Neighbourhood Watch: Stockbridge, Edinburgh

A guide to the village-like Edinburgh suburb

What’s it like?
Architecturally lovely and quite picturesque, the area is still pretty bohemian despite the influx of more affluent shops in recent years.

Where’s it, like?
To the north of the city, between the New Town and Inverleith. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the city centre, running alongside the Water of Leith. Key landmarks include St Stephens Church and the old Stockbridge Market entrance arch.

Who’s from there?
Nico is rumoured to have frequented the area during her Warhol heyday, whilst Shirley Manson and Dylan Moran have been spotted nearby. The Scottish national cricket team play at The Grange, and wicket lovers have reported sightings of Michael Vaughan and Sanath Jayasuriya after international league matches.

Why would I go there?
St Stephen Street has several great bars, including The Antiquary, The Saint and The Baillie. See also the Stockbridge Tap or Hector’s for some lovely squid. The Victorian swimming baths at Glenogle are a retro treat, as are Voxbox Music and Elaine’s Vintage Fashion. Charity shops in Stockbridge have some of the best quality wares, with Oxfam Music and Shelter on Raeburn Place offering particularly good collections, as well as bundles of antique dealers. Patisserie Florentin on Northwest Circus Place has pastries so good that they would make your mammy weep. Cheese lovers should hit up IJ Mellis for nibbly bits.