Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh

6 neighbourhoods to explore in Edinburgh

When you visit Edinburgh, don’t stop at the Old and New Towns: every neighbourhood has a personality of its own. Get your bearings first on our free walking tour of the Old Town.

Old Town

Edinburgh’s historic heart, the old walled city built around the Castle.

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New Town

The Georgian quarter of the Scottish Enlightenment, with elegant streets, squares and gardens.

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Leith

Edinburgh’s old port, a neighbourhood full of character with some of the city’s best restaurants.

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Stockbridge

A bohemian, village-like neighbourhood with independent shops and a Sunday farmers’ market.

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West End

Theatres, concert halls, great restaurants and elegant Georgian architecture west of the centre.

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Southside

Residential districts south of the Old Town, with a student vibe, The Meadows and independent shops.

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What not to miss in each neighbourhood

One must-see in each of the six neighbourhoods.

St Giles’ Cathedral

The High Kirk of Edinburgh on the Royal Mile, with its crown spire and the stunning Thistle Chapel.

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Calton Hill

The ‘Athens of the North’, with its monuments and some of the best views of the city.

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Royal Yacht Britannia

The yacht that carried Queen Elizabeth II around the world for over 40 years, now moored in Leith.

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Royal Botanic Garden

One of the UK’s finest botanic gardens, with glasshouses and skyline views. Free entry to the garden.

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Dean Village

A former milling village on the Water of Leith, ten minutes from Princes Street, where time seems to stand still.

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The Meadows

The students’ favourite park, just south of the Old Town, perfect for a picnic on sunny days.

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