Living in Craiglockhart
Tucked into the southwest of the Edinburgh, Craiglockhart is the kind of neighbourhood that makes you feel like you’re sneaking away from the bustle of the capital, even though you’re only a 15-minute bus ride from the city centre. Think leafy streets, grand old villas and parks that beg for picnics or dog walks. It’s quiet-ish, verdant and surprisingly alive all at once... a little gem hiding in plain sight.
Is Craiglockhart a good place to live?
A big, hearty, enthusiastic yes. If you love green spaces, walks that leave you breathless (and not just from the hills), and a mix of calm streets with weekend buzz, Craiglockhart ticks all the boxes. Families, students, retirees, and anyone who wants a touch of suburban peace without disappearing from city life all fit right in.
Housing in Craiglockhart? You’re not going to get a shoebox apartment for bargain prices, but you will get period charm, space for the garden you’ve always dreamed of, and the kind of house that makes friends say, “Wow, you live here?”.
What is the transport in Craiglockhart like?
Craiglockhart’s transport options strike a sweet balance: you can feel well-connected without the chaos of city commuting.
Craiglockhart by bus
Several Lothian Bus routes criss-cross the area, linking you to the city centre, nearby districts, and even Edinburgh Airport. Buses are regular enough that you rarely need to check the timetable obsessively, and you’ll probably spot the same friendly faces on your morning commute.
Craiglockhart by train
While Craiglockhart doesn’t have its own train station, nearby Slateford and Haymarket stations put you on the network in minutes, connecting you to Glasgow, the Borders, or even further afield.
Craiglockhart by car
Driving is easy, with convenient routes into central Edinburgh or out towards the Pentlands and beyond. Traffic exists, of course, but it’s never quite as bothersome as in more congested parts of the city. And with leafy roads and quiet side streets, cruising around Craiglockhart can actually feel... pleasant.
What are the schools in Craiglockhart like?
Craiglockhart Primary is small but mighty, loved by parents who appreciate its friendly vibe. For older kids, nearby secondary schools like Boroughmuir High School bring strong academics and extracurriculars. Basically, if you’ve got kids, you won’t be tearing your hair out over finding the right school.
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What are the best things to do in Craiglockhart
Craiglockhart is all about balance - the great outdoors and quiet retreats blend seamlessly with weekend activities and a healthy dose of local culture. The Craiglockhart Hills are legendary for walks, panoramic views, and that sneaky bit of exercise disguised as fun. Their winding paths are perfect for runners, dog-walkers, and anyone who likes their fresh air served with a side of city skyline.
Just a short stroll away, the Water of Leith Walkway traces a peaceful route through parks and past art studios, meandering all the way into the heart of Edinburgh. It’s ideal for cycling, strolling, or simply clearing your head while spotting the occasional heron along the way.
Back in the neighbourhood, Craiglockhart’s cafés and pubs are the heart of its laid-back charm. Whether you’re sipping artisan coffee, tucking into a lazy brunch, or rounding off the week with a hearty dinner, there’s always a cosy corner waiting. And that friendly community spirit? It’s everywhere. Seasonal events, local markets, and casual meet-ups give the area a gentle buzz without ever tipping into chaos.
For a touch of history, the old Craiglockhart War Hospital - famous for its connection to World War I poets - adds a layer of heritage to this leafy enclave. And when you’re craving a bit more city sparkle, Edinburgh’s festivals, theatres, and shopping streets are just a short bus ride away, ready when you are.
Types of property in Craiglockhart
Craiglockhart’s homes have charm in spades. Think Victorian and Edwardian villas with period features, modernised family homes with gardens, and some contemporary builds tucked into quieter streets. Whether you’re after space for a family, a home office with a view, or a garden for weekend barbecues, Craiglockhart has options.
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Planning on moving to Craiglockhart?
Craiglockhart isn’t just somewhere to live - it’s somewhere to actually enjoy living. Walkable streets, hills to climb, cafés to linger in, and a neighbourhood that somehow balances quiet charm with friendly energy.
If you’re planning to make the leap, talk to a local estate agent. They’ll help you find your dream spot, whether that’s a grand old villa, a modern family home, or a cosy hideaway near the hills where you can watch the sun set in peace.
Find a solicitor estate agent in Craiglockhart
You can search our directory of local ESPC solicitor agents. Simply type in Craiglockhart and we’ll give you the contact details and all the information you need on the agent.
FAQs about living in Craiglockhart
Schools in Craiglockhart have a great reputation, with a strong sense of community and a supportive atmosphere that parents really value. Class sizes tend to be manageable, teachers are engaged, and there’s a genuine focus on helping children thrive both in and out of the classroom. From early years through to secondary education, families here have access to well-regarded options close to home. So if you’ve got kids, you can rest easy knowing their education is in good hands. For more details on the best schools in Craiglockhart, 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 Craiglockhart on espc.com. To search properties by school catchment area, click here.
For details on school catchment areas in Craiglockhart, 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 Craiglockhart is £445,742. 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 Craiglockhart.
For details on council tax bands and charges in Craiglockhart, please refer to the City of Edinburgh Council website.
Craiglockhart offers Easter Craiglockhart Hill, a local nature reserve with woodland trails, ponds, and panoramic views of Edinburgh. Families can enjoy walks along the Water of Leith Walkway and Craiglockhart Dell. The area also features the historic Craiglockhart Castle ruins and the Meggetland Sports Complex, which provides fields and pitches for various outdoor sports.
Cultural highlights include the historic Craiglockhart Campus and former Hydropathic building, known for its War Poets connection. Recreational amenities include the Craiglockhart Tennis Centre, Meggetland Sports Complex, and scenic Colinton and Craiglockhart Dells. These spaces provide opportunities for walking, running, tennis, rugby, and community fitness activities, alongside local heritage and nature education.
Craiglockhart has several community groups such as the Friends of Easter Craiglockhart Hill, Girlguiding units, and the Pentland Scout Group. The Craiglockhart Community Council organizes local initiatives and meetings. Families can take part in orienteering “Come & Try” days, nature walks, seasonal outdoor events, and arts projects that foster neighbourhood engagement and outdoor learning.
Craiglockhart at a glance*
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