Living in Barnton
Tucked away in the leafy north-west corner of Edinburgh, Barnton is one of the capital’s hidden gems. With elegant homes, a calm suburban vibe, and close proximity to green spaces, golf courses, and top-notch schools, Barnton is where city living meets countryside charm. It's the sort of place where deer sightings aren’t unusual - but neither is hopping on a bus to Princes Street for a bit of shopping or a cheeky cocktail.
Is Barnton a good place to live?
If your dream is to be close to the buzz of Edinburgh without giving up peace and privacy, Barnton is a winner. This affluent suburb is known for its attractive residential streets, excellent amenities, and top-tier schools, making it a big hit with families, professionals, and retirees alike.
Barnton is steeped in subtle elegance. With Cramond beach just down the road and Corstorphine Hill nearby for panoramic views and muddy dog walks, it’s a place where the outdoorsy and the homebodies can happily coexist. And don’t be fooled by its quiet façade - Barnton’s location makes it an ideal launchpad for commuting, travel, and weekends away.
What is the transport in Barnton like?
Despite its laid-back vibe, Barnton is very well connected. You can get to the heart of Edinburgh or the airport with surprising ease - perfect whether you’re a daily commuter or a frequent flyer.
Barnton by bus
Lothian Buses have you well covered. The No. 41 is your trusty steed into the city centre, taking you right to George Street without the hassle of parking. There are also frequent services to nearby neighbourhoods like Davidson’s Mains, Clermiston, and South Queensferry. If you’re heading to Edinburgh Airport, hop on a bus to the nearby Edinburgh Gateway station or take a short drive to the Park & Ride at Ingliston - super handy for longer trips.
Barnton by train
While Barnton itself doesn’t have a station, you’re just a short drive or bus ride from Edinburgh Gateway, South Gyle, or Haymarket stations. From there, you can zoom off to Glasgow, Fife, or even London if you're feeling adventurous.
Barnton by car
Driving from Barnton is a breeze. The A90 leads straight into the city or across the Queensferry Crossing into Fife, and the City Bypass is easily accessible for travelling further afield. Parking’s easier than in the centre, and traffic is generally less of a headache - unless the golf traffic is particularly intense!
What are the schools in Barnton like?
Barnton is in the catchment area for some of the best schools in Edinburgh. Cargilfield School, Scotland’s oldest prep school, is right on your doorstep and offers top-tier private education.
State school options include the ever-popular Davidson’s Mains Primary School, while older students might head to Royal High School, one of Edinburgh’s most respected secondaries. For younger children, there are a number of nurseries and early years centres in the area too.
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What are the best things to do in Barnton
There’s no shortage of things to do, whether you’re into scenic strolls, brunching, or brushing up on your history.
Start with a visit to Cramond, just a stone’s throw away, where you can walk out to Cramond Island at low tide or enjoy a coffee by the waterfront. Barnton is also a short drive from Lauriston Castle, a local gem offering gorgeous grounds and fascinating tours (plus some very photogenic peacocks).
Golfers will be in heaven. Barnton is home to The Royal Burgess Golfing Society, one of the oldest golf clubs in the world. Whether you’re swinging clubs or just enjoying a drink in the clubhouse, it’s a classy local perk.
And if you're craving more action, head into nearby Stockbridge or Corstorphine for trendy cafes, indie shops, and a lively village atmosphere.
Types of property in Barnton
Property in Barnton tends to be spacious, stylish, and highly sought after. Think handsome stone villas, generous bungalows, tasteful townhouses, and lovely flats with leafy views. Whether you’re after a modern family pad or a classic detached home with a garden big enough for a trampoline and a BBQ (or two), you’ll find plenty to swoon over.
Prices are typically on the higher end compared to other parts of Edinburgh, but many say it’s worth every penny for the quality of life. You’ll find property listings that combine architectural charm with modern comforts, and the vibe across the area is friendly, safe, and community-oriented.
SEARCH HOMES FOR SALE IN BARNTON
Planning on moving to Barnton?
With its close-knit community feel, Barnton offers more than just a place to live - it’s a place to feel at home. And whether you’re exploring the coastal beauty of nearby Cramond, teeing off at a world-class golf course, or just enjoying the calm leafy streets, life in Barnton tends to feel like a breath of fresh air. So, if you’re planning your next big move, Barnton might just be your perfect match.
Find a solicitor estate agent in Barnton
You can search our directory of local ESPC solicitor agents. Simply type in Barnton and we’ll give you the contact details and all the information you need on the agent.
FAQs about living in Barnton
Barnton is located within the catchment area for some of Edinburgh’s most highly regarded schools. Families have access to excellent private education options nearby, as well as a selection of sought-after state schools for both primary and secondary levels. The area is also well served by nurseries and early years centres, making it ideal for families with young children. For more details on the best schools in Barnton, 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 Barnton on espc.com. To search properties by school catchment area, click here.
For details on school catchment areas in Barnton, 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 Barnton is £366,747. This figure is based on properties marketed and sold through ESPC, in the 3-month period ending on 30/04/2025.
There are no new housing developments or upcoming infrastructure projects currently underway in Barnton.
For details on council tax bands and charges in Barnton, please refer to the City of Edinburgh Council website.
Barnton boasts several attractions suitable for families. Lauriston Castle offers guided tours and expansive gardens perfect for picnics. Cramond Beach and Foreshore provide scenic walks and opportunities for birdwatching. Cramond Island, accessible during low tide, presents an adventurous outing with its WWII fortifications. Corstorphine Hill, adjacent to Barnton, features woodland trails and panoramic city views. Golf enthusiasts can explore the historic Royal Burgess Golfing Society, the world's oldest golfing society.
Barnton offers various recreational amenities. The Barnton Park Lawn Tennis Club provides tennis facilities for all ages. Tartan Badminton Club meets at the Royal High School, welcoming players seeking recreational matches. For literary enthusiasts, the Barnton Park View Mobile Library Service visits the area every four weeks, offering a selection of books and resources.
The Cramond and Barnton Community Council actively engages residents through meetings and local initiatives. A notable event is the North Edinburgh Community Festival, which relocated to Barnton, aiming to foster inclusivity and community spirit.
Barnton at a glance*
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