Newington is where Edinburgh’s past and present collide in the best possible way. One moment you’re admiring a grand Victorian façade, the next you’re tucking into international cuisine or browsing vinyl in a tucked-away record shop. It’s an area that’s effortlessly cool without trying too hard… leafy, lively, and a little bit eclectic.

Situated just south of the Old Town, Newington has long been a favourite for students, families, and professionals who want city buzz with a slightly calmer pace. With Holyrood Park on one side and buzzing Clerk Street on the other, you’ll never be short of things to do… whether that’s hiking up Arthur’s Seat or catching a gig at The Queen’s Hall.

Is Newington a good place to live?

Living in Newington means being within easy walking distance of Edinburgh’s city centre, but far enough away that you won’t have to dodge tour groups on your daily coffee run. It’s vibrant, diverse, and packed with independent businesses that give it real character.

The housing stock is impressive too... think spacious period flats with ornate details, high ceilings, and more natural light than you’ll know what to do with. Prices are on the higher side compared with further-out neighbourhoods, but the location and lifestyle more than justify it.

What is the transport in Newington like?

This is central-ish Edinburgh, so you’ve got options galore.

Newington by bus

Buses are frequent, reliable, and go everywhere you’ll ever need. Lothian Buses run along Clerk Street pretty much every few minutes, connecting you to Princes Street, Leith, and beyond.

Newington by train

Waverley Station is about a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride, which means the rest of Scotland (and England) is easy to reach.

Newington by car

Let’s be honest, having a car here is more of a luxury than a necessity. Parking can be tricky, and with so many buses plus cycle routes, most residents stick to public transport or two wheels. That said, if you do drive, you’re well placed for the city bypass and onward routes.

What are the schools in Newington like?

Families have plenty of choice here. The area is within reach of several well-regarded primary schools (like Sciennes Primary) and high schools (such as James Gillespie’s High), both of which are popular with local parents. Plus, the University of Edinburgh is right on the doorstep, so the academic vibe runs deep through the area.

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What are the best things to do in Newington

Newington may look leafy and calm, but it’s buzzing with things to see, do, and eat. Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park are right on your doorstep - whether you fancy a proper hike or a gentle stroll, the views over Edinburgh never disappoint.

Food lovers are spoiled. Clerk Street and surrounding lanes are packed with cafés, bakeries, and restaurants serving everything from artisan pastries to ramen, Middle Eastern dishes, and vegan treats. There are cosy pubs for a pint and slick cocktail bars for a night out, so you can eat and drink your way through the neighbourhood.

Culture isn’t far away either. The Queen’s Hall hosts concerts from classical to jazz, while the Old Town is a short walk for theatres, museums, and Fringe Festival fun. Newington also has a strong sense of community, with street markets, seasonal fairs, and pop-up events keeping things lively. Independent shops, vintage stores, and hidden courtyards make wandering the streets a joy.

Whether you’re hiking, eating, shopping, or just relaxing with a coffee, Newington blends city energy with neighbourhood charm - the perfect spot to live, explore, and feel at home.

Types of property in Newington

Housing here is dominated by handsome tenements and grand townhouses. Flats are spacious, with period charm in spades, while larger properties suit families looking for long-term roots. A few modern developments are scattered around, offering sleek alternatives for those after contemporary living.

SEARCH HOMES FOR SALE IN NEWINGTON

Planning on moving to Newington?

If you’re after a neighbourhood that blends convenience, character, and culture, Newington ticks every box. It’s close to the action but calm enough to call home, with history on every corner and green space just around the bend. From first-time buyers to growing families, it’s an area that adapts to your lifestyle… and makes it very hard to leave.

Find a solicitor estate agent in Newington

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

FAQs about living in Newington

Families are well served. Sciennes Primary is one of Edinburgh’s most sought-after schools, while James Gillespie’s High has a strong reputation and a modern campus. Add in the proximity to the University of Edinburgh, and education is truly woven into the fabric of the area. For more details on the best schools in Newington, 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 Newington on espc.com. To search properties by school catchment area, click here.

For details on school catchment areas in Newington, 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 Newington is £397,948. This figure is based on properties marketed and sold through ESPC, in the 3-month period ending on 31/08/2025.

There are no new housing developments or upcoming infrastructure projects currently underway in Newington.

Newington, located in southern Edinburgh, offers a variety of family-friendly activities. The area boasts several parks and open spaces, such as the nearby Holyrood Park, which features Arthur's Seat, a dormant volcano offering panoramic views of the city. Additionally, the Meadows, a large public park, is popular for picnics, sports, and children's play areas. Families can also explore the nearby National Museum of Scotland, which offers interactive exhibits suitable for children. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh provides a tranquil setting with diverse plant collections.

Newington is home to a range of cultural and recreational facilities. The King's Theatre, located nearby, hosts a variety of performances, including family-friendly shows. The area also has several community centres offering classes and activities for all ages. For sports enthusiasts, the nearby Meadowbank Sports Centre provides facilities for athletics, swimming, and other sports. The area is also rich in history, with several historical buildings and sites to explore, providing educational opportunities for families.

Newington hosts a variety of community groups and events suitable for families. The Newington Community Council organizes regular meetings and events to engage local residents. Additionally, the area hosts seasonal festivals, such as the Newington Winter Festival, featuring markets, performances, and activities for children. Local schools and organizations also offer workshops and classes for children and families, fostering a strong sense of community. Families can stay informed about upcoming events through local noticeboards and community websites.

Newington at a glance*

Average selling price
£397,948
Median time to sell
28 days
Average % of Home Report achieved
103.1%
Most popular property type
2 bedroom flat

To find out more about the local market, contact your local ESPC agent today. Find an agent

* Figures are based on properties marketed and sold through ESPC. Home Report valuations relate to properties where the Home Report was available on espc.com. Figures relate to the 3 month period ending on 31/08/2025