Local's Guide: Dean Village in Edinburgh

Edinburgh's ancient milling village set in a leafy valley, crossed by a river. A must-see iconic part of the city.

If you are planning on visiting Edinburgh, Dean Village must be in your itinerary.

A Local's Guide: Leafy Dean Village in Edinburgh

There are many things to visit in Edinburgh and I am sure your list of places to visit is long.

So why should you stay in Dean Village or go out of your way to visit this small village?

Maybe the fact that it was voted as one of the most beautiful places in UK by luxury and lifestyle travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler should convince you, but if this is not the case, let me tell you a bit more about Dean Village.

Below I will cover some of the history of the place as well as things to do and the best way to explore this magical place.

A brief history of Dean Village

Dean Village was a separate area from Edinburgh, from the 12th century until the 19th century.

It had humble beginnings, being home to river-mills and difficult times and it fell into disuse.

From the mid-1970s Dean Village had become a popular residential area, a tranquil oasis now part of Edinburgh and very close to the city centre.

With its mills restored and converted, this hidden gem flourished.

Best things to do in Dean Village

NB: If you would like to see the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art as well as Stockbridge and Dean village, I suggest you start exploring from Stockbridge.

1. Walk around the cobbled streets and visit Well Court.

I would recommend starting your walk from Bells Brae and before you walk down this path you can take in the beautiful views from Dean Bridge.

Once you have walked down Bells Brae. Walk all the way down and you will see Dean Village!

From here is up to you how you want to explore. You will definitely not want to miss Well Court Hall, an impressive space with a stunning building with its own clock tower.

2. Stroll along the Water of Leith path to Stockbridge

This path is truly beautiful, immersed in green, with the sound of the river flowing on your left, passing by the iconic St. Bernard's Well and finally arriving at Stockbridge, another popular area of Edinburgh and my personal favourite.

3. Walk to the Modern Art One and Two

If you prefer to view the best modern art the Edinburgh has to offer, then head to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. 

Be enthused by its imposing neoclassical buildings and enjoy the lovely grounds with intriguing sculptures and a uniquely shaped lawn inspired by Charles Jencks.

The gallery hosts the work of Picasso, Mondrian, Matisse and Warhol to name a few.

4. Take a tour of Dean Village with Cobble Tales

Our guests can take a journey into Dean Village's architectural history and wonders.

Visit places usually not accessible by the public and discover what makes this place and Edinburgh so beautiful.

Things to know before you visit Dean Village

This is a residential area, so you won't find a public restrooms or cafes in Dean Village, however you will find a small coffee shop that does takeaway (no restroom) in Belford Road.