Living in Bruntsfield

Spend a morning in Bruntsfield and you’ll quickly get the idea. The day might start with coffee from a cosy café, followed by a wander across Bruntsfield Links as dog walkers and early joggers pass by. There’s a rhythm to the place - unhurried, but never dull.

Sitting just south of Edinburgh’s city centre, Bruntsfield has a way of drawing people in and keeping them there. Its mix of residents gives it life, from students to long-time locals, all sharing the same streets, shops, and routines. It feels less like a district and more like a neighbourhood in the truest sense.

Is Bruntsfield a good place to live?

If you like good coffee, green space, and the ability to walk basically everywhere, you’ll be smitten.

Bruntsfield has a warm, neighbourhood feel that’s hard to fake. The main thoroughfare, Bruntsfield Place, is lined with independent shops, delis, and bakeries that somehow convince you that you do need artisanal olive oil at 10am on a Tuesday. There’s a strong community vibe too... think local events, friendly shopkeepers, and plenty of familiar faces once you’ve been around a while.

It’s also perfectly placed. You’re close enough to the city centre for an easy commute, but far enough away to avoid the full tourist whirlwind of the Royal Mile.

Property prices are, as you might expect for Edinburgh, on the higher side but what you’re paying for is location, charm, and a lifestyle that’s hard to beat.

What is the transport in Bruntsfield like?

Bruntsfield is very well-connected, whether you’re commuting to the city centre or venturing elsewhere in the capital or beyond.

Bruntsfield by bus

Bruntsfield is well-served by Lothian Buses, offering several routes and buses that are frequent and reliable. Along with whisking you quickly into the city centre, the number 11 continues to Newhaven, service 15 goes as far as Portobello and the number 16 takes passengers to Leith before terminating at Silverknowes. The 23 service also runs through the heart of Edinburgh before continuing to Stockbridge and Trinity. Running to Ocean Terminal in one direction and the Gyle Shopping Centre in the other, the 36 service is ideal for alternative shopping options to what’s on offer in the city centre.

Bruntsfield by car

Driving is doable, but parking can be a bit of a strategic sport thanks to permit zones. The upside? You’re already so central that most journeys are short - or completely unnecessary.

Bruntsfield by rail

There’s no train station right in Bruntsfield, but Haymarket Station is just a short bus ride or a 20-minute walk away. From there, you can hop on trains across Scotland and the UK.

What are the schools in Bruntsfield like?

Bruntsfield is a popular pick for families, and schools are a big reason why. Bruntsfield Primary School has a strong reputation and sits right in the heart of the community. For secondary education, many students go on to Boroughmuir High School, which is consistently well-regarded. Add in nurseries, clubs, and plenty of green space for after-school energy-burning, and it’s easy to see why families settle here for the long haul.

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What are the best things to do in Bruntsfield

Bruntsfield is less about ticking off tourist attractions and more about living well on a random Wednesday.

Start with Bruntsfield Links park and neighbouring The Meadows... perfect for picnics, casual strolls, or lying on the grass pretending you don’t have emails to answer.

Then there’s the food and drink scene. From cosy brunch spots to bakeries that will ruin supermarket bread forever, you’re spoiled for choice. Independent cinemas like Dominion Cinema add a touch of old-school charm for film nights.

Feeling active? There are tennis courts, golf at Bruntsfield Links (one of the oldest in the world, no big deal), and plenty of yoga studios if that’s more your speed.

And when you do fancy a dose of big-city buzz, the rest of Edinburgh is right on your doorstep.

Types of property in Bruntsfield

Bruntsfield is classic Edinburgh territory: think elegant tenement flats with high ceilings, bay windows, and just enough creaky floorboards to remind you of their history.

In terms of other property in Bruntsfield, you’ll also find larger Victorian and Edwardian homes, particularly on the quieter streets, along with some modern developments tucked in here and there.

Space comes at a premium, but what you lose in square footage, you gain in character - and a postcode that people tend to hang onto.

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Planning on moving to Bruntsfield?

If you’re thinking about making the move, it’s worth chatting with a local solicitor estate agent who knows the area well. Whether you’re after a bright tenement flat, a family home, or just somewhere close enough to your favourite bakery, they’ll help you find your Bruntsfield fit. Fair warning though: once you’re here, you might not want to leave.

Find a solicitor estate agent in Bruntsfield

You can search our directory of local ESPC solicitor agents. Simply type in Bruntsfield and we’ll give you the contact details and all the information you need on the agent.