Location, Location, Location - Gilmerton

Just five miles from Edinburgh’s city centre lies Gilmerton – a former coal mining village which is increasing in popularity with house hunters looking for a base to put down their roots and raise their family. As a result, the area has seen a number of new build homes being built over the years.

Our Kings Gate development, which is opening this autumn, will provide more opportunity for people looking to live in the area with its exciting mix of 46 two, three and four bedroom homes.

The location of Gilmerton is ideal for those looking to be close to the city centre and for commuting to Midlothian, the Borders, Fife, Glasgow and the central belt as the City Bypass is within close proximity, making it easier for getting to work, visiting friends and family or heading further afield from Edinburgh Airport.

For those who like to indulge in a spot of shopping, there are two retail parks well worth a visit. Fort Kinnaird has an array of shops from many high street retailers, including Marks and Spencer, Mothercare and Toys R Us, allowing you to pick up a treat for yourself or something for the family. The retail park also boasts a number of restaurants and a cinema. Nearby Straiton Retail Park is home to IKEA, Sofology, as well as Scotland’s largest Next store enabling you to pick up new home furnishings.

If you like getting out and about in the fresh air, there are wonderful open spaces in neighbouring Midlothian, such as Vogrie, Roslin Glen and Dalkeith Country Park, offering endless opportunities for walking, mountain biking and fishing. There are also a variety of sporting facilities such as skiing, snowboarding or tubing at Midlothian Snowsports Centre, as well as  swimming and diving opportunities at the Royal Commonwealth Pool.

For kids, they can enjoy soft play and budding artists can unleash their creative talents by painting their own ceramic pottery. And to let their imagination go wild and catch up with prehistoric friends, why not visit Dynamic Earth and the National Museum of Scotland?

Or for something a little different, make the most of what’s on the doorstep and visit Gilmerton Cove – a series of hand carved passageways and chambers that lie below ground to the south of Gilmerton crossroads – and take up a guided tour.

If you’d like to learn about the history mining, the National Mining Museum in neighbouring Newtongrange is suitable for adults and children as there is also a soft play area where kids can burn off their energy and you can revive yourself with a cuppa and cake.

If you’re a family that enjoys going out for meals you’ll be spoilt for choice. Head into the city centre to take advantage of a variety of delights, or head into Midlothian and sample the likes of the Howgate whose building has previously been used as stabling for race-horses and a dairy.

If having everything close to your doorstep is a must, then Gilmerton is the place for you.

Image by Alljangi and licensed via Creative Commons