Your guide to Dean Village, Edinburgh’s Hidden Gem.
Just a few steps away from the heart of Edinburgh is the charming Dean Village. A bucolic hamlet with gardens, cobblestone walkways, and historic 17th century buildings.
It’s not a place you go to do anything in particular, it’s a place you go to explore.
To soak up the atmosphere.
To Walk.
And to enjoy the views!
Dean Village is a tranquil green oasis nestled along The Water of Leith, Edinburgh’s largest river.
While there is lots to occupy you in mindful Edinburgh, a walk in Dean Village is worth a few hours of your time.
It’s an ideal tech-free travel adventure and guaranteed to add happiness to your day. Especially if you like to wander in peace & quiet.
Exploring Dean Village
I love to walk.
Walking is one of my favorite ways to get moving and a great way to explore any destination. It’s also a regular part of my engaging self-care routine and always a part of my wellness travel planning.
If you’ve been here before, you’ll know I am a big advocate of wellness travel. In today’s busy world, it’s clear that wellness travel has something to offer everyone.
After all, we could all use a bit more time these days to rest, relax, and recharge the batteries. So we can live our best lives.
Dean Village is a ideal place to stretch you legs while exploring a historic area. It’s a perfect example of what Scotland does best (in my opinion), marry its heritage with the landscape.
Founded in the 12th century, once upon a time Dean Village was a prosperous hamlet. For over 800 years no less than eleven mills thrived on the the current of the river.
During the second half of the 20th century, the area fell into decline. Yet today, it’s unique and charming is a residential area.
Here are a few reasons why Dean Village is worth a wander:
- It’s quiet, you’d never know you’re in the capital of Scotland!
- It’s picturesque and ideal for a mindful photo walk.
- It’s the perfect mix of nature and interesting period architecture.
When you explore Dean Village, here are a few things yo don’t want to miss.
Well Court
Well Court is an architectural gem.
A rare example of arts and crafts building in Edinburgh, these once tenement houses date back to the late 1800s.
If you are lucky enough to be there on a day the laundry is hanging on the lines, you’ll feel like you took a step back in time, guaranteed!
The Water of Leith Walkway
No visit to Dean Village is complete without a leisurely stroll on the river, it provides a welcome mindful travel escape.
An opportunity to be fully present, engaging with a new experience.
Running right through Dean Village, The Water of Leith Walkway is made for a walk. And you can’t go wrong either way you roam.
In one direction this public footpath leads to Dean Cemetery, then further a field to The National Gallery of Modern Art.
The other direction leads to Stockbridge, a vibrant village full of Georgian and Victorian Terraced Houses.
Dean Cemetery
Dean Cemetery is a beautiful Victorian cemetery that feels more like a peaceful garden.
Historic cemeteries are ideal places to quietly explore, and Dean is no exception.
Especially the older section. With its meandering pathways and large trees draped with hanging moss, it contemplative place to wander for a while.
Belford Mews
Side streets don’t get much more charming than Belford Mews. Walking down this street is like stepping into another era.
I have seen my share of mews in the UK, but the red sandstone makes this place something special. Along with the eye-catching dormers.
Dating back to the 19th century, these current day homes were originally designed as stables. In today’s world, it’s the kind of place you’re thrilled to find when you just decide to get lost one spring day!
St. Bernard’s Well
Just down The Water of Leith Walkway towards Stockbridge is St. Bernard’s Well.
This stunning eight towering pillar Greco-Roman structure stands a top a natural spring. Once believed to have medicinal healing powers, today this it’s simply a spot of inspiring beauty.
The Dean Village Association allows access to the interior tiled pump room the first Sunday of the month from April to August. In addition, they offer guided tours of the village.
So, what do you think? Would a wander around the quiet green oasis of Dean Village be good for your well-being?
Hope so, you’re bound to enjoy it!
until the next time…
…live well – travel well – be well
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