The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh
Iconic steps offering a breathtaking, postcard-perfect view of Edinburgh Castle, famous from the Netflix series 'One Day.'
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic steps offering a breathtaking, postcard-perfect view of Edinburgh Castle, famous from the Netflix series 'One Day.'
"The view of the castle was absolutely stunning and it wasn't as crowded as I thought it would be."
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Clean your lens for clear shots; avoid light flare for the best castle views.
✨ 'One Day' Pilgrimage
Fans of the Netflix series will recognize these iconic steps.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Edinburgh Castle Vista
Top of the Vennel Steps
The quintessential view of Edinburgh Castle, framed by historic buildings. A must-see for any visitor.
The 'One Day' Steps
The Vennel Stairway
Walk in the footsteps of Emma and Dexter. These charming steps are a pilgrimage site for fans of the show.
Grassmarket Charm
Base of the Vennel Steps
The historic Grassmarket area surrounds the steps, offering a glimpse into Edinburgh's vibrant past.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the 'One Day' Magic
Timing is Key for Castle Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Clean your lens for clear shots; avoid light flare for the best castle views.
✨ 'One Day' Pilgrimage
Fans of the Netflix series will recognize these iconic steps.
🍦 Nearby Treats
Grab ice cream from Mary's Milk Bar and enjoy the view.
🚶♀️ Easy to Find
Located in the Grassmarket area, it's a quick detour with a big reward.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Clean your lens for clear shots; avoid light flare for the best castle views.
✨ 'One Day' Pilgrimage
Fans of the Netflix series will recognize these iconic steps.
🍦 Nearby Treats
Grab ice cream from Mary's Milk Bar and enjoy the view.
🚶♀️ Easy to Find
Located in the Grassmarket area, it's a quick detour with a big reward.
🌳 Consider Tree Cover
Trees can sometimes obscure the view on the left; be aware of this.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Vennel Viewpoint for its breathtaking, iconic view of Edinburgh Castle, often calling it a 'must-see' and a perfect photo opportunity. Its fame from the 'One Day' series adds a romantic allure, and its convenient location in the Grassmarket makes it an easily accessible and enjoyable stop. Some minor drawbacks include potential tree obstruction and occasional crowds, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"This was a really, really pretty spot. I know it's gained fame after being featured on One Day, but even I enjoyed it after having never seen the series. The view of the castle was absolutely stunning and it wasn't as crowded as I thought it would be. The location is great and really convenient. We only stopped for a few minutes m, but it was a really nice place to be, and I'm sure it would be fun to just sit on the stairs, with a hot drink, taking in the view."
Myla Nichols
"Stairs near the famous Mary’s ice cream shop which gives you an elevated viewpoint of the Edinburgh castle. Perfect photo opportunity on a clear day. A lot of people pose for pictures here.
Also a nice place to sit to enjoy the ice cream and enjoy the views."
Nahshon
"The Vennel Viewpoint is one of my favorite places in Edinburgh to take in the city’s historic charm. The view of the Old Town and the castle is breathtaking, especially during sunset. It’s a quiet and peaceful spot, great for a relaxing break or photography. The pathway to the viewpoint is easy to find and walk along. If you’re visiting Edinburgh, this viewpoint is definitely worth checking out!"
Dhanushka Rathnayaka
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Vennel Viewpoint is easily accessible from the Grassmarket area. You can find the steps leading up to it, offering a direct path to the viewpoint. Many visitors use Google Maps with the search term 'Vennel Viewpoint' or 'Vennel Steps' for precise directions.
Yes, it's very walkable from many central Edinburgh attractions like the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. It's a convenient stop on a walking tour of the city.
Using a GPS app on your phone and searching for 'The Vennel Viewpoint' or 'Vennel Steps' is highly recommended. The steps are nestled between buildings, so precise navigation is helpful.
Parking directly at the viewpoint is limited. It's best to park in the Grassmarket area or a nearby city car park and walk to the steps.
Yes, numerous bus routes stop in the Grassmarket area, which is a short walk from the Vennel Steps. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, The Vennel Viewpoint is a public space and does not require any tickets for entry. You can visit it freely at any time.
As it's an outdoor public space, The Vennel Viewpoint is accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best views and safety.
