Living in Willowbrae
Willowbrae is one of those quietly brilliant pockets of Edinburgh that locals like to keep to themselves. Perched just east of Holyrood Park, it’s where verdant streets meet city convenience, where you can enjoy easy commutes to the heart of Edinburgh and strolling up Arthur’s Seat at the weekend . With its handsome Victorian homes, strong sense of community, and views that make you forget you’re in a capital city, Willowbrae is a bit of a hidden gem.
Is Willowbrae a good place to live?
If you’re after a place with greenery on your doorstep, neighbours who actually say hello, and a setting that strikes that sweet balance between city buzz and breathing room, Willowbrae will likely win you over.
It’s a hit with families for its great schooling options and calm streets, with commuters for the quick ride into town, and with dog owners who can wander straight to Holyrood Park or Portobello Beach. The area has a friendly, small-town warmth... the kind where your barista remembers your order and you end up swapping garden tips over the fence.
House prices are generally lower than in the city centre’s trendier spots like Stockbridge or Morningside, meaning you can get more space without sacrificing style. Whether it’s a stone-built terrace, a spacious semi, or a top-floor flat with skyline views, there’s something for everyone.
What is the transport in Willowbrae like?
You’re spoilt for choice. Living in Willowbrae means you can be in the city centre in ten minutes flat - or by the seaside just as quickly.
Willowbrae by bus
Lothian Buses have you covered, with several routes whisking you straight into the heart of Edinburgh and beyond. With stops on Willowbrae Road, the number 44 service is the main route to the city centre, as well as into the East Lothian towns of Musselburgh and Wallyford in one direction, and as far as Currie and Balerno in the other direction. A short walk up to Portobello offers many other bus services including the 4,5,15 and 26, so getting all around Edinburgh is a piece of cake.
Willowbrae by train
There’s no station right in Willowbrae, but Waverley Station is just a short bus ride away, where you can jump on a train to reach Glasgow, the Highlands, and everywhere in between.
Willowbrae by car
If you drive, you’ll appreciate how well-placed Willowbrae is. The A1 is right on your doorstep, making it easy to get out of the city or head down the coast. Parking’s generally easier here than in central areas, and the roads are leafy, calm, and pleasant to navigate.
What are the schools in Willowbrae like?
Local primaries such as Parsons Green and Duddingston Primary have solid reputations and plenty of community spirit. For secondary schools, you’re within catchment for Portobello High and Holy Rood RC High - both well-regarded and offering a good mix of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
Smaller class sizes, active parent groups, and access to the great outdoors make Willowbrae an ideal place to raise kids who get the best of both worlds… city energy and suburban calm.
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What are the best things to do in Willowbrae
If you love the outdoors, you’ll never run out of things to do. Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat are practically in your back garden, perfect for morning runs, dog walks, or watching the city light up at sunset. Fancy sand between your toes... Portobello Beach is just down the road.
You’ll also find a handful of excellent local eateries, cafes and other useful shops within walking distance. And because you’re so close to the city centre, you can dip into the best of Edinburgh’s restaurants, theatres, and nightlife whenever you fancy… then retreat home to your quiet, tree-lined streets when you’ve had your fill.
Types of property in Willowbrae
Architecturally, Willowbrae is a bit of a show-off (in the best way). Expect rows of handsome stone villas, classic Edinburgh tenements with bay windows, and leafy cul-de-sacs lined with semi-detached family homes. There are also newer developments offering modern flats with all the trimmings... ideal for first-time buyers or downsizers.
Many properties boast big gardens, original period features, and - if you’re lucky - views over Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill.
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Planning on moving to Willowbrae?
Willowbrae is the sort of place that sneaks up on you. It’s calm, comfortable, and effortlessly connected - the kind of neighbourhood where you can live a big-city life without all the big-city noise.
If you’re planning a move, it’s worth chatting to a local solicitor estate agent who knows the area inside out. They’ll help you find the right spot - whether that’s a family home with a view, a garden flat near the park, or your forever home just minutes from the sea.
Move here, and you’ll quickly see why locals are so fond of their leafy corner of Edinburgh - and why so few ever want to leave.
Find a solicitor estate agent in Willowbrae
You can search our directory of local ESPC solicitor agents. Simply type in Willowbrae and we’ll give you the contact details and all the information you need on the agent.
FAQs about living in Willowbrae
Local primary schools in the area have strong reputations and a real sense of community. For secondary education, families are well served by reputable schools offering a balanced mix of academic and extracurricular opportunities. Smaller class sizes, active parent groups, and easy access to nature make Willowbrae an ideal place to raise children who enjoy the best of both worlds - the vibrancy of the city and the calm of the suburbs. For more details on the best schools in Willowbrae, 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 Willowbrae on espc.com. To search properties by school catchment area, click here.
For details on school catchment areas in Willowbrae, 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 Willowbrae is £343,260. This figure is based on properties marketed and sold through ESPC, in the 3-month period ending on 30/09/2025.
There are no new housing developments or upcoming infrastructure projects currently underway in Willowbrae.
For details on council tax bands and charges in Willowbrae, please refer to the City of Edinburgh Council website.
Willowbrae enjoys proximity to green spaces like Holyrood Park and Lochend Park, offering walking, picnics, and nature exploration. Local shops and cafés make family outings easy, and the area’s quiet, welcoming character suits young families. Play areas and nearby attractions such as Arthur’s Seat provide outdoor fun and scenic adventures for all ages.
Willowbrae features community sports and leisure options, including the Willowbrae Bowling Club, which offers lawn bowls, pétanque, and social gatherings. The Northfield & Willowbrae Community Centre hosts various classes, clubs, and workshops for children, adults, and seniors, encouraging creativity, fitness, and lifelong learning in a friendly and inclusive setting.
The Northfield & Willowbrae Community Council organises events such as the Community Environment Fair with games, crafts, and family activities. Willowbrae Parish Church runs a weekly parent-and-toddler group for children under three, fostering local friendships. Seasonal fairs, charity fundraisers, and community days help bring families together throughout the year.
Willowbrae at a glance*
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