Living in New Town
Perched right in the heart of Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh’s New Town isn’t “new” in the literal sense (we’re talking Georgian, not 21st century glass and steel), but it’s as fresh and exciting as ever. Brimming with elegant architecture, boutique shops, atmospheric bars, and a generous dose of cobblestone charm, it’s a place where you can sip a flat white in a hip café before wandering past history-soaked buildings that look like they belong in a period drama. If you love city life with a side of sophistication, New Town is calling your name.
Is New Town a good place to live?
Those with an appreciation of style, convenience, and the thrill of stepping out your door into one of the most beautiful cityscapes in the world will feel right at home in the New Town. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means you’re basically living in a piece of history, but with the bonus of great wine bars, independent shops, and artisan bakeries.
You’ll find a mix of grand Georgian townhouses, converted flats, and modern apartments tucked neatly among leafy crescents and squares. There’s a wealth of cultural attractions on your doorstep, and the hustle of Princes Street just a short stroll away.
Sure, property prices can be on the upper end, but you’re paying for beauty, location, and bragging rights.
What is the transport in New Town like?
Given its city centre location, you might not even need transport… most places are walkable. But when you do need to venture further, New Town is superbly connected.
New Town by bus
Lothian Buses run an extensive network, with stops peppered all around New Town. Whether you’re heading to Leith for seafood, Morningside for antiques, or the airport for a getaway, there’s a route for you. The Airlink 100 whisks you to Edinburgh Airport in around 30 minutes, making spontaneous trips entirely possible.
New Town by train and tram
Waverley Station, Scotland’s second-busiest railway hub, sits right on New Town’s edge. From here, you can catch speedy trains to Glasgow in under an hour, London in around four and a half, and just about anywhere else in the UK that tickles your fancy. The convenient tram service in the capital runs through New Town, giving you even more options when it comes to getting around.
New Town by car
Driving in central Edinburgh can be… let’s say “adventurous.” Narrow streets, one-way systems, and a scarcity of parking mean a car isn’t essential. But if you do drive, the A90 and A1 are easily accessible for escaping the city.
What are the schools in New Town like?
New Town is well-served when it comes to education. Families can choose from a range of respected primaries, such as Stockbridge Primary and Broughton Primary, while secondary pupils often attend Broughton High School or Drummond Community High School. For independent options, The Edinburgh Academy and Fettes College are within easy reach.
You’ll also find a variety of nurseries, language schools, and specialist tuition centres dotted around the area, perfect for little learners and budding academics.
Search properties by school catchment
What are the best things to do in New Town
Where do we start? Culture buffs can soak up the art at the Scottish National Gallery or catch a play at the Edinburgh Playhouse. Shoppers will adore George Street for designer labels and Multrees Walk for luxury brands, while Rose Street offers pubs with more character than a Dickens novel.
If fresh air is more your thing, you can be up Calton Hill in ten minutes for panoramic views of the city (and some envy-inducing Instagram shots). Queen Street Gardens and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh are also nearby for tranquil strolls.
Foodies are spoiled for choice, from Michelin-starred dining to cosy cafés serving the best scones you’ll ever taste. And during August, you’re at ground zero for the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Types of property in New Town
New Town is prime Georgian territory, so expect elegant stone facades, tall sash windows, and high ceilings that make you feel like you live in a movie set. Many townhouses have been converted into stylish flats, while some remain as full residences for those with deeper pockets.
There are also sleek, modern apartments tucked away in redeveloped buildings, offering the perfect blend of heritage charm and contemporary convenience. Whether you’re dreaming of a minimalist penthouse, a chic studio, or a grand period home, New Town delivers.
SEARCH HOMES FOR SALE IN NEW TOWN
Planning on moving to New Town?
With its elegant Georgian streets and grand architecture, Edinburgh’s New Town blends history and sophistication in a way few places can match. Whether you’re browsing chic boutiques, dining in acclaimed restaurants, or simply soaking in the charm of its sweeping crescents and gardens, life here feels effortlessly refined. So, if you’re looking for a neighbourhood where culture, style, and convenience come together, New Town could be exactly where you belong.
Find a solicitor estate agent in New Town
You can search our directory of local ESPC solicitor agents. Simply type in New Town and we’ll give you the contact details and all the information you need on the agent.
FAQs about living in New Town
New Town offers excellent educational opportunities. Families can choose from highly regarded primary schools, including Stockbridge Primary and Broughton Primary, while older students often attend Broughton High School or Drummond Community High School. For those seeking independent education, both The Edinburgh Academy and Fettes College are conveniently nearby. The area is also home to a variety of nurseries, language schools, and specialist tuition centres - ideal for young children and aspiring scholars alike.
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 New Town on espc.com. To search properties by school catchment area, click here.
For details on school catchment areas in New Town, 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 New Town is £382,473. This figure is based on properties marketed and sold through ESPC, in the 3-month period ending on 30/06/2025.
<p>There are no new housing developments or upcoming infrastructure projects currently underway in New Town.</p>
For details on council tax bands and charges in New Town, please refer to the City of Edinburgh Council website.
New Town offers leafy havens like the New Town Gardens - a collection of private Georgian-era squares and walks, some with ponds and literary ties, such as the island pond in Queen Street Central Gardens that inspired Treasure Island. Nearby, Princes Street Gardens includes a large playground ideal for kids. Charming shopping streets, open-air markets, and pedestrian-friendly spaces make strolling and discovering fun for families.
Culturally rich, New Town features galleries, theatres, and elegant Georgian architecture. The National Galleries of Scotland offer exhibitions that often include family-oriented programming. For recreation beyond museums, Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park offer rewarding hikes with panoramic city views, easily reached on foot.
New Town hosts a lively calendar of family-friendly festivals and community events. Highlights include the Collective Gala and Craft & Flea Market at Assembly Rooms, showcasing local art, makers, and interactive experiences. Seasonal delights such as the Edinburgh Christmas events - with a Ferris wheel, ice rink, and festive maze - transform Princes Street Gardens into a winter wonderland for all ages.
New Town at a glance*
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