Tollcross is a lively area, just a short walk from Edinburgh city centre. It is home to a selection of contemporary bars as well as traditional pubs and a couple of nightclubs. Caffeine lovers won't be short of coffee shops and, there is a variety of affordable cuisine from different corners of the globe.  
 

Tollcross is home to two independent cinemas: The Cameo and The Filmhouse, both of which have bars. And for theatre-goers there is always a show on at The King's Theatre.
 

For a more independent vibe and slightly less bustle, walk up to neighbouring Bruntsfield and indulge in the array of independent eateries and retailers there. Or take a walk on The Meadows or Bruntsfield Links, public parks which border onto Tollcross. The Meadows is home to a children's play park, municipal tennis courts, croquet, picnic tables and designated barbeque areas. Golfers can play a round for free on Bruntsfield Links short hole course.
 

Tollcross is fifteen minutes walk from the Old Town and all its historical trappings such as Edinburgh Castle, the Grassmarket and Greyfriars Bobby as well as hundreds of Fringe venues during the Edinburgh Festival season.
 

Haymarket rail station is a seven minute walk from Tollcross and the area is served by numerous buses which connect it to the rest of Edinburgh.