I am thinking of relocating to the outskirts of Edinburgh from West Sussex!?

Question

Just wondered if anyone had made that move. Edinburgh seems to offer so much more. The house prices are cheaper and you get more for your money not to mention the people are generally friendly. Any advice? It is a big step. My partner is from Edinburgh so at least he knows the area and his family are there. I have four children that will need to relocate too. So wondered what the schools were like? Weather I know can be poor compared to West Sussex but hey there seems so much more to do.

Answer 1

I'm scottish and live half the time in Edinburgh (which I love) and half the time in Hampshire...so not that far from Sussex.



I do really like living in Edinburgh - as you say, there is a lot going on, its a great city, but you also have access to beautiful countryside. Accommodation can be pretty pricey in Edinburgh, but if you pick the right area you should be able to find something within budget and in a nice neighbourhood. Further in towards the centre prices would probably be on a par with Sussex though!



I dont know what the schools are like, and also it depends exactly what area you go for. Not sure I can be much more help, as i equally love staying in Hampshire for the countryside and as there is a lot going on down their too. The cities aren't really up to much though!!

Answer 2

East Lothian is good if you fancy something like a rural or small town place. Haddington's really nice and it's only about a 45 minute drive in traffic to Edinburgh centre.

The house prices are cheaper if you don't want to live in central Edinburgh, because they're stupidly expensive there, and given that you have four children I'd suspect the city centre might not be what you're after anyway.



Transport links in Edinburgh are excellent, and a new tram system has just been given the go-ahead scheduled for completion in 2011 so that's only going to get better. Plus you've got Edinburgh Airport about half an hour from the city centre and a plan to connect it directly to the rail network.



We've just moved from Portsmouth up to Bo'ness, and it's great here. But then we're both Scottish and this is us getting closer to home!

Answer 3

I have lived in Edinburgh all my life. I'm quite surprised that the house prices are cheaper your looking at £140k for a 1 bed flat. The education here is good. Trinity primary and Abbey hill are high up there education wise also Flora Stevenson, and sheen's. There's loads to do, The Edinburgh festival is on for 3 weeks in August then there's the Christmas thing in Princes street gardens with an over priced ice rink German markets and a huge Ferris wheel. Shoppings fantastic and the public transport is superb. Its a huge step for you and your kids but you don't want to spend your whole life wondering what if??

Answer 4

Having relocated from Yorkshire to the West of Edinburgh I would say do it BUT not to the West.



We have had to move because of the bullying my children got for being English and it wasnt just from other children. Our car was torched 3 times and our home was spray painted. That was a real down side!!



On the whole the education system is better most people are friendly, children get to socialise with many cultures, there is plenty of things to do!



You get fined for dropping cig ends so the streets are cleaner! The bus system is pretty good/cheap. You can jump on a train to anywhere. You get ice cream vans selling everything you could run out of every couple of hours! There is plenty of youth clubs etc



If you want to ask anything specific just email me.



Tracyx

Answer 5

Edinburgh is a great place however unless you are really intend to move quite far out I think you may have been mis-informed about house prices - Edinburgh house prices only come second to London and like most sought after areas you will pay a huge premium on top of this to buy property within the catchment areas of good schools. Good Luck

Answer 6

Why not move to Livingston in West Lothian, 30 mins in car from Edinburgh city centre. Has appox 85,000 people living there and has 250 shops. A great place to live.

Answer 7

Hi,

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no surveys, no scams, just the full game!

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For me, it's the best game ever.

Answer 8

East Lothian would be ideal. Haddington, Aberlady are really nice. Gullane is beautiful, with the beach right at your doorstep.



Make that move to Edinburgh. You won't regret it.

Answer 9

Edinburgh is beautiful and I am sure your children will get a much better education. The Scottish education system is considered superior to ours. Good luck.

Answer 10

Been watching the best & worst places to live then eh!

But I must agree Edinburgh is a lovely city.

Answer 11

Which 'side' are you looking at?



East Lothian is lovely, mid and west aren't as scenic but nice, Fife is ok - if that's your thing!

Answer 12

In the winter it gets dark there at about 4.30. They all speak with a strange accent. They film Rebus there. I wouldn't go.

Answer 13

Stay where you are. Edinburgh has enough white settlers.

Answer 14

They are not keen on the English, don't say, i didn't tell you.

Answer 15

Do it. You will never regret it. Edinburgh is a very cosmopolitan city so being English will not be a problem.



Here are some things to do here.



