Edinburgh Apartments: Thorntree Street

Leith is the historic port of Edinburgh, now an up-and-coming neighbourhood with a great restaurant scene, bustling bars, music, art and eclectic shopping, but preserving a strong local character; think Greenpoint, Brooklyn but with more parks.

It is a short walk to the city centre, and is also well-served by several bus lines along Leith Walk and Easter Road. In the other direction, The Shore is the historic waterfront, with preserved architecture and its own vibrant scene. New bars, cafes, restaurants, shops and galleries are opening all the time. For the essentials, there is a Tesco superstore only one block from the flat that is open every day until midnight (8am-8pm on Sunday).

Another five minutes away is a branch of the wonderful Lidl chain, selling quality produce and groceries at a fraction of the price of the 'big' stores (their excellent fresh croissants are a breakfast bargain). In addition to local shops, restaurants and supermarkets (listed in our guide), Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre is a short walk away, with cinemas, an excellent and diverse food court, shops, and stunning views of the Port of Leith and the Royal Yacht Britannia.