Stockbridge Edinburgh

12 October 2022|Read time 3 mins

Stockbridge is one of the most loved areas of Scotland's capital city.

Filled with charm, locals, and history, this iconic area is the perfect place to while away the hours. Find out why we love Stockbridge.

A little history of Stockbridge, Edinburgh

Nineteenth century painter Henry Raeburn may well be the man responsible for giving the Stockbridge area of Edinburgh its bohemian charm.

Raeburn lived all his life in Stockbridge's cobbled streets, just north of where Edinburgh's Georgian New Town now stands, on the other side of the Water of Leith, which for centuries separated the village from the city centre.

He is best known for his painting The Reverend Robert Walker Skating on Duddingston Loch, which hangs in Edinburgh's National Gallery of Scotland, the elaborate neoclassical edifice standing at the foot of The Mound.

In his day, Raeburn was one of the foremost portrait painters in the country.

He painted many leading figures from law, art and literature - including a famous portrait of fellow Scot Sir Walter Scott - and was friendly with Sir Joshua Reynolds. Raeburn's legacy lives on in Stockbridge, now very much part of Edinburgh, to this day.

Nearly two hundred years after Raeburn's death, the area remains home to many of the city's more creative residents.

Raeburn gave his name to Stockbridge's main thoroughfare - Raeburn Place.

His influence can also be seen elsewhere; Stockbridge today is home to the Patriothall Gallery, which has won a name for producing exciting and innovative contemporary art.

What to do in Stockbridge

Wander along Raeburn Place, past the many old-fashioned shops that have somehow survived the drive to homogeneity elsewhere on UK high streets, and you will find the Henderson Art Shop, a cornucopia of art and craft equipment.

Enjoy window-shopping at the handful of small art galleries dotted further along the street, or stop for a coffee at one of the many delis and coffee shops.

If you're in the mood for food shopping, there is a great local butcher, George Bower, and an excellent independent fishmonger, George Armstrong, that sources cold water fish directly from the coasts of Scotland.

A relaxing experience is also on offer at the Floatarium Spa, while the Royal Botanic Garden is the perfect place for a gentle stroll. 

Festivals in Stockbridge

The Neighbourgood Festival has become a fixture in the Stockbridge calendar in recent years.

It's held at the sports grounds just off Raeburn Place behind the Raeburn hotel.

Local food and drink stalls sell their produce for a few weeks each summer, giving visitors the chance to choose from a wide range of cuisine for an alfresco dining experience.

Duck racing in Stockbridge

There is no doubt that one of Stockbridge's most famous races is also one of the most innocent games in the world, perfect for those with or without children. 

With a history spanning back 30 years, visitors and locals alike send thousands of little yellow ducks along the Water of Leith.

The money raised from purchasing a duck supports selected charities, and prizes are generously donated from local shops throughout Stockbridge.

The event takes place in June each year, and is definitely one for the diary. To join in, simply sponsor your duck at one of the stores in Stockbridge, and turn up with plenty of cheer for the ducks.

Raeburn would have approved.

Book a self-catering break to Edinburgh

Stockbridge is a beautiful part of town, with a real sense of community spirit.

Book with Reserve Apartments and stroll through the village to enjoy all that it has to offer.