A charming UK neighbourhood packed with independent shops, chic coffee houses and cobbled streets might get overlooked by the major historic city, just a short walk away. Yet for me, this uncrowded haven became a highlight of my trip.

During a weekend escape to Edinburgh this month, I found myself exploring the Old and New Town, marvelling at the iconic castle that towers 260 feet above the city and hiking up to Arthur’s Seat for panoramic vistas. While Edinburgh is packed with picturesque streets, historic landmarks, majestic buildings and popular attractions, I found that there’s so much more to the city if you venture a little off the beaten track, and away from the crowds.

While wandering around this incredibly walkable city, I found myself in the neighbourhood of Stockbridge, just a 20-minute stroll from central Edinburgh. It’s known for having a village feel, within a city, charatised by Georgian architecture and its iconic cobblestoned Circus Lane.

A wander along Circus Lane is enough to warrant a visit and will transport you to the scene of a fairytale. The cobbled street is lined with quaint terrace homes adorned with flowers, and the church stands tall at the end of the street. It’s certainly a picture-perfect spot and has often been dubbed one of the prettiest streets in Edinburgh.

Yet, there’s so much more to this delightful neighbourhood. The long and winding high street is brimming with independent shops, my favourite being An Independent Zebra, which was bursting with colourful, unique gifts, prints, candles, homeware, and trinkets.

There’s also Grow Urban, for those looking for a unique houseplant, and VoxBox Music, offering pre-owned vinyl records, CDs, books, and music memorabilia. There are also art materials from Henderson Artshop, the cosy children’s independent bookshop, Ginger and Pickles, along with boutique fashion from Dick’s and Kestin.

After plenty of time spent browsing the shops, I stopped by Fortitude Coffee for a warming cuppa and one of their mouthwatering caramel shortbreads. The space was trendy, and on a Monday afternoon was occupied by homeworkers indulging in their speciality coffee.

If there were enough hours in the day, I could have spent my time uncovering the cosy coffee houses, from Books N’ Cup Cafe to Artisan Roast. And that’s not all, as Stockbridge has a thriving food scene.

One of its famed spots is the pizzeria Civerinos, which offers enormous slices or a giant pizza to share amongst friends. Its red-and-white-checked tablecloths and colourful framed photos on the walls only add to its charming atmosphere and allure.

Elsewhere, there’s gastro pub The Scran and Scallie, tapas at CATA, brunch at the Pantry, or dinner at the Italian, Sotto Enoteca & Trattoria. The ‘village’ is also packed with bars for an evening tipple, from the cosy St Bernard’s Bar, The Antiquary Bar and The Bailie Bar.

I spent the afternoon wandering around Stockbridge, soaking up its relaxed atmosphere and welcoming environment, which made it easy to see why it’s often ranked among the most desirable areas to live in Edinburgh. With its grand Victorian and Georgian houses, nearby green spaces and the Water of Leith running through this tranquil haven, it certainly offers a peaceful retreat from the city.

It’s also conveniently positioned near the Royal Botanic Gardens, which are well worth a visit, as I found out, with paths winding through its ancient trees and Chinese gardens. Another 20-minute walk away is the picturesque Dean Village, with its famed backdrop of yellow and orange 19th-century architecture and scenic river walks, attracting visitors far and wide.

With Stockbridge being just a short walk away from major hubs in Edinburgh, it’s a destinations where you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what hidden gems you uncover. Plus, it’s a nice retreat away from the tourist crowds and a way to explore an authentic Edinburgh and see how the locals really live. I just wish I could move there myself.

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