Edinburgh has many faces – it is not just a popular destination for travellers, tourists and business people, it is also very much a university city! Home to the University of Edinburgh, Napier University, Heriot-Watt University and Queen Margaret University the Scottish capital attracts a large number of students from all over the United Kingdom and the world.
Student life in Edinburgh reflects the fact that one fifth of its populations are students (according to The City of Edinburgh Council: http://www.edinburgh-inspiringcapital.com/study/edinburgh_student_life.aspx). Many shops, clubs, pubs and hairdressers offer a student discount. The Cosmopolitan character of the city means you will meet and make friends with people from many different corners of the world. Edinburgh has something to offer for everyone, no matter whether you’re interested in nightlife, art, comedy, or shopping. The Festival in August is a very special time here in Edinburgh – it feels as though the city doesn’t sleep for a whole month. You’ll come across so many entertainment opportunities you’ll lose count!
The quality of public transport in Edinburgh is another point recommending the city. Our local bus company, Lothian Buses was voted the UK’s top city bus operator 2011 – their route map is extensive, the service very regular. Students currently pay £40 for a monthly ticket (NightBus discount fare included). The tram works are STILL in process. Once completed you will be able to travel from St. Andrew Square all the way out to Edinburgh Airport.
The New Town of Edinburgh is at the heart of public transport in the capital. Our experience tells us that due to its central location, our part of town is popular with those visitors who come to Edinburgh to visit one of the main universities.
The universities and colleges of the Scottish capital hold regular Open Days to give students an idea of what it would be like to study at their institution in Edinburgh. We’ve picked out the following upcoming events:
- The University of Edinburgh: Undergraduate Open Days on 15 June, 3 September and 22 September 2012. Lothian Buses number 23 and 27 will take you within 3 minutes walking distance of George Square. Your journey on the bus takes about 10-15 minutes.
- Edinburgh Napier University: Undergraduate Open Day on 13 October 2012., taking place at Craiglockhart, Merchiston and Sighthill Campus. Lothian Buses number 23 and 27 go straight past The Walton’s door and will take you straight to Craiglockhart. The number 23 also goes to Merchiston!
- Heriot-Watt University: Undergraduate Open Days on 28 and 29 September. Lothian Buses numbers 25, X25, 34, 45 will take you to its Edinburgh Campus. You can catch these buses from Princes Street (currently diverted to George Street), which is a 10 minute stroll from the guest house.
- Queen Margaret: Undergraduate Open Days on 6 September and 6 October. Lothian Buses number 15/15A and 30 take you from the city centre (Princes/George Street) out to the campus in Musselburgh. First Scotrail trains go from Waverley to Musselburgh station, which is right by the campus entrance!
We still have accommodation available for most of these dates. Centrally located as we are, The Walton is an ideal choice for prospective students and their parents, who visit the city to learn more about what it is like to live and study here. For information on our rates please visit our Tariffs page.