Discover Stockbridge: Edinburgh’s Hidden Gem

Stockbridge is one of those Edinburgh neighbourhoods that feels like a secret close enough to walk to from the New Town, yet with the atmosphere of a self contained village. On a Sunday its weekly market transforms a quiet square into a maze of stalls selling everything from artisan cheeses and homemade chutneys to still warm bread and fragrant street food. It’s a great place to start the morning, wandering with a coffee in hand and sampling bites from different stalls. From here, a short stroll leads to the Water of Leith walkway, a leafy riverside path where the city noise fades into the sound of running water. Following the trail towards Dean Village, the scenery shifts into something almost storybook like, with 19th-century mill buildings, cobbled streets and flower filled window boxes. From Dean Village it’s an easy walk to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, where striking sculptures sit among perfectly kept lawns.

Back in Stockbridge, we spent the rest of the afternoon exploring its streets lined with independent shops. My daughter loved dipping in and out of the little boutiques, browsing everything from quirky gifts to handmade jewellery and we couldn’t resist a detour to Circus Lane one of the city’s most photographed spots, with cobbles framed by colourful front doors and climbing plants.

As the evening set in, we headed to Chaophraya Thai Restaurant. Set high above the streets with views over Edinburgh’s skyline, it delivered beautifully presented dishes bursting with flavour. The Massaman curry was rich and comforting the pad thai perfect and the service lovely. It was a treat from start to finish definitely on the pricier side, but worth it for a special occasion and those incredible views across the city.