Where is the best place to live in Edinburgh as a student?
Finding housing in Edinburgh as a first year can be a daunting process. I am here to relieve you of the stress regarding the where – which depends largely on your interests and lifestyle.
For first-years, housing is guaranteed and the University offers great resources on this with an abundance of student housing, from Pollock Halls (catered and social) and Brae House to private rentals.
For those looking to rent HMO (student) flats, this is the debrief. First up, Newington. Extremely close to the University main campus, the gym and Lidl, this area is great for sporty students and those on the early-morning library grind. Be warned about living directly on Newington road if you’re a light sleeper, but plenty of quieter offshoots streets with good flats.
Next up, Bruntsfield/Tollcross area – a personal favourite. Again, it’s walking distance to the main campus and close to the Meadows. This area is ideal for students wanting to be near pubs, the canal, and lots of coffee shops, making it a perfect retreat for third or fourth years wanting a slightly calmer location.
Thirdly, we have Marchmont. Often considered the ultimate second-year location, with beautiful views of the Meadows up for grabs, this area is more housing-focused, with just a few supermarkets and pubs.
Finally, New Town. For those wanting to get away from the student crowds (con: further away), New Town offers a more upmarket, slightly more touristic vibe and tends to attract later-year students looking for a change of scenery.
What is the student nightlife like?
Student nightlight in Edinburgh is pretty widespread – from Karaoke nights at Dropkick Murphy’s (especially busy on Wednesdays with sports clubs) to the cheap drinks and sticky dance floor that is Hive. The main student nightlife area is Cowgate, home to the most clubs and only a 10-minute walk from main campus.
Tip: Oz Bar is great for cheap doubles!
In New Town, there are a couple more clubs, notably Why Not which is popular on Wednesday or Gary’s (entry is cash only!) but often busy on the weekend.
The breakdown is as follows – Who goes out on a Monday? Bongos or Subway on a Tuesday, Why Not on a Wednesday, Cabaret Voltaire on a Thursday, Fridays at Liquid Rooms (anywhere is good on a Friday though), Big Cheese on Saturdays and Sunday is a rest day (duh!).
A quick note on pubs to say Peartree is great as a student beer garden, sports game usually on here. Student Union at Potterrow does a decent pint. For something a little different, head to Bennets Bar, Captain’s Bar for live music.
What is Edinburgh famous for?
As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is famous for all things Scottish. Starting with Greyfriar’s Bobby, a statue of a dog whose nose you rub for good luck (all that needs to be said on that). Just a 5 minute walk from here is Victoria Street, where Harry Potter was claimed to have been written. This area also offers a great pub-crawl route through Grassmarket.
If you are feeling active, head to Arthur’s Seat for a hike that will get you one of the best views of Edinburgh.
Event-wise, every August, the city during The Fringe, an arts festival full of wacky shows and big-name performers. As a student, I highly recommend spending at least one summer in the city to experience it – there are loads of free shows and the atmosphere is incredible!
What are the best places to visit in Edinburgh?
When you arrive in Edinburgh, there is definitely a bucket list of sites worth ticking off.
Starting with museums - the National Museum and National Gallery are beautiful, mostly FREE, locations to explore if that’s your thing!
During November/December, the Christmas markets near Princes Street are worth a visit to get into the festive spirit (Warning: the hot chocolates always cost more than you think).
Other attractions include Edinburgh Castle, though rumour has it visiting before you graduate means you’ll fail your degree – depending on how superstitious you are!
A must-see for its view and great café is Carlton Hill and, if you are in a walking mood, check out Dean Village, a picturesque area with the river running through it.
For a cold dip followed by a pint or slice of cake, head to Portobello Beach (reachable by bus).
And don’t miss the weekend markets: Grassmarket on Saturdays a Stockbridge on Sundays.
Regarding transport, the whole city is walkable and bus links are great – definitely get yourself a Young Scots card on arrival for free bus travel. Biking is also a great option especially along the canal path and round the Meadows.
Best places to eat in Edinburgh?
Starting with cheap eats close to campus, there’s a trio of wrap spots opposite Appleton Tower, with Nile Valley being the most popular.
For a sit-down meal under £10, head to Mosque Kitchen (Indian and Middle Eastern) or 10 to 10 in Delhi (Indian), just round the corner.
For a cheap breakfast, Snax Café has one location just 5 minute walk from the Uni or one in New Town.
For a slightly fancier meal out, Chez Jules offers a great three-course lunch deal if you are a fan of steak and chips.
For dinner, you could also go to Tuk Tuk, a fun BYOB Indian.
If you are studying in the library, I recommend the £3 soup deal, a classic meal deal or a trip to Lidl bakery (both about 5 minutes’ walk from campus).
Personally, I also love Leith Walk for Italian food – Valvona & Crolla for deli goods, Gaia for soup and sandwiches and San Ciro Pizzeria if you are a football and pizza fan.
Lastly, post night-out, Moratti can sort you out.
Hidden gems in Edinburgh?
I highly recommend Beltane Festival, an event that takes place during the winter and summer solstices. Think fire, drums and red paint, this is a quirky highlight event often held on Carlton Hill.
Another (not-so-hidden) gem is Leith Walk, a super cool area full of charity shops, independent cafés, and places to explore. At the top of the road, there is also a bookstore called Toppings & Co Booksellers, check out their book events for a wholesome evening!
If you are up for a long walk or bus ride from Leith to the coast, you may come across Crammond Island. This magical spot is only accessible when the tide is out and makes for a great picnic spot destination in summer or, rumour has it, an occasional clubbing location.
If you are into film, the Cameo Cinemas (best in Tollcross and Morningside) are not badly priced and offer an Indie cinema experience – the Tollcross venue even has a bar attached.
My final hidden gem is a skittles alley in Edinburgh’s oldest pub, the Sheep Heid Inn (located in Duddingston) – head here for a fun evening with your mates but do book ahead.
