Drylaw
Drylaw sits in north Edinburgh, bordered by Forth and Inverleith, and benefits from the strengths of both. It's a settled, low-key area with excellent air quality and consistently low crime figures, making it an appealing spot for families and professionals who want a quieter base without losing touch with the city. Green space is a real feature here, with Inverleith's 17 parks and Forth's own network of green areas giving residents plenty of room to walk, cycle or simply get outside.
Schools are a standout draw. Granton Primary and other solid state options sit close by, alongside some of Edinburgh's best-known independent schools, including Fettes College, Stewart's Melville and The Edinburgh Academy. This mix of state and private provision makes the area popular with families planning for the long term. Healthcare is well covered too, with GPs, dentists and a local hospital all within easy reach.
Day-to-day life is straightforward, with supermarkets, restaurants and fitness venues close at hand, and good road and cycling links making it easy to get around. Living costs run below the UK average on council tax, groceries and transport, adding to the area's practical appeal. While Drylaw itself is quieter and more residential, its position between Forth and Inverleith means residents can easily tap into the cafés, independent shops and broader amenities of these neighbouring areas, giving the best of both a settled community feel and good connectivity into central Edinburgh.
Insights powered by
Select a neighbourhood
Drylaw is a big area, so we split it into neighbourhoods to give you a better look at each. Select an area to find out more.
