Living in Stockbridge
Hugging the meandering bends of the Water of Leith, just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh’s city centre, Stockbridge has blossomed into one of the capital’s most vibrant and desirable neighbourhoods, where historic charm meets modern city living. With its cobbled streets, peaceful village feel, artisan shops and leafy riverside walks, this neighbourhood is a little pocket of urban calm... and a total dream to live in.
From lazy brunches and independent boutiques to second-hand bookshops, vintage finds and Sunday market strolls, Stockbridge offers a lifestyle that feels both relaxed and full of character. Think countryside vibes, with city perks.
Is Stockbridge a good place to live?
Stockbridge has long been one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in Edinburgh – and for good reason. It’s picturesque, full of charm, and oozes community spirit. The village atmosphere is irresistible, whether you’re a young professional, creative soul, growing family or downsizer looking for peace without giving up culture.
It's easy to see why it’s a local favourite. There are plenty of amenities, brilliant cafes and restaurants, serene green spaces (hello, Inverleith Park and the Royal Botanic Garden), and even the occasional bagpiper to remind you you’re still in the capital.
And let’s not forget the property in Stockbridge. You’ll find elegant townhouses to traditional flats in tenement blocks with buckets of character, it’s the kind of place you move to and never want to leave.
What is the transport in Stockbridge like?
For a place that feels so laid-back, Stockbridge is surprisingly well-connected. Whether you’re heading into the city centre, commuting out of town, or just popping down to Leith for a wander, transport options are plentiful.
Stockbridge by bus
Lothian Buses has you covered with regular services running through and around Stockbridge. Routes like the 24, 29, 36 and 42 make it easy to get to Princes Street, the West End, or further afield without too much fuss. And if you’re heading to Edinburgh Airport, just hop onto one of the city centre Airlink services from Waverley.
Stockbridge by foot or bike
One of Stockbridge’s greatest joys? It’s very walkable. A scenic 15-minute stroll along the Water of Leith will land you smack in the middle of town. Fancy a cycle? The old railway paths and riverside trails make two-wheeled travel an absolute delight (and a peaceful one at that).
Stockbridge by car
While you might not need a car living here, there’s decent road access if you do drive. Queen Street and the A90 get you to the city bypass or across the Forth, and parking options – while limited in parts – are manageable with a permit. But honestly, you may find your car gathers dust.
What are the schools in Stockbridge like?
Stockbridge is popular with families for a reason... Its catchment schools are excellent. Stockbridge Primary School is right in the heart of the area and has a warm, community-driven reputation. Nearby, you’ll find Flora Stevenson Primary and Broughton Primary, both highly rated.
For secondary education, Broughton High School is the main option and is well regarded, particularly for its arts programme. There are also a number of top-performing independent schools nearby, including Fettes College, Stewart’s Melville, Mary Erskine’s, and Edinburgh Academy.
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What are the best things to do in Stockbridge
Where to begin? Sundays are sacred in Stockbridge thanks to the legendary Stockbridge Market – a weekly treasure trove of street food, artisan produce, craft stalls and irresistible baked goods.
Nature lovers can unwind in Inverleith Park, soak up the beauty of the Royal Botanic Garden, or meander along the Water of Leith Walkway. Culture vultures are a short hop from Edinburgh’s galleries, theatres and museums, but Stockbridge itself is dotted with artistic gems – not to mention a few great charity shops full of surprise finds.
Foodies will love the area’s bistros and cafes – The Scran & Scallie, and The Pantry are just the beginning. And if you fancy a pint, the pubs here are as charming as the streets they’re on. Think roaring fires, local ales and good chat.
Types of property in Stockbridge
Stockbridge is a dreamscape of beautiful homes. You’ll find elegant Georgian and Victorian townhouses, classic tenement flats with huge bay windows and high ceilings, and the occasional quirky mews property tucked away down a quiet lane.
There’s a mix of rental and buying options, and while prices can be on the higher side (this is one of Edinburgh’s most desirable areas, after all), you’re paying for a lifestyle that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re after a stylish one-bed, a family-size flat or an appealing townhouse, Stockbridge has something special waiting.
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Planning on moving to Stockbridge?
Living in Stockbridge offers a unique blend of cosmopolitan flair and village-like charm. It's perfect for those seeking a relaxed, community-focused lifestyle while staying close to the heart of Edinburgh’s cultural and professional life. With its vibrant independent shops, riverside walks, and strong sense of local identity, Stockbridge continues to be one of the city’s most desirable places to live. If you're ready to make the move to Stockbridge, take the next step and explore all houses and flats for sale today.
Find a solicitor estate agent in Stockbridge
You can search our directory of local ESPC solicitor agents. Simply type in Stockbridge and we’ll give you the contact details and all the information you need on the agent.
FAQs about living in Stockbridge
Stockbridge is popular with families for good reason - its local schools have an excellent reputation. The primary school located in the heart of the area is known for its strong sense of community and welcoming atmosphere. Several other nearby primary options are also highly regarded. For secondary education, the main local school is well respected, particularly for its focus on the arts. Additionally, the area is close to a number of top-performing independent schools, offering families a wide range of educational choices. For more details on the best schools in Stockbridge, click here.
As the national body for supporting quality and improvement of learning and teaching, Education Scotland is a great place to look for information on school performance. You can use the website to search for an inspection report in a specific school.
We list the school catchment for every property listing in Stockbridge on espc.com. To search properties by school catchment area, click here.
For details on school catchment areas in Stockbridge, please refer to the City of Edinburgh Council website.
You can use their interactive catchment map to find which schools are in your catchment area.
The average price of homes in Stockbridge is £335,831. This figure is based on properties marketed and sold through ESPC, in the 3-month period ending on 31/05/2025.
There are no new housing developments or upcoming infrastructure projects currently underway in Stockbridge.
For details on council tax bands and charges in Stockbridge, please refer to the City of Edinburgh Council website.
Families in Stockbridge have lots of great options. For outdoor fun, there's Inverleith Park with playgrounds, a boating pond, plenty of sports pitches and picnic spaces, plus the scenic Water of Leith walkway through Stockbridge and Dean Village. Cultural hotspots include the Royal Botanic Garden and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (Modern One and Two), which offer exhibitions, sculpture trails, kid-friendly events, and cafés.
Stockbridge offers cultural and recreational facilities such as the historic Raeburn Place sports ground (hosting rugby, cricket, tennis), The Grange Club for cricket and hockey, and the charming Stockbridge Public Library, which runs story‑time and knitting clubs for under‑fives. The area also features independent shops, artisan delis, and cafés along Raeburn Place and St Stephen Street, all contributing to its friendly, village-like atmosphere.
Community life in Stockbridge is lively. Every Sunday, the Jubilee Gardens farmers’ market draws families looking for street food, crafts, and local produce. The annual nine-day Stockbridge Community Festival in late June includes the popular Duck Race on the Water of Leith, raising funds for local charities. Other events include creative-colonies gatherings, festive fairs, and park-based festivals like the Christmas Charity Festival in Inverleith Park with family runs, Santa visits, and parades.
Stockbridge at a glance*
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