The Vennel Edinburgh Scotland
Iconic steps offering a breathtaking, unobstructed view of Edinburgh Castle, a hidden gem and popular filming location.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
The Vennel Edinburgh Scotland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic steps offering a breathtaking, unobstructed view of Edinburgh Castle, a hidden gem and popular filming location.
"The Vennel Steps offer one of the most stunning, cinematic views of Edinburgh Castle you'll find. "
🎯 Find the Hidden Entrance
Look for the arched gateway near the Grassmarket for the most direct access to the steps.
📸 Castle Photo Op
The Vennel offers one of the best, unobstructed views of Edinburgh Castle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Vennel Steps Viewpoint
Grassmarket area
Iconic steps offering a breathtaking, unobstructed view of Edinburgh Castle. A must-see for any visitor.
Filming Location
The Vennel Steps
Relive scenes from the Netflix series 'One Day' at this picturesque filming location.
Hidden Gem Photography Spot
The Vennel
Discover a less-trafficked, magical spot perfect for capturing stunning Edinburgh cityscapes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Capture the Magic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Find the Hidden Entrance
Look for the arched gateway near the Grassmarket for the most direct access to the steps.
📸 Castle Photo Op
The Vennel offers one of the best, unobstructed views of Edinburgh Castle.
🎬 'One Day' Filming Spot
Fans of the Netflix series can recreate iconic scenes here.
🚶♀️ Student's Daily Walk
This was a daily route for architecture students, adding a layer of history.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Find the Hidden Entrance
Look for the arched gateway near the Grassmarket for the most direct access to the steps.
📸 Castle Photo Op
The Vennel offers one of the best, unobstructed views of Edinburgh Castle.
🎬 'One Day' Filming Spot
Fans of the Netflix series can recreate iconic scenes here.
🚶♀️ Student's Daily Walk
This was a daily route for architecture students, adding a layer of history.
✨ Moody & Magical Vibes
Perfect for capturing that dark academia or mystical Scottish atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about The Vennel Steps for their breathtaking, unobstructed views of Edinburgh Castle and its cinematic charm, often calling it a hidden gem. It's particularly popular for photography and as a filming location for 'One Day.' Some note that it can get crowded, and the steps themselves are quite steep.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Vennel Steps are located near the Grassmarket. Look for an arched gateway that leads to the steps, often described as a hidden entrance. Many visitors access it from the Grassmarket area.
Yes, the Grassmarket area is well-served by local buses. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to find the entrance to The Vennel Steps.
Driving directly to the steps is not recommended due to pedestrianized areas and limited parking. It's best to park in a nearby car park in the city center and walk.
The Vennel viewpoint is essentially the top of the steps. Look for the distinctive arched entrance from the Grassmarket side.
While there isn't direct parking at the steps, several public car parks are available in the vicinity of the Grassmarket and the city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, The Vennel Steps are a public walkway and viewpoint, so there is no admission fee. You can visit anytime.
The Vennel Steps are publicly accessible and do not have set opening hours. You can visit them at any time of day or night.
There is no entrance fee for The Vennel viewpoint. It's a free public space offering iconic views of Edinburgh Castle.
Yes, you can visit The Vennel Steps at night. The castle is often illuminated, providing a different, magical perspective.
As a public walkway, there are generally no specific restrictions, but visitors are expected to be respectful of the area and its surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with fewer crowds. Moody, overcast days also create a dramatic atmosphere. +1
The primary attraction is the stunning, unobstructed view of Edinburgh Castle, making it a prime photography spot.
Yes, the steps offer a fantastic vantage point for sunset photos, with the castle silhouetted against the colorful sky.
Drone usage in Edinburgh city center is subject to strict regulations. It's advisable to check local bylaws and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
Its unique perspective of Edinburgh Castle, combined with the atmospheric charm of the steps and surrounding architecture, makes it a photographer's delight.
🎫 🎬 Filming Locations
The Vennel Steps gained popularity as a filming location for the Netflix series 'One Day', where it featured in key romantic scenes. +1
Yes, the steps themselves are the filming location. Visitors can stand on the steps and imagine the scenes from the show.
Edinburgh has many filming locations, including the Royal Mile, Victoria Street, and various closes and wynds, often featured in historical dramas and fantasy films.
For fans of 'One Day' or those who appreciate cinematic views, standing on The Vennel Steps with Edinburgh Castle in sight can certainly evoke a movie-like feeling.
Yes, especially after its feature in 'One Day', it has become a popular spot for fans of the show looking to visit filming locations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine a visit to The Vennel with a walk through the Grassmarket, which often has street performers and is a lively area for families. It’s a good way to break up a day of sightseeing without requiring a long commitment, making it ideal for younger children with shorter attention spans.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The steps themselves add a leading line element to compositions, drawing the viewer's eye towards the castle. The 'dark academia' aesthetic is easily achieved here, especially on a moody day, appealing to those seeking atmospheric shots. Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light. The castle is also beautifully illuminated at night, offering opportunities for dramatic long-exposure photography.
Be prepared for potential crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons, but even with others around, the view is consistently breathtaking. 🎬 Fans of 'One Day'
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of The Vennel
This area offers a tangible link to Edinburgh's past, allowing visitors to walk in the footsteps of generations. The juxtaposition of the ancient steps and the imposing Edinburgh Castle creates a powerful sense of place. It’s a reminder that even in a modern city, history is often just a few steps away, waiting to be discovered.
Photography Tips for The Vennel
Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass both the steps and the castle, or a telephoto lens to isolate the castle for a more dramatic shot. The moody, often overcast Scottish weather can be an advantage, creating a dramatic and atmospheric backdrop that enhances the 'dark academia' aesthetic many visitors seek. Experiment with different angles; shooting from the bottom of the steps looking up towards the castle can emphasize the scale, while standing at the top offers a commanding view. Don't forget to capture the details of the steps themselves, their worn stones telling a story of countless footsteps.
If you're lucky enough to visit when the castle is illuminated at night, you can achieve stunning long-exposure shots that highlight the city's nocturnal charm.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit