The Scottish neighbourhoods crowned 'coolest' with trendy bars and charming shops

Warm sunny July weather in Edinburgh, with flowers growing outside the mews houses on Circus Lane in Stockbridge, Edinburgh.
Stockbridge is beloved for its spectacular architecture and cobbled streets -Credit:georgeclerk / Getty Images


Scotland's "coolest neighbourhoods" have been crowned, and they are home to mouth-watering restaurants and charming independent businesses.

With the weather finally starting to improve, people across Scotland and beyond will be looking to get out and do a bit of exploring. While nothing can beat a day out in the spectacular Scottish countryside, sometimes it is nice to spend a few hours roaming around a scenic town or city.

Just in time for the sunny skies forecast this weekend, The Telegraph has published a list of 'Britain's 15 coolest neighbourhoods'. Among the destinations included are Stockbridge in Edinburgh and Finnieston in Glasgow.

Stockbridge, which is just a short walk from the capital's bustling city centre, is known for its lively village atmosphere and picturesque Georgian buildings. The newspaper singled out the neighbourhood's "cafés both old and new" and "thriving Sunday market".

Elsewhere, The Telegraph also praised Stockbridge for its shopping opportunities, in particular its charity shops — calling them "the best in the city". It also applauded the neighbourhood's wide variety of bookshops, as well as food spots such as The Pantry and Artisan Roast.

In terms of shopping opportunities, the newspaper drew attention to businesses like vegan fashion retailer Treen and independent perfume store Jorum Studio.

The Hidden Lane
The Hidden Lane is a community of more than 100 independent businesses, artists, eateries, and more -Credit:Photo © Richard Sutcliffe (cc-by-sa/2.0)

Meanwhile, Finnieston is a trendy area in Glasgow located on the north bank of the River Clyde. Situated between the city's West End and its city centre, it is known for its wide variety of food and drinks spots.

The Telegraph singled out restaurants such as seafood spot Crabshakk and fine dining eatery The Gannet. It also praised The Finnieston bar, which it called "spot on for cocktails".

For shopping, the newspaper called attention to Finnieston's Hidden Lane. This is a collection of around 100 shops, artists, and tearooms tucked away behind Argyle Street.

Other neighbourhoods singled out by The Telegraph include Kelham Island in Sheffield, Ouseburn in Newcastle, and Meanwood in Leeds. The full list of 'Britain's 15 coolest neighbourhoods' can be found on The Telegraph website.

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - sign up to the Scotland Now newsletter here.