Creative Director Caoilfhionn Maguire on Community and Emerging Artists in Edinburgh

Writer, photographer, digital-content strategist, and creative director, Caoilfhionn Maguire is a jack of all trades and master of many. Starting out from a small town in Northern Ireland, she has travelled to 62 countries and currently resides in Edinburgh.

Why Choose Edinburgh?

I actually moved to Edinburgh without having visited before. I distinctly remember arriving for the first time during the last weekend of the Edinburgh Fringe. The sun was shining, there was a smell of hops in the air from the neighbouring breweries, and the atmosphere was electric. The city has a bewitching effect on people: since my first move, I keep coming back, and each time living here has been a unique experience.

The Unique Charm of Edinburgh

Edinburgh is relatively small for a capital, creating a real village feel. Walking down the street, I can easily bump into someone I know. While some may find the small-town atmosphere a bit off-putting, it has helped many people foster a supportive community in the city. Independent businesses thrive, artists find space to grow, and entrepreneurs receive a significant boost—thereby nurturing a proud local identity.

Favorite Neighborhood: Leith

Leith stands out as an understated yet dynamic neighborhood. Known as the setting of Trainspotting, it has a rich, turbulent history. However, local creatives are currently transforming the area into a vibrant hub. This gritty neighborhood reveals a different side of Edinburgh that is only understood through residency.

24-Hour Edinburgh Itinerary

If I were to show a friend around for just 24 hours, our itinerary would include:

• Grabbing coffee to go from Fortitude in Stockbridge.
• Browsing the independent shops of St Stephen Street.
• Taking a photowalk from New Town to Old Town.
• Enjoying tacos at El Cartel.
• Visiting the Fruitmarket Gallery.
• Exploring Leith with an Invisible Cities tour.
• Cycling along the Water of Leith.
• Watching the sunset from Calton Hill—this is my favorite way to unwind in Edinburgh.
• Ending the evening with cocktails at Bramble Bar & Lounge or a quiet glass at Good Brothers Wine Bar.

The best way to see Edinburgh is definitely on foot; expect to be quite active!

Secrets of Edinburgh

I have two intriguing secrets I adore about Edinburgh. First, the clock at the iconic Balmoral Hotel, which overlooks Waverley rail station, always runs three minutes fast to ensure everyone is punctual for their trains. Secondly, many people are unaware that Edinburgh boasts a canal system stretching 31 miles from the west of the city to Falkirk, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or cycling adventures.

Nearby Attractions for Nature Lovers

For hiking enthusiasts, the Pentland Hills are particularly stunning in autumn. On sunny days, the beaches stretching from Aberlady to North Berwick offer a beautiful escape, easily accessed by train or bike. St Abbs, located along this route, features a scenic trail leading to one of Scotland’s most picturesque lighthouses. If you’re willing to travel a bit farther, the Tay Forest Park and Loch Tay area represent a true fairytale corner of Scotland.