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George Street

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

A legendary street for nightlife and live music in St. John's, or an elegant hub for shopping and dining in Edinburgh.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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We love spring in the Arcade

George Street

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A legendary street for nightlife and live music in St. John's, or an elegant hub for shopping and dining in Edinburgh.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"George Street is the heart and soul of St. John's nightlife, where the music never stops and good times roll."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Ahead for Dining

Popular restaurants and bars fill up fast, especially on weekends. Book in advance!

🎶 Embrace the Music

Experience the diverse live music scene; you'll find something for every taste.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

George Street Nightlife

George Street Nightlife

The heart and soul of St. John's nightlife, with live music in almost every bar.

Instagram
Live Music Scene

Live Music Scene

From Newfoundland tunes and Irish jigs to rock bands, the music never stops.

Instagram+1
Screech-In Experience

Screech-In Experience

A unique Newfoundland tradition involving a shot and kissing a cod.

Instagram
Edinburgh's Festive Charm

Edinburgh's Festive Charm

George Street in Edinburgh transforms into a magical wonderland during the festive season.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating George Street's Buzz

George Street is a vibrant hub, especially known for its lively nightlife and diverse culinary scene. Be prepared for crowds, particularly on weekends and evenings. Booking popular restaurants or bars in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

Best Time for Your Visit

For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting George Street during weekday afternoons when crowds are thinner. Evenings and weekends offer a buzzing atmosphere with live music and bustling pubs, perfect for those seeking excitement. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Bustling atmosphere, live music
Crowd
High
When
Festive season (Edinburgh)
Why
Magical wonderland transformation
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

HUNTING FOR THE BEST ROAST IN THE UK? 🥩 This easily goes into the top 3 best roasts I’ve had to date. 📍 @dylanskingsarms #stalbans #roast #roastdinner #sundayroast #beef #steak #Foodie #food #london #fyp
@eatingwithtod
121.7K likes • 1.7M views

🎯 Book Ahead for Dining

Popular restaurants and bars fill up fast, especially on weekends. Book in advance! Instagram+1

🎶 Embrace the Music

Experience the diverse live music scene; you'll find something for every taste. Instagram

How is this place so expensive and desirable? Slap bang in the middle of the badlands of Herts. #stalbans #hertfordshire #herts #PlacesToVisit #britishhumour #ukcomedy #satire #LearnOnTikTok
@philc84
49.3K likes • 778.8K views
George Street is beautiful all year round, but especially in the festive season! ⭐ Stretching from Charlotte Square all the way to St Andrews Square, this iconic street transforms into a magical wonderland at Christmas. Whether you choose to indulge in retail-therapy or dine in one of Edinburgh’s charming venues, George Street has it all. #EdinburghsStreets #GeorgeStreet #ForeverEdinburgh #Edin...
thisisedinburgh
1.4K likes • 35.8K views

🍻 Try a Screech-In

Don't miss this unique Newfoundland tradition for a memorable experience. Instagram

🛍️ Edinburgh Shopping

George Street in Edinburgh is perfect for retail therapy, especially during holidays. Instagram

What is your St. John’s hot take? #stjohns #nl #newfoundland #mun #university #college #campus #interview #canada #georgestreet #newfie #bellisland #cornerbrook #gander #streetinterview
themuseyyt
533 likes • 54.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Ahead for Dining

Popular restaurants and bars fill up fast, especially on weekends. Book in advance! Instagram+1

🎶 Embrace the Music

Experience the diverse live music scene; you'll find something for every taste. Instagram

🍻 Try a Screech-In

Don't miss this unique Newfoundland tradition for a memorable experience. Instagram

🛍️ Edinburgh Shopping

George Street in Edinburgh is perfect for retail therapy, especially during holidays. Instagram

🚶 Explore on Foot

The best way to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems is by walking. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

George Street in St. John's is celebrated for its unparalleled nightlife and vibrant live music scene, offering a unique cultural experience with its famous 'Screech-In' tradition. While it can get very crowded, the energetic atmosphere and diverse entertainment make it a memorable destination. Edinburgh's George Street offers a more refined experience, known for its elegant architecture, upscale shopping, and sophisticated dining, especially enchanting during the festive season.

What People Like

Vibrant nightlife
Live music variety
Unique cultural experiences

What People Dislike

Can be very crowded
Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

George Street is located in downtown St. John's, Newfoundland. It's easily accessible by foot from most downtown accommodations. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. Instagram+1

Absolutely! George Street is a pedestrian-friendly area, perfect for strolling and hopping between venues. Instagram

George Street is a major thoroughfare in Edinburgh city center, easily reachable by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from Waverley Train Station. Instagram+1

Parking can be challenging in both St. John's and Edinburgh's city centers. It's often best to use public transport, taxis, or walk if staying nearby. Instagram

For travel within Newfoundland, consider renting a car for flexibility or looking into inter-city bus services. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there's no entry fee to walk along George Street. However, specific venues or ticketed events, like those at George Street Live, will require tickets. Instagram+1

Some bars might have cover charges, especially on busy nights or if there's live music. It's best to check with individual establishments. Instagram

While some places offer the Screech-In experience, it's advisable to check if reservations are needed, particularly for larger groups. Instagram

