Five Types of Edinburgh Period Property

If you’re new to Edinburgh period property, choosing the right home may be a little overwhelming. In this handy guide, we’re taking a closer look at the different types of Edinburgh period property you can find in each area of the city. These properties reflect Edinburgh’s history, from medieval times through the Georgian and Victorian eras. If you simply enjoy the beauty of period homes, don’t worry – we’re happy to help you find the property of your dreams no matter when it was built. For those who love to know a little more about their history, read on for five key types of period properties you can find in Edinburgh.

1. Medieval and Renaissance Properties

Edinburgh’s Old Town is simply stunning. Whether you’re looking up to Edinburgh Castle from Princes Street Gardens or standing in front of the castle overlooking some of the oldest homes in the city, it’s hard not to marvel at the small closes and characterful buildings along and just off the Royal Mile.

There are two main types of period properties to be found here:

Medieval Tenements: In the heart of the Old Town, the Royal Mile is lined with historic buildings dating back to the medieval period. These tall, narrow buildings one housed the majority of Edinburgh’s population in often challenging conditions. Today, you can find homes packed with character in this part of town. Picture steep, winding staircases and charmingly irregular layouts.
Renaissance Townhouses: Some of the buildings on and around the Royal Mile also reflect the Renaissance period. They tend to be more spacious and often feature distinctive architectural details such as crow-stepped gables and ornamental stonework.

2. Georgian Properties

Picture yourself arriving in Edinburgh by train and stepping outside of Waverley Station: to your right lies the Old Town, and to your left is Edinburgh’s New Town. Together, they form an outstanding UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Edinburgh’s New Town is one of the first examples of urban planning and remains exemplary in its field. Architects and city planners drew up the New Town in response to overcrowding in the Old Town. Its layout, as well as the size and shape of properties, reflect this until today.

Georgian Townhouses: Georgina townhouses form the core of the architecture of this area. Developed from the late 18th century onwards, these properties typically feature symmetrical facades, large sash windows, and elegant proportions. Some of these houses have been converted into individual apartments, while others remain available in their entirety as representative family homes.
Terraced Homes: Many Georgian homes in Edinburgh are part of terraced rows, combining elements of uniformity and elegance. These houses often have high ceilings, intricate cornices, and original fireplaces.
Mews Houses: Originally built as stables for the larger townhouses, many mews properties have been converted into charming residences. They typically offer more compact living spaces but retain a unique historical character.

3. Victorian Properties

Just a few minutes outside Edinburgh city centre lie the areas of Marchmont and Bruntsfield. They’re home to beautiful Victorian villas and tenements.

Marchmont and Bruntsfield have long been some of the most sought-after areas in Edinburgh, and looking at the Victorian properties here makes it easy to understand why. Substantial villas often showcase ornate stonework, bay windows and intricate ironwork.

The Victorian tenements in these areas were built to house multiple families. They’re characterised by their solid construction with high ceilings and spacious rooms. Some feature detailed cornicing and bay windows perfect for watching the world go by or curling up with a book.

4. Edwardian Properties

Moving a little further away from the city centre, Morningside and Merchiston are home to substantial Edwardian homes, built in the early 20^th century.

Edwardian Houses: Edwardian properties often blend Victorian grandeur with more modern conveniences. These homes may feature bay windows, front porches, and a mix of decorative brickwork and stone detailing.
Detached and Semi-Detached Homes: Edwardian areas in Edinburgh often include larger detached and semi-detached houses, which were designed to offer more space and comfort compared to earlier periods. Today, these homes are excellent for growing families with spacious gardens and private parking, among other features.

5. Traditional Cottages

Head to Duddingston Village to find some of Edinburgh’s oldest remaining properties. These historic cottages feature whitewashed stone walls, thatched or slate roofs, and quaint, compact designs. There are only a few of them, making them sought-after period properties when they become available. Rooms may be more compact, but you’d be living right next to Holyrood Park and Arthurs Seat and just down the road from Edinburgh’s oldest surviving pub.

Conclusion

Edinburgh’s period properties offer a rich tapestry of architectural styles, reflecting the city’s long and varied history. From medieval tenements and Renaissance townhouses in the Old Town to the elegant Georgian terraces of the New Town and the grand Victorian villas of Marchmont, there is a wide array of period properties to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the history and character of these homes or their architectural beauty, Edinburgh provides a unique and varied market for period property enthusiasts. Let us help you find your next period home – simply get in touch!