Victoria Street

Victoria Street is a curved, cobbled street in the Old Town of Edinburgh, Scotland, running from George IV Bridge down towards the Grassmarket beneath the castle rock. It is one of the most photographed streets in the city, known for its brightly painted shopfronts in shades of red, blue, green and yellow, which line the curve of the terrace. The street is home to independent shops, delicatessens, cafes, a cheese shop and small boutiques, and the upper terrace walkway gives a vantage point over the lower street. The best photograph is taken from the top of the street looking down the curve, where the coloured facades lead the eye toward the Grassmarket. A second angle from the lower street looks up the curve towards the bridge. Early morning is the best time for photography, before shops open and while the cobbles are empty, with soft light falling across the facades. By mid-morning and through the afternoon, tourists fill the street, particularly in summer and during the August festivals, so crowd-free shots become difficult. Evening light can also be pleasant, with warm tones on the painted fronts. The street is short, so a photo stop takes 15 to 30 minutes, though visitors who browse the shops spend longer. It is free to visit, and the cobbles are uneven and steep, so comfortable shoes are useful. The street is a short walk from the Royal Mile and the castle, and Lothian Buses stop nearby on Johnston Terrace. Rain brings reflections on the cobbles that some photographers prefer, but the street can be slippery. The street links naturally with the Grassmarket at the bottom, where there are pubs and restaurants.