Edinburgh Commuter Challenge: Picardy Place
In ESPC's latest "Edinburgh Commuter Challenge," get ready for an exciting race through the city! Four eager contestants are on a mission: to zip from Picardy Place to their neighborhoods using different travel methods. Lindsay hops on the bus to Morningside, Claire jumps aboard the tram to Newhaven, Kimberley pedals to Musselburgh, and Ash takes a leisurely stroll to Stockbridge. But here's the twist: they've only got 30 minutes!
As the clock starts ticking, it's all hands on deck navigating the bustling streets and unexpected surprises. From the convenience of public transit to the freedom of cycling and strolling, each contestant showcases a unique way to get around Edinburgh.
Whether they're zooming by bus, cruising on the tram, pedaling like champs, or taking it slow with a leisurely stroll, this challenge is all about embracing the Edinburgh commute!
Our Edinburgh Commuter Challenge neighbourhoods:
Morningside, Edinburgh South
To get to and from Morningside from Picardy Place using the bus, you have several options:
Lothian Buses Route 5: This route operates between the city centre (Picardy Place) and Hunter's Tryst, passing through Morningside. You can catch this bus at Picardy Place and ride it through Edinburgh's Old Town along to Morningside Road. The frequency of this service is approximately every 10-15 minutes during peak times and every 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours.
Lothian Buses Route 23: This route runs between Trinity (via Picardy Place) and Greenbank. You can catch this bus at Picardy Place and ride it through Tollcross and Bruntsfield to Morningside Road, which is the main street in Morningside. The frequency of this service is approximately every 10 minutes during peak times and every 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours.
Key Facts about Morningside:
- Morningside is a vibrant and affluent neighborhood located to the south of Edinburgh's city center.
- Morningside is home to the popular Morningside Road, which features a diverse range of independent retailers, including bookshops, boutiques, and delicatessens.
- The area boasts several green spaces, including Morningside Park and the picturesque Hermitage of Braid.
- Morningside has a strong sense of community and is popular with families and young professionals alike due to its excellent schools, amenities, and easy access to the city center.
Newhaven, Edinburgh East
To get to and from Newhaven from Picardy Place using the tram, you have one primary option: Edinburgh Trams
The tram service runs between Edinburgh Airport and Newhaven, with a stop at Picardy Place. From Picardy Place, you can board the tram heading towards Newhaven and alight at the Newhaven tram stop. The frequency of the tram service is approximately every 7 minutes during peak times and every 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours.
Key Facts about Newhaven:
- Newhaven is a historic port district located to the north of Edinburgh's city centre, along the Firth of Forth.
- It is known for its maritime heritage, with a picturesque harbor and fishing industry that dates back centuries.
- Newhaven is undergoing significant redevelopment, with projects aimed at revitalizing the waterfront area, including new residential developments, restaurants, and leisure facilities.
- The area offers stunning views of the Firth of Forth and is popular for leisurely walks along the waterfront promenade.
- Newhaven is home to attractions such as the Newhaven Heritage Museum, which celebrates the area's maritime history, and the iconic Victoria Swing Bridge.
Stockbridge, Edinburgh City Centre
To get to and from Stockbridge on foot from Picardy Place, you can follow a scenic route that takes you through Edinburgh's city centre and takes around 20 minutes. Here are the key steps:
- Start your journey at Picardy Place and head towards York Place.
- Walk down York Place, onto Queen Street and take a right down Queen St Gardens West.
- Walk down the hill on to Howe Street, then take a left on to Circus Place.
- Follow Circus Place until you reach Kerr Street in Stockbridge.
Key Facts about Stockbridge:
- Stockbridge is a charming neighborhood located to the north of Edinburgh's city centre, bordered by the Water of Leith to the south and Inverleith Park to the north.
- It is known for its eclectic mix of independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafes, restaurants, and artisanal food markets.
- Stockbridge is home to several historic landmarks, including the elegant Georgian and Victorian architecture that lines its streets.
- Inverleith Park, located on the northern edge of Stockbridge, offers expansive green spaces, stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, and recreational facilities for locals and visitors to enjoy.
- With its vibrant atmosphere, historic charm, and scenic surroundings, Stockbridge is a popular destination for both residents and tourists looking to experience the best of Edinburgh's culture and community.
Musselburgh, East Lothian
To get to and from Musselburgh from Picardy Place on a bike, you can follow National Cycle Network Route 1, which provides a scenic and relatively direct cycling route between Edinburgh and Musselburgh. Here are the key steps:
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National Cycle Network Route 1: Start your journey at Picardy Place and head east along the designated cycle lanes on Leith Walk.
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Leith Links: Continue along Leith Walk until you reach Leith Links, a large public park. Follow the signs for National Cycle Network Route 1, which will lead you onto the off-road cycle path towards Portobello.
- Leith to Musselburgh: Once you reach Newhaven, follow the signs for National Cycle Network Route 1 as it continues eastward along the coast towards Musselburgh. The route passes through scenic coastal areas and parks, including Portobello Beach, before reaching Musselburgh.
Key Facts about Musselburgh:
- Musselburgh is a historic town located to the east of Edinburgh, along the southern shore of the Firth of Forth.
- It is known for its rich heritage, including the remains of a Roman fort, and its close ties to horse racing, with Musselburgh Racecourse being one of Scotland's oldest racecourses.
- Musselburgh is home to several notable landmarks, including the 16th-century Old Town Hall and the stunning ruins of Newhailes House, a National Trust for Scotland property.
- The town boasts a vibrant high street with a mix of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as picturesque green spaces such as Musselburgh Links, the oldest golf course in the world.
- Musselburgh offers easy access to coastal walks, beaches, and nature reserves, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers
