Shandon or Willowbrae?

[Jazzberry]

Hi there,

This is my first post on Mumsnet and am just looking for some advice. My fiance and I are expecting our first child in January and have recently sold our flat. We've found two properties we like - one in Shandon and one in Willowbrae. I don't really know the areas very well and I just wondered if anyone could offer advice on the areas or local schools.

The local primary school in Shandon would be Craiglockhart Primary and in Willowbrae would be Parsons Green. The property in Willowbrae is lovely but we're a bit concerned about it being so close to London Road/Jock's Lodge area which is quite rough. Any advice most appreciated!

Thanks

Both primary schools are really good - I've heard a lot of good of good things about craiglockart but I have family who stay in Willowbrae and never have any problems. It's also handily close to Arthur's seat for outdoors things, and meadowbank for baby and toddler classes etc. Hope that helps!

Hi. I've lived in Shandon for the past 2 years. Craiglockhart school is well regarded and families are often keen to move into the catchment. Easy bus journey into town. Local parks. Very family friendly. We're moving out the area shortly but that's to get bigger garden and decent parking. Downside of Shandon is parking is pretty awful, bordering on a nightmare in evenings.

Don't really know Willowbrae so can't comment.

I'd go for Shandon. I used to live in the area however this was pre children . Friends that went to the primary school were happy. The only issue seemed to be was being in the catchment for Tynecastle.

Great parks nearby, Union Canal walks, Fountainpark for the cinema, easy access into the city, walkable to good reastaurants bars in other areas n Bruntsfield etc I have fond memories of living there.

I have to agree with Seaweed that parking was a nightmare esp when there was a game at Tynecastle or Murryfield, but it also is where I am now 24/7. They joys of living in Edinburgh...

Should have also added that Craiglockhart sports centre is nearby, which I would say is the best in Edinburgh in its range of classes for adults and children.