If you’re a student in Edinburgh, you have probably strolled through the markets, lined up outside Lannan Bakery, and fallen head-over-heels for Stockbridge. However, there is more to the area than Rayburn Place. The greater Stockbridge area is usually a transit area, often following the route you take to and from George Street. It is here, in this Second New Town, where you will find some of the hottest spots in Edinburgh.
“This place is like home,” one friend said as we sat outside sipping hibiscus iced teas at the hidden gem that is cafēn. Perched on the corner of Great King St. and Dundee St., this is the epitome of cosy cafe culture. With only a few seats, the intimate atmosphere adds to the sense of belonging and comfort that comes with their delicious drinks. I asked my friend why she frequents cafēn, especially while living in the Old Town, where there are many other great places to grab coffee with friends. She explained that the establishment’s charm and personality are worth the trek, and that “nothing beats their matcha.”
The shopping in the Second New Town is a breath of fresh air compared to Princes St. Nestled on Howe St. is a homeware shop that another friend of mine and I perused. Whether it be tableware or furniture, trinkets or gifts, for them: Cabbage is the place to be. “Cabbage is easily one of my favourite places in New Town. They bring in new pieces which are so intentional and thoughtful — nothing feels artificial.” she said. With a curated catalogue, the shopping experience here is unique, something I haven’t found anywhere else in the city.
Sharing a wall with Cabbage is the infamous Little Capo. Getting a booking here is a feat on its own, so I haven’t had the pleasure of going yet, but a very lucky friend of mine did. “Stanley Tucci was right,” referencing a viral video in which Tucci stated that Little Capo has the best Italian food in the UK. “Their shellfish Bucatini was insane, I dream of it,” she exclaimed, as she boasted about her next booking coming up this month. This sentiment is widely shared, and the buzz around this restaurant never dies down.
What makes this area so interesting, aside from the third-spaces and shopping, is the architecture. Robert Reid and William Sibbald developed the area past Queen Street in the early 19th century. The stunning Georgian and Neo-Classical townhouses stand tall, with confident windows and grand steps up to the doorways. Peering through the windows of these flats and houses is “a treat,” spoke a classmate, as we chatted over coffee. She explained that one of her favourite pastimes is walking through the neighbourhood and seeing the stunning home libraries and living rooms, dripping with framed artwork and rich curtains. The area is affluent, and you can feel it as you walk through the sweeping streets.
Despite the rich history, finding a flat here for student prices is not impossible. Properties range from £712 to £1450 per person per month, similar to other student-esque areas such as Marchmont and Bruntsfield. Having viewed multiple apartments in the area myself, I can confirm the quality of these lettings is nothing short of amazing.
Whether it’s called the greater Stockbridge area or the Second New Town, this spot is not to be overlooked. Next time you are trekking to Stockbridge’s Books ‘n Cup, make sure to take your time through the area, and get to love what so many other people call home.
Photo by Ulia Makoveeva for The Student.
