The perfect walking route in Dean Village, Edinburgh and how to get there | Including a free map
- Gem
- Jan 11
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 12
Dean Village is a well-known spot in Edinburgh due to it's authentic views on the water and it's long history. Dean Village dates back to the 12th Century, when it was a milling community. It is located in the Stockbridge district, a unique part of Edinburgh, which is very different from the rest of the city.
The area around Dean Village feels a bit like a maze and can be hard to navigate. That is why I created a route which includes all of the picturesque hotspots. With this route you won't miss any great spots while also not wasting time on figuring it out by yourself.
Walking this route takes around 30 minutes at an average pace and ends at a very special bar with unique decor and drinks that you definitely shouldn't miss.
A link to the Google maps route including all the photo spots and the café is located at the end of this post!
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Table of Contents
1. How to get there
I recommend starting this route at Belford Bridge bus stop. Bus lines 13, 100, 2, 25 and 33 stop here, so there are plenty of options to get there from wherever you are staying. I recommend getting the Lothian Buses app, which is the official bus app in and around Edinburgh.
2. The walking route
Without further ado, here are the instructions for the walking route along with some interesting facts about the locations.
From Belford Bridge you can directly get on the Water of Leith Walkway. This takes you on a scenic walk alongside the Water of Leith. The Water of Leith which was used for many years to power the local mills.
If you continue along this path, you will stumble across the famous Dean Village picture spot. Here, before you go over the bridge on the right, I recommend turning left to Well Court. Well Court was originally built as housing for mill workers in the area, and you can view it from the courtyard.
The view of Dean Village from the first bridge
From here you walk further to Dean's Brae Bridge for another well-known view of Dean Village.
Next, walk on Miller Row. This street will lead you to the Miller Wheels.
Continue on this road and take notice of a tiny castle-like house before you go under Deans Bridge.
The castle-like house next to Deans Bridge
From here, just keep following the road and rejoin Water of Leith Walkway again. This path still leads you next to the water, which gives lovely nature views. You will also pass St. Bernard's Well, one of the most famous landmarks in this area. The statue inside of the structure is a depiction of the Greek goddess of health, Hygeia. In the 18th Century the locals believed that the water from this spring had healing powers.
Hygeia at the St. Bernard's Well
Once you are at The Dene, go up the stairs, cross the street and then go down immediately afterwards. From here you can continue walking next to the Water of Leith.
The views along the Water of Leith
At the Athony Gormley statue, which is situated in the water, you have completed your short walk and have seen all the key sights relating to Dean Village.
Turn left here and if you stay on the right side of the road you will quickly stumble upon St. Bernard's Bar; The perfect place to warm up or cool down with a drink.
3. St. Bernard's Bar
Definitely a place you shouldn't miss. This bar is filled with whimsical decorations, plays fun music, and the owner perfectly matches the atmosphere. The menu offers many interesting drinks for very reasonable prices. I ordered a watermelon drink, which surprisingly came in a huge glass with a big slice of watermelon. This place deserves a spot on everyone's bucketlist in Edinburgh.
Drinks at St. Bernard's Bar in Edinburgh
4. Google maps link
Below is the link for the Google maps which includes all the locations so that you can follow the route easily.
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