As the streets are painted in fallen leaves and foggy mornings, Edinburgh transforms in autumn and the chance to explore every corner of the capital awakens. Although Edinburgh is a beautiful city in any season, in October and November, there are many ways to fill your days from charming cafés, cosy bookshops, antiquing and more. 

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Read our guide on all the ways you can enjoy your visit to Edinburgh this autumn and start planning your unforgettable trip to the capital.

Charming Bookstores 

For book lovers hoping to find their next new read or a special edition of their favourite novel, Edinburgh is the perfect spot for some book shopping. With many quirky and unique second-hand bookstores, readers can delight in shelves packed with gems just waiting to be dusted off and given a spot on their bookshelf. 

Armchair Books

This family-run second-hand bookstore is as cosy as it is popular. With a huge selection of special editions and rare copies of books, Armchair Books is a delightful escape into a world of literature for an afternoon of browsing the shelves. The store can be found on West Port Street in the Grassmarket area of Edinburgh. 

Edinburgh Books

With a vast and unusual selection of books, this store is easy to get lost in as you scan every shelf for that first edition you’ve been in search of. When the weather is dreich, there’s no better place to spend a rainy afternoon.

Antiques Shopping

What better way to fill your day than with a spot of shopping for antiques? Edinburgh has many unique and charming shops to pick from where you can explore all manner of items to add to your collection, or as a keepsake from your trip to the capital city. 

Unicorn Antiques 

This Victorian antique store has a treasure trove of glass and silverware, small furnishings and curios to please any collector. Located on Dundas Street, Unicorn Antiques could be the perfect way to spend a chilly morning in Edinburgh. You can find their stock on their website for a sneak peek before your visit. 

The Courtyard Antiques

This store offers two floors of antiques, packed to the rafters and at great prices. Most notably, they have an impressive collection of antique weaponry on offer for those interested in increasing their collection. They also have an eclectic and exciting stock of antiques & vintage items from the 1790's to the 1970's. More information about their stock and history can be found on their website. 

Cosy Up in Gastropubs & Cafés

With the beautiful architecture and cobbled streets of Edinburgh, there’s no better place to spend autumn. Try out new dishes, sip on signature cocktails and enjoy artisan coffee as you explore the city. Read on to find out about our favourite spots in the city to coorie in. 

Under the Stairs

Located on Merchant Street, you can enjoy bistro food and refreshing cocktails as you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere complete with retro decor and exposed stone. Cosy up by the fireplace and try out their taster plates, seasonal cocktails and more. 

The Milkman

Curl up in their bay window seat and watch the city go by as you enjoy a cup of thoughtfully sourced coffee & pastries in the restored brick-walled candy shop. Not only is their coffee ethically sourced, but is of high quality and completely unique. You can find out more on their website. 

Afternoon Tea at Prestonfield House

Just ten minutes by car from Princes Street, Prestonfield House is a haven for escaping the crowds of the city and unwinding at their tranquil estate. 

Under the shadow of Arthur’s seat, Prestonfield offers a seasonal Afternoon tea experience like no other. Served in their esteemed Rhubarb restaurant, on their emerald lawns, or in their private dining rooms. The tea is served from 12pm daily. Beautifully presented and equally as delicious, Afternoon Tea at Prestonfield House is sure to elevate any trip to Edinburgh. 

Visit The Witchery

October and November may be the most impressive time to visit us as we go all out for October. Located on Castle Hill, we embrace the month of Halloween, lining our stairways with pumpkins and setting our tables with autumnal decor, staging the scene for the season. 

Indulge in decadent dishes and our rich selection of wines in the original dining room by candlelight next to Edinburgh Castle. Discover our menus, offers, Afternoon Tea and gothic suites and start the planning of your autumnal trip to Edinburgh.