Does a walking time establish a step-free route?

No. Walking estimates and map pins are navigation aids, not an audit of kerbs, gradients, surfaces or accessible entrances. Confirm the approach and any essential facilities before travelling.

Can I assume a hotel has a suitable accessible room?

No. Ask the property directly about the room, bathroom, entrance and any equipment you need before paying. A hotel’s location or map walking time does not establish room accessibility.

When is the market open?

14 November–3 January 2027 Markets 10am–10pm normally. 17 November 4pm–10pm; 24 December 10am–8pm; closed 25 December; 26 December noon–8pm; 31 December 10am–5pm; 1 January noon–8pm; 3 January 10am–6pm.

Plan with confidence

Edinburgh market accessibility

Choose a comfortable route and give yourself time to enjoy the stalls.

For East Gardens, use the accessible gates at the Mound between the galleries or Waverley Bridge; Market Street serves the south-side attractions. Some temporary ramps are steeper than 1:12, and West Gardens has steep, partly cobbled approaches. Sensory backpacks are available at the East Gardens information point.

Official access information / organiser enquiries

Use the Edinburgh map to find the arrival points, named toilet locations and Changing Places stops together. Check the street-level approach before setting off.

Open the Edinburgh access map

Step-free routes and surfaces

Edinburgh Waverley; approximately two minutes via the step-free Waverley Bridge exit.

Plan the whole journey from your station exit or parking bay to the market entrance. Choose a route you can comfortably manage in both directions, including after dark, and allow time for crossings and crowds. If you use a wheelchair or mobility scooter, ask about temporary ramps, gradients and turning space at the part of the market you want to visit.

Blue Badge parking

There is no event parking. Check council restrictions for Blue Badge parking: the organiser lists pay-and-display streets where badge holders can park free without a time limit, subject to the street’s rules.

Check the specific bay or car park’s restrictions, permitted hours and route to the entrance. For a multi-storey, check lift availability before committing to the journey. Allow a little flexibility if a bay is occupied when you arrive.

Council parking and Blue Badge information

Accessible toilets

An accessible toilet is near the Big Wheel; ask security for the key. All event sites have accessible toilets with baby changing.

If you need particular equipment or transfer space, ask about those details before travelling. Check any key arrangement and the closing time, especially for a late visit. Changing Places facilities have different equipment from a standard accessible toilet, so name the facility you need when making an enquiry.

Quieter times and sensory needs

Ask about sensory support and pick an entrance that lets you leave a busy area easily. Sensory backpacks are available at the East Gardens information point.

Pick a meeting point away from the busiest food queues and leave room for a break. A shorter first visit can help you decide which parts you would like to return to. If noise, lighting or waiting in line affects your visit, tell the team when arranging a session.

Assistance, companions and attractions

Essential companion tickets are available on request. Call 0131 623 3033; the festival line operates 10am–6pm daily during the event.

Ask about the specific ride, rink or activity you want, including any transfer and powered-wheelchair requirements. Arrange companion tickets before paying for the rest of the group, and check the assistance-dog arrangements for an indoor attraction separately from the outdoor market.