Edinburgh neighbourhoods: Newington
By Laura, from Poland, studying Public Health
Having lived in Newington for two years, I want to share some tips on the must-sees and how to make the most of your time in the area.
Why Newington is great for students
Newington is a lively neighbourhood with plenty to do during the day and a buzzing evening scene. It sits right next to central campus, making it incredibly convenient – whether you’re popping out for a coffee between lectures or planning a full day out. It’s packed with independent cafés, green spaces, cultural venues, and hidden gems that feel a world away from the library. Best of all, much of it is free or very kind to the student budget.
Top things to do
Coffee at The Green Fork
Located about a 10-minute walk from the Main Library, The Green Fork is a lovely independent café with a great vegan and vegetarian menu. Their pastries and sandwiches paired with an oat latte have genuinely saved me from morning sluggishness before more than a few 9am lectures.
Tip: If you’re there around lunch, definitely try one of their focaccias. The camembert focaccia in particular is a brilliant mix of sweet and savoury – absolutely worth every penny!
Blackford Hill
On the other side of Newington sits King’s Buildings – and just beyond it, Blackford Hill. Don’t let the word ‘hill’ deceive you. It will absolutely test your legs. At the base you’ll find a lovely pond where, if you’re lucky, you might spot the resident swans. Keep climbing and you’ll reach a striking domed building – the Royal Observatory, which hosts fascinating exhibitions and opens its doors for free every September.
Check the UKRI website for more details
Tip: go on a clear day for the best views – sunset from the top is something else.
Access: reachable from central campus via the University shuttle bus or bus number 9. Note that the final stretch involves a steep walk.
Summerhall
Art and Culture Summerhall is one of Edinburgh’s most interesting cultural venues. It hosts local artists, exhibitions, and regular events. Most exhibitions are free, making it a perfect low-cost afternoon out.
Tip: check their events calendar in advance – there’s often something on in the evenings too
View Summerhall events calendar
The Meadows
It’s hard to describe The Meadows as anything other than an ‘everything park’ – because truly, everything happens there. Volleyball, cricket, open-air music, art displays, community events… if there’s sunshine in Edinburgh (cherish it while you can!), half the city ends up here.
Tip: bring a frisbee or a book or just wander – you’ll always stumble on something going on.
Accessibility note: largely flat and accessible
Royal Commonwealth Pool
If you’re into fitness, this is one of the best facilities in Edinburgh. The Commonwealth Pool combines a gym, classes like Pilates and Yoga, and a great recreational swimming pool. Student discounts are available – bring your student ID.
Tip: check the timetable online before you go as lane swimming and public swim times vary.
View Commonwealth Pool timetable
Touch of Poland
A small but brilliant Polish shop in the heart of Newington. As someone originally from Poland, I won’t pretend this isn’t partly a personal mention – but whether you’re homesick or just curious, it’s worth a browse and great for picking up something a little different for a flat dinner. You might discover a new favourite snack.
Tip: Not sure where to start? Pick up a bag of paluszki (pronunciation: pahlooshky) – thin, salty breadsticks that are dangerously snackable – or, if you have a sweet tooth, grab some pierniki (pronunciation: pyehrneeky), soft gingerbread biscuits filled with jam. Both are a great introduction to Polish snacking culture.
Address: 66 S Clerk St, Edinburgh EH8 9PT
Getting to Newington
One of Newington’s biggest selling points is how easy it is to reach from campus.
Walking
Depending on where you’re coming from, it’s anywhere from five to 20 minutes on foot from central campus – a great way to clear your head between study sessions.
Cycling
Only around five to 10 minutes by bike. If you don’t own one, Edinburgh’s electric bike rental scheme is a brilliant (and faster) alternative.
Learn how to get student discount on Voi eBike hire
Bus
Routes serving Newington include the 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 12, 14, 24, 29, 31, 33, 37, 38, 47, 47B, and 49
View Lothian City Buses information
Budget tips
Newington’s outdoor spaces are largely free – and well worth it. The Meadows is particularly magical in early spring when the cherry blossom trees bloom and Edinburgh briefly resembles Japan. On sunny days, Blackford Hill is another brilliant free option.
Something I didn’t expect
Honestly? How much I’d actually make use of what Newington has to offer. I moved here for the location and stayed for everything else. A 10-minute walk in almost any direction gives you something completely different – a park, an art exhibition, a pond with swans. I didn’t expect to actually explore my own neighbourhood this much!
Clearing up a myth
People hear ‘Newington’ and picture a quiet street of B&Bs and not much else. I get it – from the outside, it doesn’t exactly shout ‘things to do’. But spend one afternoon here and that idea disappears pretty quickly. It’s one of those places that rewards the people who show up.
Thinking of living here?
If all of this has made you curious about living in Newington, the University’s Pollock Halls accommodation is a great option – set in beautiful grounds with a stunning view of Arthur’s Seat.
View University accommodation information
