Living in Craigleith

Sitting just north-west of the city centre, Craigleith is where Edinburgh exhales a little… fewer crowds, more trees, and a sense that life here is nicely under control.

This is a place of broad pavements and green pockets that feel like they’ve always been there (because many of them have). It’s urban living with a calm heartbeat - the kind of area where you pop out for milk and accidentally end up on a long walk because it’s simply pleasant to be outside.

Is Craigleith a good place to live?

If your definition of “good” includes peaceful streets, practical convenience, and the ability to get into town without breaking a sweat, then yes, Craigleith is a great place to live.

It’s popular with people who want city access without city chaos. Families appreciate the space and schools. Professionals like the easy commute. Long-term residents tend to stick around, which says a lot on its own.

There’s nothing flashy here, and that’s part of the appeal. Craigleith doesn’t chase trends. It’s steady, dependable, and quietly desirable - a neighbourhood that values comfort over hype.

What is the transport in Craigleith like?

Craigleith is very good at making Edinburgh feel smaller than it is. With its leafy streets, easy transport links, and proximity to both the city centre and green spaces, it gives you the best of both worlds.

Craigleith by bus

Buses run frequently through the area, connecting Craigleith to the city centre and beyond. Many Lothian Bus services whisk you into the city centre including the number 19, number 43 and number 47. The 22 service takes you to the Gyle Shopping Centre, whilst the 29 and 37 services go all the way through to Midlothian. They’re regular enough that you don’t need to plan your life around timetables... just turn up and go.

Craigleith by train

While there’s no station in Craigleith itself, Haymarket is close by and easy to reach. From there, the rest of Scotland (and the UK) opens up quickly.

Craigleith by car

Road access is one of Craigleith’s strong points. The A90, City Bypass, and routes to Edinburgh Airport are all within easy reach. It’s a handy base whether you’re commuting daily or escaping the city at weekends.

What are the schools in Craigleith like?

Craigleith is well placed for families, with a mix of highly regarded state and independent schools nearby.

For primary education, the catchment school for the area is Flora Stevenson Primary School, which is praised for its friendly atmosphere and strong community feel. Nearby options include Ferryhill Primary and Blackhall Primary, both of which have solid reputations.

For secondary education, students typically head to Broughton High School, known for its academic standards and range of extracurricular activities. If you’re considering independent schools, Fettes College and Stewart’s Melville College are within easy reach, offering private education with a long-standing Edinburgh pedigree.

With this variety and the safe, leafy streets of Craigleith, families have plenty of good options without having to travel far.

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What are the best things to do in Craigleith

Green space and fresh air are never far away when you live in Craigleith. Inverleith Park is just a short walk down the road and is one of the city’s biggest and most versatile urban parks, with open lawns, a boating pond, play areas, and space for sport or picnics.

Right beside that is the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a peaceful haven of winding paths, seasonal flowers, themed gardens, and cafés - perfect for a stroll, a relaxed weekend visit, or a bit of inspiration in a wonderful horticultural haven.

Fancy something a bit more social. Stockbridge is just down the road with its village-like high street of independent cafés, delis, and shops, plus a popular Sunday farmers’ market that always draws a crowd.

If you’re into long, unrestricted walks, the Water of Leith walkway is right there too. You can hop on the leafy riverside path and make your way through some of Edinburgh’s most scenic neighbourhoods - ideal for cycling, running, or just discovering new corners of the city on foot.

On the practical side, Craigleith Retail Park makes everyday life easy with big-name stores and essentials all in one place, so errands can be quick and straightforward when you’d rather be enjoying your weekend.

Types of property in Craigleith

Property in Craigleith leans elegant and solid. Expect traditional stone villas, smart terraces, and well-proportioned flats, alongside some more modern developments tucked neatly into the area. Homes here tend to be spacious, with good layouts and access to gardens or shared green space… a real bonus in the city. It’s an area where properties feel built to last, which fits the overall Craigleith personality nicely.

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Planning on moving to Craigleith?

Craigleith is for people who want Edinburgh living without the constant soundtrack of suitcase wheels and street performers. It’s calm, comfortable, and incredibly well connected – the sort of place that makes life feel manageable, even on a Monday morning.

If you’re considering a move, chatting with a local solicitor estate agent who really knows Craigleith is a smart first step. They’ll help you navigate the market and find a home that suits your lifestyle, whether that’s a family base, a city bolthole, or somewhere to settle in for the long term.

Find a solicitor estate agent in Craigleith

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