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Portobello Library

4.3 (4 reviews)

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Recommended Reviews - Portobello Library

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18 years ago

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18 years ago

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17 years ago

Nice selection of books and an awsome local history section. Helpful staff know their way around the stacks.

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Signet Library - Afternoon tea

Signet Library

(15 reviews)

Old Town, Royal Mile, Newington

The space is absolutely iconic so beautiful. The columns and the library. It feels so formal but…read morecan be more relaxed. We saw others in parkas, joggers and leggings. The flavors are complex and definitely geared towards foodies. I went all in what was described as a Portuguese cheese roll which tasted like Gorgonzola very heavy which is one of my least favorite cheeses so it was a matter of personal preference. The desserts loved the banana rice pudding. It was divine and my favorite item. The chocolate mousse w/a cherry filling was to die for. The desserts were my favorites. Service is prompt and it's leisurely go at your own pace. We did not feel rushed even being 1 of the last tables remaining.

Edinburgh has no shortage of places for afternoon tea. After some internet research, we landed on…read morethe Signet Library. If you want a very quiet and peaceful experience, this is for you! If the quality of the bites matter, this is for you! Stepping into the tea room is literally like stepping into a library. Voices are hushed and tables are spaced out widely to allow for a very intimate experience. The savory tray was filled with delectable treats that were all so well made. The sweets tray that followed was equally gorgeous and delicious! You can really tell that they take pride in creating delicate bites that are very well thought out! So tasty! At 69 pounds, the tasting is more expensive than you'll find in some of the restaurants, but the ambiance and experience is very elevated!

Morningside Library

Morningside Library

(7 reviews)

Morningside

As far as libraries go there's not a lot wrong with Morningside library. It has books, and lots of…read morethem. It also has telephone directories, audiobooks, internet access and newspapers. Everything really. It even has a massive separate room for children's books, which is great, because let's be fair, children are irritating at the best of times, never mind in a library. Add this to its opulent setting (the ceiling above the main desk is magnificent), with its original pillars and cornicing and you've got the makings of something great. Why only 3 stars then, you cry? I just felt the whole place felt drab, tired if you will. The carpet looks like an enormous piece of baize, and the tables and chairs are old. A little makeover (and it wouldn't take much) and this would be a truly resplendent place to get your literature fix.

Morningside is an area with an above average age. Add to this the fact that older generations tend…read moreto frequent libraries more than younger ones and you start to get a picture of what this library is like - the World War II section is one of the most comprehensive for starters. That said, if you do belong to the two extremes of the age groups or have a young child this is a good set up for you. There is a large print section, massive audio book section (generally tapes) and a good range of children's books including some for sale at 10p each. If you aren't of these age ranges this isn't particularly set up for you, although there are books of interest. It's rarely quiet here and if you want to come out for a quick visit you will be welcomed in, but beware of the predominant age groups if you are one of those people who feels easily out of place.

Portobello Library - libraries - Updated May 2026

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