The West End of Edinburgh is a vibrant and picturesque area renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural attractions. With its convenient location close to the city center, the West End blends historic charm with modern amenities, making it one of the most desirable places to live in the capital. This guide will explore the best residential areas within the West End, highlighting their unique features, transportation options, services, ambiance, housing types, and average prices.
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West End Village
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West End Village is a charming community known for its unique boutiques, quaint cafes, and friendly atmosphere. This area attracts both families and professionals due to its excellent schools and vibrant community spirit.
Characteristics of the West End Village
* Culture: Community-focused with farmer's markets and local events
* Transportation: Excellent bus connections and within walking distance to the city center
* Services: Local shops, cafes, restaurants, and parks available
* Environment: Welcoming and vibrant with a strong local identity
Housing Options in the West End Village
Victorian and Edwardian townhouses, Apartments, Modern flats
Average Home Prices in the West End Village
* Buying: £350,000 – £600,000
* Renting: £1,200 – £1,800/month
Shandon
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Shandon is a predominantly residential neighborhood with a blend of traditional and modern homes. Known for its diverse community and proximity to local amenities, it offers a quieter suburban feel while still being close to the excitement of the city.
Characteristics of the Shandon
* Culture: Family-friendly with community events and local clubs
* Transportation: Good bus services and easy access to the city center
* Services: Schools, parks, shops, and supermarkets are nearby
* Environment: Relaxed and friendly with a close-knit community vibe
Housing Options in the Shandon
Semi-detached houses, Terraced houses, Flats
Average Home Prices in the Shandon
* Buying: £280,000 – £450,000
* Renting: £1,000 – £1,500/month
Tollcross
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Tollcross is a lively area known for its multicultural atmosphere and thriving nightlife. With numerous restaurants, bars, and theaters, this area is ideal for young professionals and students.
Characteristics of the Tollcross
* Culture: Diverse food scene with cultural festivals and markets
* Transportation: Excellent connections via bus and proximity to the subway
* Services: Unique shops, entertainment venues, and parks
* Environment: Energetic and vibrant with a youthful feel
Housing Options in the Tollcross
Flats, Apartments, Shared housing
Average Home Prices in the Tollcross
* Buying: £300,000 – £500,000
* Renting: £1,000 – £1,600/month
Haymarket
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Haymarket is a fast-developing area that combines rich history with modern living. It’s home to many professionals and offers an array of dining and shopping options along with excellent transport links.
Characteristics of the Haymarket
* Culture: Historical significance with modern amenities
* Transportation: Haymarket Train Station provides easy access to other cities
* Services: Shopping centers, cafes, and restaurants available
* Environment: Buzzing and cosmopolitan with a mix of old and new
Housing Options in the Haymarket
Contemporary apartments, Traditional tenements
Average Home Prices in the Haymarket
* Buying: £325,000 – £550,000
* Renting: £1,200 – £1,700/month
Fountainbridge
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Fountainbridge is a dynamic area known for its modern housing developments and proximity to entertainment options like cinemas and theaters, appealing particularly to younger residents and professionals.
Characteristics of the Fountainbridge
* Culture: Cultural activities and rich nightlife
* Transportation: Well-served by tram and bus services
* Services: Entertainment venues, cafes, and shops nearby
* Environment: Modern and casual with an accessible city vibe
Housing Options in the Fountainbridge
New builds, Luxury apartments, Shared flats
Average Home Prices in the Fountainbridge
* Buying: £400,000 – £700,000
* Renting: £1,400 – £2,000/month
Bruntsfield
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Bruntsfield offers a lovely blend of local cafes, parks, and traditional architecture, making it a prime spot for families and those who enjoy a more relaxed pace while still being close to the city.
Characteristics of the Bruntsfield
* Culture: Artistic vibe with local markets and community events
* Transportation: Excellent bus links and easy bike routes
* Services: Bookshops, cafes, and well-maintained parks
* Environment: Quaint and peaceful with a touch of urban life
Housing Options in the Bruntsfield
Victorian and Georgian flats, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Bruntsfield
* Buying: £350,000 – £600,000
* Renting: £1,200 – £1,800/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Edinburgh:
The best residential areas include West End Village, Shandon, Tollcross, Haymarket, Fountainbridge, and Bruntsfield.
Shandon and Bruntsfield are known for their family-friendly atmospheres, good schools, and parks.
Tollcross and Fountainbridge offer the best nightlife options with numerous bars, restaurants, and theaters.
Average housing prices range from £280,000 to £700,000 depending on the area and type of property.
Haymarket has excellent transport links, including a train station and tram services to various parts of the city.
Bruntsfield and Shandon offer several parks and green spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities.
The West End offers a variety of housing options including Victorian townhouses, modern flats, and shared accommodations.
Shandon tends to be more affordable compared to other areas like Fountainbridge and Haymarket.
Yes, areas like Shandon and Bruntsfield have access to highly-rated schools and educational institutions.
Tollcross and Fountainbridge are popular among students due to the variety of accommodations and amenities available.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Edinburgh:
The West End of Edinburgh offers a diverse range of residential options catering to various lifestyles and preferences. Whether you prefer the vibrant atmosphere of Tollcross, the family-friendly environments of Shandon and Bruntsfield, or the modern conveniences found in Haymarket and Fountainbridge, each area has something unique to offer. With excellent transport links, a rich cultural scene, and a community-oriented vibe, living in the West End of Edinburgh can be an enriching experience. Choosing the right area will depend on personal priorities such as proximity to amenities, budget, and lifestyle preferences, making this neighborhood a sought-after destination for residents.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in property. I combine technology and analysis to help you discover the best places to live.