Polwarth & Fountainbridge
Area Profile
Vibrant, connected and affordable, the Polwarth and Fountainbridge areas are popular with a wide range of people seeking city living in a thriving community close to Edinburgh city centre. Famously it was once home to one of Edinburgh’s most famous cultural icons, none other than Sean Connery.
An abundance of flats and houses are available in the local streets – particular popular with professionals and students – all within easy reach of the local hub which is Fountain Park. Here there’s a fantastic range of bars, restaurants, a Vue cinema, Nuffield Health Centre, a bowling centre and much more.
Shopping is convenient and wide-ranging too, with a new Sainsbury’s superstore in the neighbourhood, complementing some excellent local shops and cafes. The pick of these has to be Fieldwork on Fountainbridge itself which is a hidden gem for coffee and cake lovers!
Polwarth and Fountainbridge is amongst the best connected areas of Edinburgh thanks to numerous frequent bus services, including the 1, 10, 27, 34 and 35, threading through its streets. Mainline rail services are also close by from nearby Haymarket station. But you don’t have to rely on public transport or a car to get around – Dalry, Bruntsfield and Tollcross are all within walking distance.
With millions of pounds invested in recent years in new developments, including a new Hilton hotel, the Napier Student Village and marina complete with its growing narrowboat-living community, Polwarth and Fountainbridge is undergoing a transformation which is only adding to its popularity and appeal.
These exciting new developments sit comfortably with the area’s rich heritage, characterised perfectly by the famous Diggers pub, more formally called the Athletic Arms, which CAMRA rates highly and the locals regard as an institution.
Polwarth and Fountainbridge’s Local schools and pre-school facilities are very good, with the substantial new Boroughmuir High School on Viewforth being an excellent addition to the area’s educational provision.