Spotlight On… Leith, Edinburgh

Whether it’s the cornucopia of bars, cafes and restaurants or it’s amazing transport links to the city centre, Leith is a hot spot for property for families and young professionals. Rooks Property Management puts the Spotlight On… Leith.

Why Live in Leith? Despite many years of redevelopment and investment, Leith is still a hidden gem to many. Being on the waterfront, much of Leith offers spectacular views of the Firth of Forth, and the Fife coastline. Property types in Leith vary enormously, from brand new luxury apartments, to gorgeous Victorian terraced houses, so you’re sure to find something to fit both your lifestyle and budget. Another significant upside of Leith is the surprising amount of amenities, including the popular Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre, with multiplex cinema, supermarkets, swimming pool, and gyms to a such a range of bars, cafes, and restaurants you’ll be spoilt for choice. And although sandwiched between the coast and Edinburgh city centre, Leith has plenty of green space, including the beautiful Leith Links, and Victoria Park.

The downside? For all the redevelopment over recent years, there are still a few eye-sores in the form of ugly tenement blocks, that are a reminder of Leith’s less than prestigious past. However, they are few in number, and in no significant way drag down this exciting, and very much up and coming area. One other blight on Leith is the foot of Leith Walk. It’s a busy junction, and not the prettiest of areas, though does offer a wide selection of shops. However, make no mistake, a short two/three minute walk, or seconds on the bus or in the car, takes you into the real heart of Leith.

Well connected? Most definitely! The three main arteries leading in and out of Leith are Granton Road, taking you west out of the city, Seafield Road, taking you east right to the A1 and city bypass, and of course, Leith Walk, which leads right into the beating heart of Edinburgh. Existing public transport links are some of the best served in the city, with buses 16, 22, 25, 49 amongst others, whisking you in and out the city centre in minutes. There are also plans to extend the new trams system into Leith. An additional related bonus is most of Leith is still free on-street parking, a true rarity in Edinburgh.

Schools: Leith Primary School, Trinity Primary School, Leith Academy, Trinity Academy, Pilrig Park School, Leith School of Art.

Where to check out: Ocean Terminal, The Shore, Roseleaf, Relish Cafe/Deli and The Kitchin (owned by celebrity Michelin star chef Tom Kitchin)

Recommendations for the local area from Rook’s staff: It’s a tossup between the beating heart of Leith with its cornucopia of amazing bars, cafes and restaurants, and Ocean Terminal. While a shopping centre wouldn’t be the first choice for many, Ocean Terminal, with its great selection of shops, restaurants (some offering outside seating with spectacular views of the coast), cinema, gym, softplay, supermarkets, and Royal Yacht Britannia visitor attraction, there are worse places to find yourself on a day off with the kids.

Rooks was established out of a passion for property, and a strong commitment to do good work. What we do, and how we do it matters greatly to us. Whether you are letting, selling, or just need the right advice, Rooks will help you make a smart move. Find out more >> http://snip.ly/9nn3d

The average rent of a property in Leith is £903.
Check out properties currently available in Leith >> http://snip.ly/1dyeu

Photo credit: Beautiful Edinburgh