatively and with outstanding customer service.

With a reputation built on passion for the role he plays on your wedding day, expertise, and an eye for the perfect shot, Jonathon Fowler is exactly who you want behind the lens on your big day.