It's no secret that Edinburgh is full of history and culture, but one thing that's not such common knowledge is the city's ability to provide a balance between rural landscapes and a thriving business scene. From green landscapes to a strong financial district, Edinburgh has plenty to offer.
Which business sectors does this area attract?
Aside from being a beautiful city, Edinburgh's city center is accessible, diverse and future-facing. It's considered the financial hub of Scotland, with companies such as Standard Life and RBS being based here.
As well as this, Edinburgh is fast building a reputation for the technology, media and telecoms industry, thanks in part to the successful universities that are based in the city.
Transport Links
Transport links throughout Edinburgh are more than accessible, with a tram line, Lothian buses and more recently Uber servicing the center.
Despite being far apart, Scotland's capital is well-connected to England, with travel to London Euston from Edinburgh Waverley taking around four hours.
Amenities
As well as the technology, media and finance industry presence here, Edinburgh provides an excellent social scene. From restaurants with Michelin stars and London-based restaurants making the move up north to the city to something more for the everyday working lunch, Edinburgh's eating and drinking facilities are plentiful.
Edinburgh is also popular with creative arts and culture. It's home to festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe and Edinburgh Art Festival, as well as popular attractions such as Edinburgh Castle and Arthur's Seat.
Why pick this area of Edinburgh?
Exchange has undergone plenty of changes over the past five years and is becoming well-known as the business area of Edinburgh. The location is excellent for office space and is home to a mixture of both professional service companies and leisure facilities.
Transport Links
Set just out of town - a 15-minute walk from the center - the area is easily accessible by bus as well as being close to Haymarket train station.
Amenities
While the area features bars and restaurants, the presence of leisure businesses also means hotels and gyms are available in this area - ideal for both visiting clients and members of staff.
What does Leith have to offer?
Leith is up and coming in terms of its commercial offering. It's recently undergone significant developments over the last ten years or so, giving both its businesses and residential areas a boost.
This commercial development has led to Leith seeing more and more diverse companies set up a base here, including businesses such as Cisco Systems, Toshiba, Visit Scotland and the Scottish Government. It's an area that's becoming more and more known for IT and media companies, so is ideal for those that are looking for like-minded neighbors in this sector.
Transport Links
Leith is easily accessed by bus, and it is thought that the city center's tram network will eventually extend to access the area too, connecting the area to Edinburgh's airport and center.
Amenities
Not too far from Edinburgh's Old Town, Leith also hosts some of the city's best restaurants, making it an ideal location for client meetings or special work lunches.
Which business sectors does this area attract?
If a more business park-style set-up is more suited to your business, West Edinburgh is ideal. The business parks in this region, particularly Edinburgh Business Park, are home to corporate companies such as JP Morgan, HSBC and British Telecom.
As with most out-of-town locations, the business parks in West Edinburgh are typically less expensive than those based in the center, offering a saving for those that are prepared to be on the outskirts of the city.
Transport Links
Access to Edinburgh center is still readily available, however, as the tram connects the two areas as well as busses and a suitable car route. Out of the center, the business parks are serviced by various cafes ideal for lunchtimes, as well as plenty of green life to enjoy.
If you're looking for your next office space, let Workthere make it easy. View offices in Edinburgh
Not sure where to start? Our expert advisors are on hand to help you find the right office.
Looking for a new office or want to list your office space for rent? Our team of experts are on hand to help.