Edinburgh Villages

Within the city you'll find a number of self-contained communities, each with its own distinct character and village-like vibe. These 'villages' are well worth discovering for yourself and, while many of them are surprisingly close to the city centre, they are a world away from what you might expect from the capital.

Bruntsfield

Just 20 minutes walk from Princes Street lie the tall, Victorian sandstone tenements of Bruntsfield. This busy district's many delis, wine merchants, gift shops and florists give it a real village vibe. Enjoy a leisurely lunch then stroll across the Meadows - a lush green space, right in the heart of the city. You can even get some golf in, as the Meadows boasts its own links (putting equipment can be hired). Staying with the golfing theme, relax after your game in the nearby Golf Tavern, which is reputedly built on the site of the oldest golf club in Scotland.

Stockbridge

Head across George Street and down Frederick Street and Howe Street and you'll soon find yourself in Stockbridge. Explore St Stephen's Street for vintage clothes, unusual art or fabulous jewellery. The area is a real magnet for shoppers and also boasts many antique and craft shops, all ideal hunting grounds for an unusual memento of your visit. After your shopping, relax in the nearby Royal Botanical Gardens or take a stroll by the Water of Leith, then while away the rest of the afternoon in one of Stockbridge's many bars or coffee shops.

Corstorphine

There has been a settlement in this historic village since medieval times. Today the area is home to the world famous Edinburgh Zoo, where you can see over one thousand animals ranging from addax to zebra (it's also home to a huge variety of primates including some very lively lemurs!). Explore Corstorphine further and you'll come across an unusual beehive shaped dovecote, which is owned by Historic Scotland and is all that remains of Corstorphine Castle which was demolished in the 18th century. Head up Corstorphine Hill for some breathtaking views across the Forth - it's well worth the walk!

Dean Village

Dean Village lies beneath Thomas Telford's famous Dean Bridge and is a fascinating blend of old and new architecture. The area has a bit of a storybook feel to it with its quirky old buildings overlooking the Water of Leith and its bridges and winding pathways. Walk along the Water of Leith towards nearby Stockbridge and you'll come across St Bernard's Well with its faux temple. Or, if you head in the other direction, you¿re just a short walk from the National Gallery of Modern Art and the Dean Gallery.

Colinton

Although only about 15 minutes drive from the city centre, Colinton feels as if it's a million miles away. Few of the Edinburgh villages have such a feeling of being entirely separate from the rest of the city. Colinton is a great place to stroll round and the old kirk (church) and its fascinating churchyard are definitely worth investigating.

Cramond

This coastal area is great for an afternoon adventure - wander along the beach and cross the causeway to Cramond Island (be very careful about the tides, they can change more quickly than you may expect and come in fast). The area is rich in history and the Romans had a settlement here. The village itself has a really relaxed feel, with picturesque whitewashed cottages with pretty gardens and some cosy pubs and cafes for leisurely lunches. The car parking here is good and it's also easy to get to by bus, so it's really worth a visit.

Leith

Probably one of Edinburgh's fastest-growing areas, Leith has enjoyed a major redevelopment in the last few years and now boasts some exciting hotels, shops, bars and housing. Its long maritime history is evident in the many fabulous seafood restaurants and the fact that the Royal Yacht Britannia - a five-star visitor attraction - is berthed alongside Ocean Terminal, the area's stylish shopping and entertainment mall. Visit the new weekly market, which is held every Saturday, and find unusual antiques and fine foods. And, if you're around in June, catch the Leith Festival, which offers music, poetry, comedy and theatre.