If you are in Edinburgh for work or study, you may fancy a change of scene and sit down for a while with a coffee, a book or your laptop. These four cafés offer interesting settings for a productive break.
A café isn’t a coworking space. Ask about their laptop policy, wifi and sockets, buy something while you stay, and avoid the busiest times.
1. Balcony Café (National Museum of Scotland)
National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh EH1 1JF
On level 3 of the National Museum of Scotland you’ll find the Balcony Café, overlooking the Grand Gallery. The light and architecture of the building make it a lovely place to read, go over your notes or take a coffee break.
The café serves drinks, cakes, snacks and soup. It isn’t a coworking space, so ask before setting up with your laptop, and avoid taking a table for too long when it’s busy.
Don’t count on a socket next to your seat. For a long working day or a video call, look for a space designed for that.
2. Söderberg the Meadows
27 Simpson Loan, Edinburgh EH3 9GG
Next to the Meadows, Söderberg serves coffee and Swedish baking in an area with a strong student vibe. A good option for an informal meeting or for reading through documents over a drink.
The Quartermile area lets you combine your visit with a walk in the park. If you need to work on a laptop, check the laptop policy and connection when you arrive, as conditions may vary depending on the table and how busy it is.
Choose a quiet time and order something. At lunchtime or when it’s full, it’s best to leave room for other customers.
3. Levels Café and Lounge
9C Holyrood Road, Edinburgh EH8 8FQ
Levels Café and Lounge belongs to the University of Edinburgh and is on the Moray House campus, on Holyrood Road. Its different seating areas and student atmosphere make it a good place to read, study or meet informally.
It serves breakfasts and light meals, such as soups, salads, baguettes and paninis. A handy option if you are at the bottom of the Royal Mile and need a break during the day.
Check wifi access and laptop use before you sit down. Not all visitors have the same university login details, and you can’t count on a socket at every table.
4. Waterstones (Princes Street)
128 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 4AD
The café at Waterstones on Princes Street lets you combine a coffee with books and views of Edinburgh Castle. A pleasant choice for reading, preparing a meeting or writing some notes in the New Town.
Being in a bookshop, you can also browse for a book or something to inspire you. However, it’s a popular spot and you won’t always find a free table.
Ask about laptops, wifi and sockets if you need them. To concentrate, try to go outside the busiest times, and avoid calls that might disturb others.
Café etiquette
Ask about laptop use, wifi and sockets. Avoid calls and meetings that disturb other customers, and give up your table when the café is full.