It quickly became one of the most desirable residential areas in the city and has managed to retain that status to this day. Many of its original Georgian buildings still stand, now home to a mix of art galleries, independent shops, stylish apartments and embassies.
Thanks to careful preservation, the West End is recognised as part of Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site—a testament to its architectural significance and enduring charm. Walking through its leafy streets offers a glimpse into the grandeur of 18th-century city planning, while still feeling vibrant and lived-in today.