What is it like to live in South Edinburgh?

When it comes to finding a family home, few things are more important than location. Proximity to good schools, an effortless commute (when required) and access to great amenities and green spaces are all things that top the list for family buyers, but often it can be difficult to find a neighbourhood that ticks every box, while also offering all-important affordability. 

The suburbs of South Edinburgh have become increasingly popular with family buyers in recent years, as they offer all of these things and much more besides.

We’ve highlighted just a few of the reasons why this part of the Capital could be the perfect place for your next home.  

Value for money 

South Edinburgh offers good value for money for buyers seeking a larger property, making it an ideal option for families in need of extra bedrooms, or that elusive home office. Neighbourhoods here offer a good mix of property types, meaning buyers can choose from everything from tenement flats and characterful cottages to glossy new-build houses, complete with gardens and garages.  

Speaking of new-builds, with a selection of family-friendly developments already established, and more in the pipeline for 2023 and beyond, there’s no shortage of new properties for you and your family to investigate.  

Price is a big pull for buyers in this area, with three-bedroom houses selling for £338,200 on average as of November 2023.

Good transport links 

Whether you choose the areas closest to the heart of the city, like Bruntsfield or Morningside, or opt for the suburbs, such as Gilmerton or Liberton, you’ll be guaranteed great connections into Edinburgh when you live in the south of the city, thanks to a bustling network of road links and bus routes.  

Plus, the City of Edinburgh Bypass is handily located for this part of the city, making it easy to access almost anywhere in the Capital, or to make a breeze of day trips to East Lothian, Midlothian, or further afield. 

Green space galore 

The neighbourhoods of South Edinburgh are ideally positioned close to plenty of open green spaces, so no matter where you are, you can enjoy a good, brisk walk close by. 

From the picturesque Meadows to the more rugged surroundings of the Hermitage of Braid and Blackford nature reserve, you’ll be spoiled for choice. If that wasn’t enough, the stunning Pentland Hills and Dalkeith Country Park are also nearby, meaning you can enjoy a wild afternoon’s walk at a moment’s notice. Great news for those with furry, four-legged friends! 

Shop ‘til you drop 

Of course, Edinburgh’s city centre is within easy reach for the flagship stores, but South Edinburgh isn’t without its own haven for shoppers. Straiton Retail Park makes shopping super convenient, with a plethora of furniture and homeware stores, supermarkets, and even drive-through food stores. For the more green-fingered residents, Dobbies is also just a short drive away, while those who love indie brands can enjoy them in abundance at the charming Restoration Yard close by.  

Gold-star schooling 

Good schools are always an important consideration for buyers when they’re choosing the location of their next home, but thankfully this area of Edinburgh offers good options for those with school-age children, including the highly regarded James Gillespie’s High School in popular Marchmont.

For buyers exploring independent schools, Merchiston Castle and George Watson’s College are both well-renowned, and the Montessori Arts School in Liberton provides the opportunity for learners to enjoy a different approach. 

Sports and leisure 

South Edinburgh is uniquely situated close to an abundance of leisure facilities, making it an ideal spot for sporty families, weekend enthusiasts – or just those with children who need to burn off some steam!

Golfers will adore the abundance of quality courses nearby, including Liberton Golf Club and the Braid Hills course, while gym-goers can choose from a selection of leisure clubs with excellent facilities, including tennis courts and swimming pools.

For the thrill seekers, the Midlothian Snowsports Centre offers an excellent opportunity to learn to ski and snowboard – a great way to spend a day out! 

You can find the latest homes for sale in South Edinburgh at espc.com.