Charity shops flood the Scottish capital. There are so many to choose from it's a struggle to pick where to go. To make it a bit easier, here is a quick look into the top areas from where to get the finest variety of bargains.
1. Stockbridge
Its name could not fit it better, as it is a bridge to stock. Located North of the city centre, charity shops dress every mile of the area. It is an affluent neighbourhood, and in 2018 one of its streets was crowned the most expensive in Edinburgh. So, no wonder it is where you are most likely to get high-end second-hand items from brands like Gucci to Prada. But, bear in mind this means their prices might be slightly higher. If you’re on a tight budget, maybe there are other spots which adapt more to your need
What stores can you find?
The Bethany Shop - 46 Hamilton Pl, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH3 5AX
Chest Heart of Scotland (a personal favourite) -71-73 Raeburn Pl, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH4 1JG
Shelter Scotland - 104 Raeburn Pl, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH4 1HH
Did you know? The Shelter Scotland shop at Raeburn landed one of the top spots on Vogue's Best British Charity Shops ranking.
Shelter Scotland Shop at Raeburn place
2. Morningside
South of the capital is the hill of hidden treasures. Zigzag your way down the road starting with Shelter Scotland, down to Save the Children. It is the go-to-place for Edinburgh Napier students, as it is just a stone’s throw away from its Merchiston Campus. Morningside is also quite an affluent area of the city, but its prices vary greatly. Halfway down the road, The Bethany Shop is harder on the wallet, whilst Oxfam makes you almost feel bad for how little you’re paying.
What stores can you find?
Marie Curie: 340 Morningside Rd, Morningside, Edinburgh EH10 4QL
St Columba's Hospice Shop: 195-197 Morningside Rd, Morningside, Edinburgh EH10 4QP
Bethany Christian Trust: 93 Morningside Rd, Edinburgh EH10 4AY
Did you know? In 2021, The Bethany Trust shop received a donation of £4000 worth Ralph Lauren chairs.
Shop Window of The Bethany shop at Morningside
3. Newington
Located towards the South of the city, Newington is a popular student area. With over ten student accommodations in its surroundings and neighbour to the University of Edinburgh, it is the place to go for contemporary fashion. Newington is also the sole home for certain charity shops like Cats Protection and Samaritans. So, if you’re looking to escape from the usual stores, this might be the one for you! Also, not far away is Tollcross with the thrifting artery Lothian Road. Its Salvation Army shop tends to be full of brands popular amongst younger generations such as Urban Outfitters and H&M.
What stores can you find?
The Salvation Army: 36 Earl Grey St, Edinburgh EH3 9BN
Samaritans of Edinburgh Charity Shop: 36 Nicolson St, Newington, Edinburgh EH8 9EH
PDSA charity shop: 85 Nicolson St, Newington, Edinburgh EH8 9BZ
Did you know? Newington has the highest concentration of thrift shops in the city, with more than 15 stores.
Inside of PDSA charity shop at Newington
4. Leith
This overlooked port district is more than meets the eye. Characterised by being a less affluent area, Leith is where to find the bargains of bargains. Stores sell shirts for as little as 50p.
It is also a recommended stop for the ongoing hunt for outfits for University balls. St Columbas Hospice just off Leith Walk is host to gorgeous clothes. Although items are a bit more costly, when compared to their original retail price, one realises the store offers ridiculous deals. Dresses from brands like Watters and Watters, for just £34 when they usually cost over £250. Steal all the looks whilst not draining your bank account, a match made in heaven for students’ tight budgets.
What stores can you find?
British Heart Foundation - 23-29 Great Jct St, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 5HX
Cancer Research UK - 15 Newkirkgate, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6AD
All Together Edinburgh - 87 Leith Walk, Edinburgh EH6 8LX
Did you know? In January 2022, the Leith Collective launched a ‘no questions asked’ free coat exchange in Ocean Terminal for those who need to access warm clothes.
The Leith collective shop window
5. Honourable mention - Portobello
That one time a year that the weather is an ally, get yourself to the sunny side of the capital. The coastal neighbourhood is the ideal spot to get tanned whilst thrifting more summery items such as shorts and bathing suits. A beaming buy for a dazzling day.
What stores can you find?
Barnardo’s - 196 Portobello High St, Portobello, Edinburgh EH15 1EX
Marie Curie Charity Shop Portobello - 162 Portobello High St, Portobello, Edinburgh EH15 1AH
St Columba's Hospice - 195 Portobello High St, Portobello, Edinburgh EH15
Shop window of Barnardos at Portobello
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