Situated just to the south of Edinburgh’s city centre, this part of Edinburgh has it all: rich history, a golf course at your doorstep, sweeping views, and a wide choice of cafes and restaurants. Plus, of course, there is a great selection of period property here.
Take a look at a map of Edinburgh. Just about 1 mile south of the Old Town lies the Meadows, a large public park. To the west of the Meadows lies Bruntsfield Links, which borders the actual district of Bruntsfield. Follow the main road south, and after another mile, Bruntsfield turns into Morningside.
Two Districts or One?
Both districts started as individual villages that can trace their history back to the 12th century (Morningside) and the 14th century (Bruntsfield). The name Morningside was first mentioned in 18th-century city plans. At the time, this area was little more than a few thatched cottages, a blacksmith’s business, and a few trees.
There is some debate about the origin of the name Morningside. Perhaps it was derived from the village’s south-facing aspect, the ‘morning side’ of what became Edinburgh? Other sources dispute that connection and say that it is more likely to be just a fancy-sounding title invented by local estate owners. Bruntsfield was originally known as “Brown’s Fields”, named after the owner of Bruntsfield House.
Today, these former villages have become a vibrant, residential part of Edinburgh. Bruntsfield and Morningside are highly sought after for several reasons. Their close proximity to some of Edinburgh’s favourite parks makes them a favourite with families. Morningside Road especially is lined with a combination of independent shops, lovely boutiques, charming cafes and restaurants. It also provides a convenient connection to the Edinburgh City Bypass to the south.
In addition, Morningside featured in the novel and movie ‘The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie.’ Children may be more familiar with Maisie MacKenzie, the Morningside cat that has featured in Aileen Paterson’s children’s books.
Bruntsfield Links retains a more residential feel but still features an incredible selection of cafes and restaurants. Last but not least, golf aficionados will simply love having a pitch & putt course at their doorstep.
What Type of Properties Can You Find Here?
The main thoroughfares, Bruntsfield Links and Morningside Road are lined with high-quality Victorian tenement buildings. If you are looking for an investment property, this is an excellent area to consider. These tenement flats are popular with University of Edinburgh students as well as professional tenants.
Move away from the main road, and you will still find tenement buildings, but you can also discover Victorian and Edwardian villas in between them. Many of these villas have been thoroughly refurbished without losing their character. They are perfect family homes that you will cherish for generations.
What are the Local Amenities Like?
Where do we start? Morningside and Bruntsfield have been firm favourites with born-and-bred Edinburghers as well as those who moved to the city more recently, and it is easy to see why.
Bruntsfield Links and the Meadows offer excellent spaces for a stroll, a quick jog, or a summer BBQ. Even in the winter, these spaces are popular, especially for those looking for a vantage point to watch the Edinburgh Castle fireworks on New Year’s Eve. Anyone living here or visiting will be spoilt for choice with cafes and restaurants. Because Bruntsfield and Morningside are residential areas, many of the eateries have a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere without compromising on food quality. If you prefer to cook for yourself, this part of Edinburgh’s Southside has a great selection of independent grocery stores and delicatessen as well as leading supermarkets.
Bruntsfield is a great choice for golfers not only because of the links at their doorstep. This part of Edinburgh is also home to the Bruntsfield Links Golfing Society, the 4th oldest golfing society in the world.
Nearby James Gillespie High School has achieved consistently high ratings as one of the leading state secondary schools in the Scottish capital. Bruntsfield Primary School and two more Primary Schools in Morningside cater to younger pupils. Nearby, high performing, independent schools include George Watson’s College and George Heriot’s.
What About Transport and Accessibility?
Like many of Edinburgh’s more central districts, Bruntsfield and Morningside offer limited parking spaces. If you are looking to buy a period villa or detached building, you will most likely have space for private parking on your property. Any other resident in the area can apply for a resident parking permit which makes parking easier.
Saying that, you may not need a car at all if you base yourself in this area. Both Bruntsfield and Morningside are served by several Lothian Buses routes, and getting a taxi into town only takes a few minutes.
Our Favourite Street
Picking a favourite street in this area is tough. We do have a soft spot for Bruntsfield Crescent and Whitehouse Loan because of their proximity to the green space of Bruntsfield Links.
But more than that, we love a weekend morning stroll along Morningside Road. This is a great way to unwind from a busy week and discover unique merchandise offered nowhere else in the city. Online shopping may be convenient, but there is just something special about discovering a new favourite item in a boutique. And if you are tired of walking up and downhill (Morningside Road is pretty steep!), why not stop for a cappuccino or a spot of afternoon tea?
Do you think a period home in Bruntsfield and Morningside would suit you? Search period properties in Bruntsfield and Morningside here or contact us directly to discuss your requirements.