Attractions



General



CAMERA OBSCURA & WORLD OF ILLUSIONS

Castlehill, Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2ND

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.camera-obscura.co.uk

5 great attractions in 1 visit. CAMERA OBSCURA: Amazing live moving panorama of the city - spy on passers-by below and pick them up in your hand!

ROOFTOP VIEWS: 360 degree views with free telescopes. MAGIC GALLERY: Shake hands with your ghost & discover a new you in the Morphing Machine. Amazing optical illusions & endless hands-on fun! LIGHT FANTASTIC: Stunning hologram display. EDINBURGH VISION: 3D cityscapes & viewcams.



SCOTCH WHISKY EXPERIENCE

354 Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH1 2NE

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk

Situated beside Edinburgh Castle at the top of the Royal Mile, the Scotch Whisky Experience reveals the mystery behind Malt, Grain & Blended whisky. The Whisky Tour includes a barrel ride through whisky history and a chance to meet our resident ghost.

Adults also get a free taste of whisky, and children receive a soft drink and balloon. Visit our Whisky Bar with over 270 different whiskies and Restaurant serving excellent 'Taste of Scotland' lunches, coffees and cakes. Our Gift Shop has an extensive range of whisky. Open seven days (except Christmas day) 9.30am-5.30pm.



Clan Tartan Centre - Leith Mills

70 - 74 Bangor Road, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 5JU

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.ewm.co.uk

Only 5 minutes from the Royal Yacht Britannia you will find a world of truly Scottish style. In our clan tartan centre you can find out if your name is linked to a Scottish clan or tartan. Search our database of 50,000 names and take a printed clan certificate home with you. Browse at leisure through a superb selection of knitwear, tartan, gifts and souvenirs. Free parking.



GEOFFREY (TAILOR) KILTMAKERS & WEAVERS

(inc 21st Century Kilts)



Kiltmaking, Highland Dress, Tartan Design, Weaving.... Shop

Tartan Weaving Mill & Exhibition Within The Edinburgh Old Town Weaving Co, 555 Castle Hill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2ND

(next to Edinburgh Castle).

Gift Shop: 0131 226 4162 Weaving Exhibition: 0131 226 1555

Or visit us at our Head Office, Mail Order Enquiries and Main Shop:

57/59 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH1 2ND

(next door to John's Knox House)

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail] Web: www.geoffreykilts.co.uk





Water of Leith Visitor Centre

24 Lanark Road, Edinburgh, EH14 1TQ

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

The centre has photographic and interactive displays on Edinburgh's river plus information on history, wildlife and maps for the Water of Leith walkway. Guided walks for groups can be booked by prior arrangement. Assisted wheelchair access.



BRASS RUBBING CENTRE

Trinity Apse, Chalmers Close, High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1SS

Tel: [phone]

Web: www.cac.org.uk

Open: Apr to Sep: Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm, Sunday (August only) 12noon - 5pm Admission free (charge to make a rubbing).

The Brass Rubbing Centre occupies Trinity Apse, the only surviving fragment of the Gothic Trinity College Church, founded in 1460 by Queen Mary of Gueldress, wife of James II of Scotland.

No experience is required to make a brass rubbing and staff are on hand to help.



Shaping a Nation

Fountainpark, Dundee Street, Edinburgh, EH11 1AW

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Entertaining and educational visitor attraction. Explores the innovative and creative energy of the Scottish people through the use of state of the art interactive technology, culminating in an exciting and unique motion simulator ride around Scotland. Unforgettable experience for all ages.



ONE WORLD SHOP

St Johns Church, Princes Street, Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH2 4BJ

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.oneworldshop.co.uk



Open: Mon-Sat, 10am-5.30pm. Thurs, 10am - 7pm. (Sundays in August, November and December).



The One World Shop is a FAIR TRADE shop offering a beautiful range of handicrafts, clothing, jewellery, textiles, food and drinks from all over the world.

Situated beside St Johns Church at the West End of Princes Street. Do drop in! Visit our Glasgow Shop at 100 Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TB. Tel: [phone].



Edinburgh Dungeon

31 Market Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1QB

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Indoor visitor attraction depicting darkest chapters of Scottish history. Heavy emphasis on interaction, via actors, ride and tableaux. The attraction blends horror and humour to represent Scotland's bloody past. Please note that the Edinburgh Dungeon may not be suitable for very young children, or for those of a nervous (or squeamish) disposition.



The Royal Observatory Visitors Centre

Blackford Hill, Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH9 3HJ

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.roe.ac.uk

The Observatory houses one of Scotland's largest telescopes and also features interactive exhibits on light and prisms; a computer gallery with the latest CD-ROMs based on space and astronomy in general and science books, posters and toys can be found in the shop. A history of the Observatory is also available and you can enjoy the panoramic view of Edinburgh without the aid of a telescope! Partial disabled access.



