Edinburgh neighbourhoods: New Town
By Aleksandra, from Italy, studying MSc Computational Applied Mathematics
New Town is not always the first place students think of exploring because it is a bit further from the central university buildings. However, after living a bit north of there for three years, I can say that this is my favourite part of town that I never get tired of. So, if you ever feel like exploring that part of Edinburgh, here are some of my favourite places to visit!
Getting there
First of all, how would you even get there? In my opinion, walking is the best way as it only takes about 20 minutes, and you pass by some interesting spots on the way. There are also plenty of buses that run through Princes Street.
Things to do
Walk up Calton Hill
Everyone knows the famous Arthur’s Seat hike, but what if I told you there was an easier one with some of the best views of the city? Calton Hill is just next to the Waverley train station and the walk up is quite short, which is ideal for someone who struggles with hills like me. The views from the top are incredible, you can see all of Edinburgh, the sea, and the famous Forth bridges in the distance! I recommend picking a clear day and bringing a warm drink to watch the sunset. It is a great spot to bring your family when they visit!
There are also some fascinating things to explore up there, including some half-built columns that were meant to replicate the Parthenon in Athens but allegedly were abandoned when the funds ran out, and even a cannon!
St James Quarter
If nature is not really your thing, just at the bottom of Calton Hill you can find St James Quarter – the shopping centre with the iconic ice-cream shaped dome. There is basically any shop you could need, from clothes to stationery, plus a food court and the Everyman Cinema with sofas as seats!
I sometimes go there just to browse, and the rooftop terrace is free to access with a great view across the city. Some shops also offer student discounts, so make sure to bring your student ID.
Wander George Street and the side streets
George Street is one of my favourite streets in New Town to walk along. It is very spacious, has beautiful architecture, and lots of shops and restaurants. Look out for the statues of famous historical figures at the intersections, including James Clerk Maxwell, who is a familiar name for maths and physics students who are based in the building named after him.
One of my favourite shops to browse on George Street is the Scottish Design Exchange, which showcases art from Scottish artists. Most of their stuff is handmade, so you can find some great décor or gifts!
For food, Paesano Pizza on George Street is a favourite of mine. It’s so good! And if you head north down the quieter side streets, you will find lots of smaller galleries and independent cafes that you can explore. Rose Street, running parallel, is also great for a pub crawl.
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
The Portrait Gallery is a true hidden gem of New Town. Entry is free, and the permanent collection alone is worth the visit as it has some iconic portraits of some of Scotland’s most famous historical figures, including Mary Queen of Scots. One thing I really like is that the descriptions next to the portraits are so well written that you always end up learning something new.
There are also temporary exhibitions of contemporary artists that change regularly, and even an ancient library you can explore. But honestly what I like the most about the gallery is the building itself! It completely stands out with its unusual gothic style and red sandstone among all the Georgian neoclassical buildings of New Town. The main hall is impressive, with mosaics of the main historical figures and regions of Scotland, so make sure to look up when you walk in!
Final thoughts
Hopefully this gives you a good starting point, but honestly the best finds in New Town come from just wandering around with no set plan. So next time you need a break from your studies, come explore New Town!
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