Moving to Edinburgh

We are providing you with tips and helpful information to help make your move to Edinburgh simpler.

Moving to Edinburgh 


Home of the Scottish parliament Building. Scotland’s stately capital reclines at the foot of Arthurs Seat, a rocky outcrop that rears 822ft from the heart of the city. With it's fantastic music and arts scene, its water from location and cosmopolitan feel, Edinburgh delivers enthralling city living. 

Tourists throng year-round on the medieval mile leading up to the brooding Edinburgh Castle. In August the city fills to bursting as visitors flock from the four corners of the earth to witness the world’s best comedy and theatre acts during its 21-day theatre Fringe Festival.

In summer you will find families picnicking on the Meadows or in the expansive Holyrood Park. Couples and singles head for the Old Town to enjoy a leisurely lunch around Cowgate or browse through the trendy boutiques of Victoria Street, Candlemaker Row and the Grassmarket.

London is within an hour and a quarter by air, and Edinburgh is linked by rail to the UK’s major cities.

What is special or unique about Edinburgh?


Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, Edinburgh is divided into two distinct parts. The New Town in the north of the city is neatly laid-out, with Grecian-style buildings and an almost regal feel to it. The Old Town, with its tiny alleyways and tightly-packed streets, has a more medieval feel.

What are a newcomer's first impressions when arriving in Edinburgh?


Blending ancient and modern, Edinburgh is a very interesting city. One of the first things a newcomer will notice is that the city is surrounded by a number of extinct volcanoes and rocky crags, making it a very dramatic landscape.

What is the local language?


English is commonly spoken; although Gaelic is spoken in the north and western areas of Scotland, including the Highlands and Islands. In addition, Scots is spoken in the Lowlands.

How easily could I live in Edinburgh without knowing English?


It is recommended that you have an understanding of conversational English.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of the city?


People from Edinburgh have a good sense of humor, so it is difficult to offend. However, it is beneficial to remember that religion still plays an important part in Scottish life and you should be sensitive to friends and neighbours.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?


Scotland receives a lot of rainfall and is generally cool from November to April. From May to October the warm weather arrives, along with some wonderful warm sunshine. Apart from infrequent gales and strong winds, the country does not suffer from extreme weather or natural disasters.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of Edinburgh or its people?


As with other Scottish cities, the people of Edinburgh are passionately proud of their heritage.