If you’re visiting Scotland where better to pick up a souvenir than the tartan shops in Edinburgh? Tartan, with its striking patterns of criss-crossed horizontal and vertical stripes, is the iconic symbol of Scotland. Whether you’re interested in investing in a kilt or simply buying a scarf or other simple keepsake, this article provides a guide to the tartan shops in Edinburgh.
The Tartan Industry in Scotland
Tartan Shops in Edinburgh
The tartan industry has evolved dramatically since its early days. Early tartans were often coarser and less uniform than their modern counterparts. As industrialisation took hold, tartan weaving became a major industry in Scotland, particularly in the Lowlands. Industrials built factories to meet the demand for tartan products, and as Scotland’s diaspora spread across the world, so too did the love for tartan.
Interesting Facts About Tartan
The world’s largest tartan design belongs to the “Scotland Forever” tartan, created in 2003 to celebrate Scotland’s National Day.
In 1998, the MacLeod Tartan was sent into space by Scottish astronaut David MacLeod, making it the first tartan in space.
The Tartan Register, maintained by the Scottish Government, officially recognises tartans. To have a tartan added, the design must be unique and must adhere to traditional weaving techniques.
Your family or clan tartan comes from your mother’s side of the family.
Where to Buy a Kilt in Edinburgh
Tartan Shops in Edinburgh
Today, tartan is still an integral part of Scotland’s national heritage. Alongside the tourist shops selling tartan products, there are several tartan shops in Edinburgh which continue to uphold the traditions of tartan weaving or kilt making, offering both handwoven and machine-made products.
If you want to buy a genuine kilt in Edinburgh, it’s important to go to a reputable kiltmakers. There are a lot of shops, especially on the Royal Mile, selling inferior, imported goods. Here’s a look at some of the best tartan shops in Edinburgh, where you can be assured of the authenticity and quality of Scottish craftsmanship. We have also recommended one kiltmaker who has put a modern twist on the traditional kilt.
The Best Tartan Shops in Edinburgh
Geoffrey Tailor & Kiltmaker (sometimes known as Geoffrey Tailor Highland Dress) is a famous tartan shop in Edinburgh on the Royal Mile. Unlike many of the shops on the Royal Mile which sell imported goods, Geoffrey Tailor is a long-established and respected choice if you are seeking authentic Scottish tartan and Highland wear. Geoffrey Tailor is known for its traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail, offering a range of products from bespoke, hand sewn kilts to Highland accessories and Harris Tweed. The shop is now run by Howie Nicholsoby (son of founder, Geoffrey) and John Webster, who have decades of experience in the craft of kilt making.
Geoffrey Tailor has earned rave reviews for its attention to detail and expert craftsmanship. They have a popular bespoke kilt making service whereby customers can choose from an extensive range of tartans, including family and clan designs. The shop also offers a variety of ready-made kilts, jackets, sporrans, and other accessories, ensuring that you can find everything you need for a traditional Scottish look.
Location: You can find Geoffrey Tailor and Kiltmaker at 57-59 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SR.
Opening Hours: Open 6 days a week Mon-Sat between 10am and 5pm. We recommend you book an appointment well in advance of your trip.
Offering a modern take on the traditional Highland kilt, Howie Nicholsby also runs 21st Century Kilts. He is famous for his ‘modern’ utility (with pockets), kilts and boasts a host of celebrity customers. So, if you want some real Scottish craftsmanship but something a bit more unusual, secure yourself one of these kilts for a modern twist on the quintessential Highland dress. Recommended by Big Sky’s owner, Rob, who can be seen wearing his own Howie creation below. These are high quality, bespoke garments in high demand, so be prepared to wait a while for your kilt to be delivered after the initial appointment to measure up. It took 5 months to make Rob’s. The time it takes is a reflection of how busy they are rather than the actual production time. You will need to have deep pockets too! If you don’t have a family tartan, you can opt for the kilt to be made with Harris Tweed. Or, like Rob, opt for a tweed with just a trim in the family tartan for a subtler style.
Located just outside Edinburgh City Centre in the historic port of Leith, Kinloch Anderson is a name synonymous with luxury and heritage. Established in 1868, the company is the only Scottish Brand to have simultaneously held three Royal Warrants of Appointment to Queen Elizabeth II, the Duke of Edinburgh, and the then Prince of Wales (now King Charles). In April 2024, there were amongst the only 145 companies to receive the Royal Warrant of Appointment to King Charles III in his first Reign.
If you visit the store, you will be shopping at one of the most prestigious Highland Dress shops in Scotland. This family-run business is one of the few remaining places where kilts are all hand-crafted by the most expert artisans on location. The shop also includes a Heritage Room where you can delve into the history of the brand, kiltmaking, tartan as well as seeing the kiltmakers working.