3D Loch Ness

Loch Ness Discovery Centre, 1 Parliament Square, Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1RE

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.3dlochness.com

The Secret of Loch Ness in Stereo 3D. Your chance to learn about the real environment of Loch Ness and to investigate the legend of Nessie. What is the evidence? What are the problems? Could it be true? 1000 Eyewitness Accounts, Photographs, Hoaxes, Illusions, Facts and Figures, Ecology, History & Mystery & Much More. Suitable for all ages and great fun for all the family. Visit The Nessie Shop Souvenirs, Gifts and Quality Merchandise. Open all year. Narrated in five languages. Designed & Presented by Naturalist Adrian Shine Leader of the Loch Ness Project. Journey over the sunlit hills above Loch Ness down into the abyss. Life is sparse in the cold deep waters .... but not absent!



Bo' ness & Kinneil Railway

Bo' ness Station, Union Street, Bo' ness, EH51 9AQ

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

7 mile round trip by steam train to Birkhill for visit to scenic Avon gorge and guided tour of Birkhill fireclay mine. Scotland's largest collection of locomotives, rolling stock and relocated railway buildings in Bo'ness. Assisted wheelchair access to train and exhibition but no access to mine. Ramped access for wheelchair users. Awarded 3 star visitor attraction by Scottish Tourist Board.



Edinburgh Science Festival

Roxburgh's Court, Off 323 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1PW

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

The Edinburgh Science Festival is 12 days of non-stop events - shows, workshops, hands-on activities, talks, exhibitions and tours - that will inspire, stimulate and entertain you. Events take place in venues in and around the city every Easter.



The Edinburgh Crystal Visitor Centre

Eastfeild, Penicuik, Midlothian EH26 8HB

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Visit are Heritage Centre to marvel at exquisite pieces of Edinburgh Crystal produced over the last 137 years. Chat to the master craftsmen as they transform plain crystal into pieces of art. Shop in the world's largest Edinburgh Crystal first quality and seconds outlet, and relax in our scrumptious restaurant.



Our Dynamic Earth

112-116, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH8 8AS

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.dynamicearth.co.uk

Our Dynamic Earth is one of Edinburgh's "must see" attractions. It's a fantastic journey of discovery, using dramatic special effects, stunning imagery and state-of-the-art interactive displays, that take you from the very beginning of time to our unknown future. Discounts available for groups of 12 and over.



The Royal Yacht Britannia

Ocean Terminal, Leith, Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH6 6JJ

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk

Now at Edinburgh's stylish waterfront shopping and leisure development, Ocean Terminal, in the historic port of Leith, only 2 miles from the city centre. Visit the Britannia Visitor Centre and learn about life on board and then step on board and tour the five main decks of Britannia, with the aid of a complimentary audio handset. Visitors can then browse in the shop. Go to the Visitor Centre or call information line for tickets.



The Cadies & Witchery Tours

84 West Bow (Victoria Street), Edinburgh, EH1 2HH

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.witcherytours.com

The Cadies and Witchery Tours provide light-hearted ghostly walking tours around the old town of Edinburgh. Tours operate all year round and booking in advance is essential. Visit our ghosts in person by calling into our ghoulish gift shop. We stock a range of unusual and novelty items which include: historical books and videos, CD's, DVD's, pewter giftware, hand crafted cards and candles, framed art prints, numerous gothic gifts, clothing and ghostly mugs!





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Theme Parks





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Walks & Viewpoints



Edinburgh Saints & Sinners Walking Tours

Web: www.oldtowntours.co.uk



City of the Dead Tours

Blackhart Story Tellers, 40 Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh, EH1 2QE

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.blackhart.uk.com

Historical tours, ghost tours & storytelling. Professional actors, historians and storytellers combine to enthral with original tales. City of the Dead Graveyard Tour, featuring the infamous "McKenzie Poltergeist" takes the ghost tours to new levels of terror!!! Tour not suitable for young children.



Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour

Suite 2, 97b West Bow, Edinburgh, EH1 2JP

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.scot-lit-tour.co.uk

Follow in the steps of Scotland's literary heroes to the famous and infamous pubs of Edinburgh. Experience Burns, Scott, Stevenson and many more. Duration of tour 2 hours. A brilliant and witty dramatic romp through the winds, courtyards and pubs of Edinburgh's Old and New Town.



