Living in Musselburgh

Musselburgh lies on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth, at the mouth of the River Esk, about six miles east of Edinburgh. As the largest town in East Lothian, it offers an ideal location for those seeking proximity to the capital while enjoying convenient access to the countryside and coast. Offering a beautiful blend of city, seaside and suburbs, Musselburgh is a popular destination for families, couples and young professionals, offering a diverse selection of properties to suit all budgets.

Is Musselburgh a good place to live?

Home to around 22,000 residents, Musselburgh is the region's largest town and the closest East Lothian town to Edinburgh. It has a strong sense of community, with various local events, markets, and activities that bring residents together.

Along with the convenient commuter links to the capital, Musselburgh is much-loved for its historical attractions, good schooling options, abundance of amenities and idyllic location by the coast.

With a variety of affordable properties from seafront flats, spacious family homes, riverside residences and beautiful bungalows, Musselburgh is a fantastic place to live for all kinds of lifestyles.

What is the transport in Musselburgh like?

Whether you're a Monday to Friday commuter for work or plan to visit Edinburgh's attractions on a whim, Musselburgh's location just six miles from the capital is a huge benefit to prospective home buyers. You can reach central Edinburgh in just 20 minutes by car, while several bus routes will take you to Princes Street in under an hour. If you're pressed for time, trains from Musselburgh station get you to Edinburgh Waverley in just six minutes.

Musselburgh by bus

Musselburgh is very well connected to Edinburgh by bus, and indeed, with other parts of East Lothian and Midlothian. Several Lothian Buses services run from Musselburgh to the city centre of Edinburgh including the routes 26, 44 and 113.

Along with taking you from Musselburgh to Edinburgh, the East Coast Buses service 124 runs all the way to North Berwick in the other direction, making many stops along the coastal stretch of East Lothian including Longniddry, Aberlady and Gullane. To reach towns in the heart of the region, you can take the 106 service which passes through Wallyford and Tranent on its way to Haddington.

Musselburgh also has convenient bus links to Midlothian, with service 48 running from the town to Gorebridge, via major towns including Dalkeith, Newtongrange, Easthouses and Mayfield.

Musselburgh by rail

Musselburgh Train Station is situated in the town's southwest corner, adjacent to Queen Margaret University. For those residing in Musselburgh's eastern end, Wallyford Train Station is within walking distance. Both stations provide direct routes to Edinburgh Waverley, where passengers can easily transfer to other trains.

Musselburgh by car

Such is the town's close proximity to Edinburgh, you can reach the city centre by car in as little as 20 mins. Drivers can reach Edinburgh City Bypass in around 5 mins from the town centre, from where access to the southern and western parts of Edinburgh is achievable without passing through the busy city centre.

What are the schools in Musselburgh like?

If you're thinking about relocating to Musselburgh, you'll find a wide range of schools available for students of all ages.

Along with a good offering of public nurseries for children entering early learning stages, Musselburgh has a variety of primary schools. There are four state primary schooling options; Campie Primary School, Musselburgh Burgh Primary School, Pinkie St Peter's Primary School and Stoneyhill Primary School, as well as Loretto RC Primary School and Spark of Genius Harbour Point School which provides support and schooling for special needs pupils.

With a school motto of "Striving for Excellence, Caring for All" and school values of "Respect, Honesty and Determination", the public high school in the town is Musselburgh Grammar School. A proud and vibrant educational establishment in the heart of Musselburgh, Musselburgh Grammar School is the fourth oldest school in Scotland. Loretto, one of Britain’s top boarding schools, is also located in Musselburgh, and offers pre-school, junior, and senior programs.

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What are the best things to do in Musselburgh

As well as quick and easy access to the world class attractions of Edinburgh, Musselburgh has plenty on offer in terms of things to see and do. The town offers a diverse mix of entertainment, sightseeing spots and outdoor leisure activities.

One of the most popular places for fun is Musselburgh Racecourse, a historic and highly regarded horse racing venue founded way back in 1816. Featuring Flat Racing & National Hunt Racing, the racecourse hosts several key races throughout the year including the Edinburgh Cup, the Scottish Sprint Cup, the New Year’s Day Meeting and Stobo Castle Ladies Day.

In keeping with the proud golfing heritage of East Lothian as a whole, Musselburgh boasts a wonderful golf course. Musselburgh Links is one of the oldest golf courses in the world and is an original 'Open Championship' venue.

Lovers of cultural heritage will love a visit to Newhailes House & Gardens, where you can explore a historic 17th-century estate with guided tours of the mansion. It's also worth spending time in the botanical bliss of the estate's gardens, which are blooming marvellous. You find an equally beautiful horticultural haven at Inveresk Lodge Garden, a tranquil National Trust garden featuring beautiful flowers, shrubs, and a peaceful pond, perfect for a relaxing walk.

Fisherrow Harbour is ideal place for scenic walks, and on sunny days, you simply have to spend some time on the soft sands of Musselburgh beach. For a more adventurous day, cycle along the John Muir Way coastal trail, which passes through Musselburgh, offering stunning sea views.

One of Musselburgh's longest running family businesses, S.Luca Ice Cream have been crafting creamy luxury ice cream for over a century. Much loved by the locals, you'll find the S.Luca ice cream factory on the high street, alongside its inviting cafe and shop where you can enjoy classic and unique flavours of ice cream.

Other notable attractions in Musselburgh include the Brunton Theatre, Loretto Chapel, Musselburgh Museum and the Musselburgh Lagoons.

Types of property in Musselburgh

Musselburgh offers a diverse range of properties, ensuring you can find your perfect home regardless of your preferences. Whether you're drawn to the character of a quaint cottage, the sleek design of a contemporary development, or the timeless appeal of a period home, there's something for everyone. Explore a wide selection of detached and semi-detached family houses, charming flats, seafront homes, luxury residences, and more on ESPC.

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Planning on moving to Musselburgh?

If you're picturing a life by the coast and love the buzz of the big city, Musselburgh could be just the place for you. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, looking to downsize, or a family seeking your forever home, Musselburgh has something for everyone.

Find a solicitor estate agent in Musselburgh

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