There is no admission fee. Access to the steps and the viewpoint is completely free for everyone.
While you can technically visit at night, the view of Edinburgh Castle will be less distinct, and the steps may be dimly lit. It's best enjoyed during daylight or twilight hours.
There are no specific restrictions, but it's a residential area, so visitors are asked to be respectful of the local community.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a beautiful glow on Edinburgh Castle. Golden hour is particularly magical. 
The primary attraction is the stunning, unobstructed view of Edinburgh Castle, framed by historic buildings. It's also famous for its appearance in the Netflix series 'One Day.'
Clean your camera lens to avoid light flare, especially when shooting towards the castle. Consider different angles from the steps to capture the best composition.
Yes, the view of Edinburgh Castle is very clear from the top of the Vennel Steps. However, some trees on the left side might slightly obscure the view at certain times of the year.
Absolutely! The romantic ambiance and the iconic castle backdrop make it a popular and picturesque spot for proposals and engagement photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Grassmarket area at the base of the steps is filled with pubs, cafes, and restaurants. Mary's Milk Bar, known for its unique ice cream, is a popular nearby spot.
While there are no dedicated dining facilities, you can certainly bring takeaway food or drinks, like ice cream from Mary's Milk Bar, to enjoy while taking in the view.
You'll find a variety of options in the Grassmarket, from traditional Scottish pub fare to international cuisine, cafes, and sweet treats.
It can be a lovely spot to sit on the steps with a takeaway treat, but it's not a traditional picnic area. The Grassmarket offers more space for a full picnic.
Mary's Milk Bar is highly recommended for its artisanal ice cream. There are also numerous cafes in the Grassmarket offering coffee, pastries, and light meals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a stop at Mary's Milk Bar at the bottom of the steps for a special treat. The surrounding Grassmarket area also has plenty of family-friendly pubs and cafes for a meal or snack. Keep an eye out for street performers in the Grassmarket, which can add to the fun for younger visitors.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1Pro-tip: Visit during the golden hour for stunning light on the castle. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, and consider cleaning your lens to avoid flare for the clearest shots. Experiment with different angles from the steps to create unique compositions.
❤️ Couples & Romantics
+1Consider visiting during sunset for an unforgettable experience. It's an ideal spot for a quiet moment together, a proposal, or simply to soak in the romantic atmosphere of Edinburgh. Afterwards, explore the nearby Grassmarket for a cozy dinner or drinks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'One Day' Connection
+3This connection adds a layer of emotional resonance to the already stunning scenery. It's not just about the view of Edinburgh Castle; it's about stepping into a beloved story. The steps themselves, with their weathered stone and the archway leading to the college of art, provide a perfect backdrop for capturing that 'main character' aesthetic that's so popular on social media.
+1While the 'One Day' fame is a major draw, it's worth noting that the viewpoint was appreciated long before the show. Locals and long-time visitors have always cherished the unique perspective it offers of the castle, highlighting its enduring charm beyond its recent pop culture status.
Capturing the Perfect Shot
For the best photographic results, timing is crucial. Early mornings often yield softer light and fewer people, allowing for unobstructed shots. Late afternoons, especially during the golden hour, can bathe the castle in a warm, ethereal glow. Be mindful of potential light flare from the street lamps if shooting at dusk or dawn; cleaning your lens can significantly improve image clarity.
Beyond the main castle view, experiment with different angles. Shooting from the bottom of the steps looking up, or from various points along the staircase, can offer unique perspectives. The archway leading to the Edinburgh College of Art also presents interesting photographic opportunities. Remember to be respectful of residents and other visitors while you're composing your shots.
Beyond the View: Exploring the Grassmarket
At the base of the Vennel Steps, you'll find Mary's Milk Bar, a beloved local spot famous for its artisanal ice cream and milkshakes. It's the perfect place to grab a treat and enjoy it while soaking in the atmosphere of the Grassmarket or even taking it up to the viewpoint.
The Grassmarket also serves as a gateway to other key Edinburgh attractions. Its central location makes it easy to connect to the Royal Mile, Victoria Street, and the National Museum of Scotland, allowing you to easily combine a visit to the Vennel Viewpoint with a broader exploration of the city.
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