Old Town
Living inside Edinburgh's medieval heart
About Old Town
Old Town is where Edinburgh began, and it remains the city's most dramatic neighbourhood. The medieval street plan — the original 'closes' and wynds running off the Royal Mile — is unlike anywhere else in Britain. Living here means Castle views from your window, a 2-minute walk to the Grassmarket's pubs, and everything the Fringe throws at you in August. The residential population is a mix of students, young professionals, and the occasional eccentric who's lived here for decades. It's genuinely vibrant year-round, not just during festivals. The Cowgate has Edinburgh's liveliest club scene. Victoria Street curves beautifully downhill to the Grassmarket. But it is noisy, sometimes raucous, and firmly tourist-territory in summer.
Neighbourhood vibes
Rental prices
Typical market rates 2025Scottish law note: All rentals use a Private Residential Tenancy (PRT). No fixed-term end date can force you to leave — only a valid notice to leave with a legal ground applies. SafeDeposits Scotland holds your deposit independently.
✓Why people love it
- ✓Edinburgh Castle
- ✓The Royal Mile
- ✓Grassmarket — pubs, markets, history
- ✓Victoria Street (voted one of UK's most beautiful streets)
- ✓Cowgate nightlife
- ✓Greyfriars Kirkyard
- ✓National Museum of Scotland (free)
!Things to know
- ⚠Extremely noisy during Edinburgh Fringe (August)
- ⚠Tourist congestion from April to October
- ⚠Many flats are in converted tenements with uneven standards
- ⚠Cobbled streets can be brutal with luggage or prams
Getting around
Who is Old Town best for?
Scottish council tax bands differ from England. Students are fully exempt — contact City of Edinburgh Council to apply. Single occupancy gets 25% off. Check your specific property band at mygov.scot.