The Story of Romanes & Paterson
Holding one of the most venerable retail lineages in Edinburgh, Romanes & Paterson has traded on Princes Street since 1808. Founded as a fine clothiers and tartan drapers during the height of the Scottish Enlightenment, the firm received its Royal Appointment from Queen Victoria in 1842 following her celebrated tour of the Scottish Highlands, cementing its reputation as Scotland's premier purveyor of clan goods.
The grand multi-level storefront offers commanding views across the manicured lawns of Princes Street Gardens directly toward the crags of Edinburgh Castle. The ground floor showcases an exhaustive repository of Scottish clan tartans, fine cashmere wraps, lambswool blankets, and Shetland knitwear, alongside crystal glassware and traditional Scottish foods like Dundee marmalades and all-butter shortbread.
Ascending to the second floor, visitors discover the famous traditional tea room, where shoppers can take afternoon tea with warm scones and clotted cream while watching Edinburgh life pass along Princes Street. Romanes & Paterson remains an evocative blend of 19th-century retail grandeur and authentic Scottish hospitality.
Signature Specialties & Crafts
Key Venue Highlights
Historic Scottish retailer established in 1878 holding long royal lineage
Extensive clan tartan wall with hundreds of registered family tartans
Traditional second-floor Victorian tearoom with sweeping Castle views
“Head upstairs to the historic Victorian tearoom for warm scones while looking directly at Edinburgh Castle across Princes Street Gardens.”
Tax-Free & Overseas Shopping Advice
Store export assistance available for overseas mail order.
Direct overseas export zero-rates UK 20% VAT on qualifying purchases dispatched to non-UK residential addresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find my family clan tartan in stock on the day I visit?
Romanes & Paterson maintains stock of over 200 recognized Scottish clan tartans across scarves, ties, and woollen throws for immediate purchase.
Is afternoon tea in the tea room available to walk-in shoppers?
Walk-ins are welcomed throughout the day for morning coffee, light lunch, and afternoon tea service, with castle-view window tables available on a first-come basis.
Does the store assist with international VAT zero-rating?
Yes, full retail export paperwork and overseas shipping options are provided at the customer service desk on the ground floor.
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