North Edinburgh
Stockbridge, on the northern fringe of the New Town was once a
separate village. It was enveloped by urban expansion, but
like Colinton and Corstorphine (in West and South West Edinburgh),
it retains a distinct identity.
In the 70s, it was favoured by the city region’s artistic
community, attracted by its waning grandeur and cheap rent.
Now, it’s the essence of metropolitan chic. Couture boutiques and
delicatessens line Raeburn Place and St Stephen Street (the latter
regularly doubles as Victorian London in TV adaptations).
The proximity to the Royal
Botanic Gardens and Inverleith Park enhance the village
atmosphere. Walk along the Water of Leith to Dean Village, a
rustic settlement surrounded by inspiring urban
landscapes.
Only 10 minutes by bus from the city centre, Leith is
Edinburgh’s historic port town. The area has experienced a
dramatic renaissance over the past two decades.
The arrival of the Scottish Government headquarters and the
building of the Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre have energized
the ancient burgh. A terminal for cruise liners has been
constructed and the Royal Yacht Britannia is now permanently docked
there. Café culture has arrived in Leith and the bars and
brasseries along the Shore are frequented by friendly self
indulgers.
On Edinburgh’s waterfront a £6.5 bn development project is
currently underway regenerating 350 hectares of former brownfield
land in Granton and Leith , creating a vibrant new “Waterfront
City” including new opportunities for flagship business,
residential, retail and leisure developments.