George Street itself is a public street and free to access. Any specific attractions or shops will have their own admission policies. Instagram

Shop hours vary greatly. Many shops in Edinburgh's George Street are open daily, with extended hours during peak seasons. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

George Street boasts a high concentration of bars offering diverse music genres, from traditional Newfoundland folk to rock and pop. Instagram+1

It's known for its electric atmosphere, with music spilling out of pubs and lively crowds enjoying the night. Instagram+1

While primarily known for nightlife, during the day, you can explore shops and enjoy the city's atmosphere. Edinburgh's George Street offers more daytime shopping and dining options. Instagram

Live music is a staple, especially on weekend evenings. Many venues feature bands throughout the night. Instagram

It's a fun, informal ceremony where visitors are initiated into Newfoundland culture by taking a shot of Screech rum and kissing a codfish. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find a range of pubs serving classic pub fare, seafood, and local Newfoundland dishes. Instagram

While known for its bars, there are also restaurants offering various cuisines. Booking ahead is wise. Instagram

Don't miss out on fresh seafood, Jiggs dinner, and traditional Newfoundland pastries. Instagram

Edinburgh's George Street offers a sophisticated dining scene with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars catering to various tastes. Instagram+1

Many establishments are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan choices. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant street life, neon signs of the bars, and the lively crowds, especially at night. Instagram+1

Yes, the illuminated signs and bustling atmosphere make it a prime spot for vibrant night photography. Instagram+1

The street itself, with its elegant Georgian architecture, is very photogenic, especially during festive periods. Instagram+1

Generally, public photography is allowed. However, be respectful of individuals and private establishments. Instagram

While not a common service directly on the street, you can find professional photographers in St. John's or Edinburgh who specialize in event or street photography. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

🍻 Nightlife Enthusiasts (St. John's)

If you're looking for a lively night out, George Street in St. John's is your ultimate destination. With more bars per square foot than almost anywhere else, the energy is palpable. Instagram Prepare for a night filled with diverse live music, from traditional Newfoundland tunes to rock anthems. Instagram Don't miss the chance to experience a 'Screech-In' for a truly unique cultural immersion. Instagram Be ready for crowds, especially on weekends, and consider booking popular venues in advance if you have a specific place in mind. Instagram

🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies (Edinburgh)

For those who appreciate elegant surroundings, high-end shopping, and fine dining, George Street in Edinburgh is a must-visit. Instagram Explore its array of designer boutiques and popular retailers, and then indulge in the diverse culinary offerings, from charming cafes to sophisticated restaurants. Instagram The street is particularly enchanting during the festive season, offering a magical backdrop for your retail and dining adventures. Instagram

🎶 Music Lovers

George Street in St. John's is a paradise for music lovers, with live performances happening every night of the week. Instagram You can find everything from traditional Newfoundland folk music and Irish jigs to rock, country, and pop bands. Instagram It's the perfect place to discover local talent and enjoy a vibrant musical atmosphere. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heartbeat of St. John's Nightlife

George Street in St. John's, Newfoundland, is legendary for its density of bars and pubs, earning it a reputation as having one of the highest concentrations of bars per square foot in North America. Instagram The street truly comes alive after dark, offering a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Visitors can expect a diverse range of live music every night, from traditional Newfoundland folk music and Irish jigs to rock bands and cover sets. Instagram It's the go-to destination for locals and tourists alike looking for a good time, with many venues offering packed patios and a lively ambiance. Instagram

Beyond the music, George Street is famous for its unique cultural experiences, most notably the 'Screech-In' ceremony. This quirky tradition involves visitors taking a shot of local Screech rum and performing a ceremonial kiss of a codfish, symbolizing their initiation into Newfoundland culture. Instagram While the street is primarily known for its nightlife, during the day, it offers a chance to explore the city's character and perhaps enjoy some pub fare before the evening's festivities begin. Instagram

When planning a visit, it's wise to consider that George Street can get very crowded, especially on weekend evenings. Instagram Booking popular spots in advance is recommended, and embracing the spontaneous nature of hopping between venues is part of the fun. The street's energy is infectious, making it a must-visit for anyone experiencing St. John's. Instagram

Edinburgh's Elegant George Street

George Street in Edinburgh, Scotland, presents a different, yet equally captivating, experience. This elegant thoroughfare, stretching from Charlotte Square to St. Andrew Square, is renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture and upscale shopping. Instagram+1 It's a key part of the city's UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a more refined atmosphere compared to its St. John's namesake. During the festive season, George Street undergoes a magical transformation, becoming a central hub for Christmas markets and festive lights, creating a truly enchanting ambiance. Instagram

The street is a premier destination for retail therapy, housing a variety of high-end boutiques, designer stores, and popular high street brands. Instagram Complementing the shopping is a sophisticated dining scene, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars offering everything from casual lunches to fine dining experiences. Instagram It's an ideal location for those looking to enjoy a leisurely day of shopping, followed by a delightful meal or a sophisticated drink in a beautiful setting. Instagram

While George Street in Edinburgh offers a more tranquil and upscale experience, it still buzzes with activity, particularly during shopping hours and the festive period. It provides a stark contrast to the raucous nightlife of George Street, St. John's, showcasing the diverse interpretations of a street bearing the same name. Instagram

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