Edinburgh Fringe Festival

The Savills Blog

Contemporary living in the festival city of Edinburgh

When the International Festival Fringe 2023 draws to a close at the end of the week, Edinburgh will bid farewell to thousands of performers and visitors from more than 60 different countries. As the largest annual cultural festival in the world, it also attracts around 750 professional media outlets from across the globe, shining an international spotlight on Scotland’s capital city.

The bustling, colourful and rather bohemian city takes on a more sedate and relaxed feel during the remaining 49 weeks of the year. Yet when the last of the posters, bunting, banners and temporary venues have been taken down, its enduring attributes become most apparent. 

It is often described as a city that is easy to live in with historic architecture blending seamlessly with contemporary buildings, and with easy access to education, work, cultural and leisure amenities. Indeed, Edinburgh consistently attracts a large proportion of new residents from all over the world:  around 15-20 per cent of Savills buyers each year are from outside Scotland, and the capital continues to be the most searched for location outside London on Savills website. 

While its house prices represent value for money compared with London, the Edinburgh market consistently outperforms most UK locations, both in terms of price growth and the number of sales. Even in a more challenging market, the best properties retain their value and attract multiple offers, achieving premiums for the seller.

Brand new or refurbished homes in the city are a great option for those who plan to lock-up-and leave Edinburgh for some of the year, as well as for those who wish to put down roots in this lively capital all year round. Here are six of the best contemporary city centre homes from which you can enjoy Edinburgh’s many cultural opportunities.

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