Renowned for their craftsmanship, offering a range of beautifully tailored kilts, tartan garments and accessories, Kinloch Anderson is one of Scotland’s most respected kiltmakers and are famous for their role in designing tartans for events, companies, and individuals. Proud Highland Dress Partners of Scottish Rugby, one of their most popular designs is the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Tartan, approved by the Queen to celebrate her Jubilee.
If you are looking for authenticity and craftsmanship, their shop is what you’re looking for. From bespoke tartans and made to measure garments to tours and Tartan Talks, they offer a great experience for both locals and visitors. Previous customers have, in fact, praised their personalised experience with some calling it “the Rolls Royce of tartan shops.”
Location: 4 Dock Street, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6EY
Marchbrae was founded by Charles Angus Marchbrae, the son of a stonemason and building worker from Dalkeith. He served as an apprentice to a tailor for 6 years before opening a small gentlemen’s tailoring workshop in 1771 where he made his fortune supplying fine Harris Tweed suits to Edinburgh Society. Today, Marchbrae sells the finest Scottish cashmere, Highland Dress, and Country Clothing.
Marchbrae is a good spot to find high-quality souvenirs and gifts, particularly their impressive range of tartan accessories such as blankets, scarves and shawls. There is a wide selection of tartans from different Scottish clans, making it an ideal stop for those tracing their Scottish ancestry. The shop also has a wide selection of cashmere items.
Marchbrae is located at 375 High Street on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
Walker Slater originated in the Highlands, supplying remote rural communities with hard-wearing clothing to combat the harsh elements, before establishing shops further south in Edinburgh, Glasgow and London. This company has achieved international acclaim for its tweed products, but they also offer a fantastic selection of tartan garments. Located in the West End, this shop has a focus on sustainability and craftsmanship. The brand is known for high quality tailoring and the timeless nature of their products. They have a long standing partnership with Harris Tweed so this is a great place to shop for classic Scottish textiles alongside tartan.
If you are determined to take home tartan, you will find a selection of tartan garments. Depending on your budget, choose from tailored tartan suits to scarves and accessories made from authentic Scottish tartans. The attention to detail in their tailoring and the quality of their materials make each piece feel bespoke, whether you’re looking for a bold tartan pattern or a more subtle touch of the fabric in your outfit.
Visit Walker Slater at 18-20 Victoria Street, Edinburgh EH1 2HG.
Another tartan shop on the Royal Mile, Hector Russell Kiltmaker is known for its top-notch service. With a history dating back to 1928, this family-owned business continues to be one of Edinburgh’s most respected Highland dress specialists. Tourists often comment on the quality of their tartans and the depth of knowledge the staff share about Scottish traditions, making it a great choice for anyone interested in learning about their clan tartan or the art of kilt making.
The shop specialises in handmade made-to-measure kilts, ensuring the perfect fit for every customer. Choose from a wide range of tartans, allowing them to either select a pattern that reflects their family heritage or simply pick a design that suits their style. Prices for handmade woollen kilts start at £349 for an 8 yard kilt. Kilts take 6-8 weeks to be made and can be shipped worldwide.
The store also offers a variety of Highland dress accessories, including sporrans, sgian dubhs, and kilt pins, making it a one-stop shop for anyone preparing for a special event or seeking traditional attire.
Hector Russell Kiltmaker is located at 137-141 High St on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. You can also purchase products via the Hector Russell Kiltmaker online shop.
To book an appointment call on +44 131 558 1254 or email at 541@ewm.co.uk
The Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition on Castlemill in Edinburgh is a good place to visit to explore a bit of the history of tartan in Scotland. You’ll find it at 555 Castlehill, on the Royal Mile, just moments from Edinburgh Castle. So this is a good choice if you want to get a tartan fix whilst exploring the city’s historic centre.
The Tartan Weaving Mill offers a unique experience, combining Edinburgh’s only fully working commercial weaving mill with a shop filled with authentic Scottish goods. Visitors can watch traditional tartan being woven on looms, providing a fascinating insight into how Scotland’s iconic fabrics are made.
The shop stocks a wide range of quality tartan products such as kilts, scarves and blankets at reasonable prices. In addition to the wide variety of tartan items, the shop also stocks other Scottish gifts, such as whisky, shortbread, and jewellery, making it an excellent place to pick up a keepsake or gift. Staff are on hand to offer advice about choosing the right tartan.
Location: Visit the Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition at 555 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2ND.
Opening Hours: The Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition is open seven days a week, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Entry to the mill and exhibition is free.
Big Sky Campers Campervans for Hire
Scotland
Why not rent a campervan and head out of Edinburgh to experience Scotland’s wonderful natural landscape? Big Sky Campers are just outside Edinburgh and offer a pick up service from local transport stops. We are on the route of the airport bus and are a short local train ride from Edinburgh Waverley or Haymarket stations. All our campervans for hire come fully equipped with everything you will need for your road trip in Scotland. Everything is included in the price, including extra sets of bedding if requested.
Got a question? Give us a call.
+44 (0)7768 973804