Leith Walks

11 Madeira Place, Edinburgh, EH6 4AN

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.leithwalks.co.uk

Good quality guided walks in the city, revealing the sights, skyline and history of the capital, mostly away from the traffic. Or go walking in the neighbouring Pentland Hills. Alternatively, get out of town with a friendly, knowledgeable driver/guide, to places you would never reach alone! Everything discussed, researched and conducted by the proprietor.



Mercat Tours Ltd

Mercat House, Niddry Street South, Edinburgh, EH1 1NS

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.mercattours.com

'The best ghost & history walking tours in Scotland. STB **** attraction. Scottish Thistle Award Winner. Historically authentic. Dramatically presented. Exclusive access to the Underground Vaults, largest area of hidden chambers beneath the city streets. Historic tavern... Haunted graveyard...Stories to make your flesh creep. 6 tours available, all year round. (except Dec 24,25,26) Daytime history tours; evening ghost tours. Full details on website.



Celtic Trails

17 Falcon Gardens, Edinburgh, EH10 4AP

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.celtictrails.co.uk

Unique half/full-day tours by people-carrier to beautiful ancient sites of historic & cultural significance. Not a bus tour! Tours are researched in depth, offering a truly personalised day out. Rosslyn Chapel, sites of ancient Edinburgh, Knights Templars, Celtic saints & prehistory. Country gardens in Border hills & ancient Midlothian chapels. Geared to personal interests (e.g. archaeology, early Christians, sacred site). Intro sessions - refreshments, fees & notes.



Auld Reekie Tours

45 Niddry Street (Just off the Royal Mile), Edinburgh, EH1 1LG

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.auldreekietours.co.uk

Visit Auld Reekie's underground city and see a working witches temple, legendary haunted vault with over 70 paranormal occurrences, medieval torture chambers with instruments from the infamous Nuremberg Castle and our terrifying execution dungeons featuring real guillotines, racks, etc. Witchcraft restaurant available for corporate and private tours. Please note that ticket prices are not inclusive of entry fees to attractions.



The Cadies & Witchery Tours

84 West Bow (Victoria Street), Edinburgh, EH1 2HH

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.witcherytours.com

The Cadies and Witchery Tours provide light-hearted ghostly walking tours around the old town of Edinburgh. Tours operate all year round and booking in advance is essential. Visit our ghosts in person by calling into our ghoulish gift shop. We stock a range of unusual and novelty items which include: historical books and videos, CD's, DVD's, pewter giftware, hand crafted cards and candles, framed art prints, numerous gothic gifts, clothing and ghostly mugs!





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Zoos & Wildlife Parks



EDINBURGH ZOO

134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH12 6TS

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone].

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.edinburghzoo.org.uk

The wildest visitor attraction in Scotland, this leading Zoo is home to over 1,000 rare and beautiful animals. Gift shop, cafeterias & wonderful hilltop safari ride - it's a great day out. Attractions include: Asiatic lions in wonderful new enclosure, fantastic walk through enclosure for lemurs, two new children's play areas, meet the keeper sessions and all new live animal presentations.



Gorgie City Farm

51 Gorgie Road, Edinburgh, EH11 2LA

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

This child-friendly attraction is billed as "a breath of the countryside in the heart of the city". There is a pet lodge and loads of friendly farm animals for you to meet including goats, ponies, poultry, rabbits, sheep and tortoises. Bring your hamper and set out your spread in the idyllic picnic area. Children can enjoy the play areas and the educational Discovery Centre. There is also the chance to have a go at woodworking, spinning, weaving and pottery in the workshops. Birthday parties and group tours can be catered for, and there are vegetable, herb and wildlife gardens to explore too. Admission: is free - donations are welcome.



Falconry Scotland

Web: www.falconryscotland.co.uk

Welcome to Falconry Scotland - providing falconry services from our centres at Jedforest and Dalhousie. Both of our centres provide the opportunities for handling falcons, hawks, owls and eagles. Whether it be for an experienced falconer, a beginner, a corporate day, a school visit, a gift, a special occasion or just for fun, we can provide you with whatever you need. Whatever you choose to do, our experienced falconers are on hand to advise on any activity you may wish to partake in, or event you wish to arrange - just give us a call. We look forward to seeing you soon!



Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World

Dobbies Garden World, Lasswade, Midlothian, EH18 1AZ

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

Web: www.edinburgh-butterfly-world.co.uk

Free flying exotic butterflies in an indoor tropical rainforest. Bugs and Beasties exhibition, Reptile Room, Honeybee display. Cure your phobias with our daily 'meet the beasties' handling sessions. Also gift shop and garden centre.





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