Shopping
Edinburgh is renowned for its rich variety of shops spread throughout the city. Despite large chain stores central Edinburgh remains an enticing place for shoppers with many areas having their own distinct character. Princess Street remains Edinburgh’s main shopping street and is home to Jenners, the oldest independent department store in the world. The Old Town and Royal mile have smaller speciality shops selling mainly Scottish merchandise and souvenirs. The Ocean Terminal shopping centre in Leith is only two miles from the city centre and has a free car park. Regular buses can be boarded from Princess Street. A mecca for all fashion gurus is the new Harvey Nichols in St Andrews Square.
Edinburgh is a popular destination for festive shoppers. The German Market held every Christmas has the ambiance and magic of Christmas past. The streets are festooned with lights. Carol singers, strolling players and street entertainers all add to the atmosphere at this traditional event. This year the market opens on 24th November and is to be held beside the National galleries at the bottom of The Mound. The market is open from 10am – 8 pm.
Services
As one of Europe’s most visited capital cities Edinburgh is well geared up for tourists. The Edinburgh and Scotland tourist information centre can be found on top of the Princess Mall at the east end of Princess Street. Tel:0131 4733800
www.edinburgh.org
The main post offices are in the St James Centre, 7 Hope Street and 40 Frederick Street when you can by stamps, post mail and change currency.
Edinburgh is well equipped for visitors with disabilities. Most galleries, museums and public buildings have wheelchair facilities. Advice and information is available from Disability Scotland on 0131-313-5510.