Balerno
About Balerno
Nestled 8 miles south-west of Edinburgh's city centre, Balerno is a charming village that offers a blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and modern community spirit. Traditionally part of the county of Midlothian, it now falls under the jurisdiction of the City of Edinburgh Council.
Historical Significance
Balerno's history is rich and diverse, particularly notable for its industrial past. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the area was home to several mills powered by the Water of Leith and its tributary, the Bavelaw Burn. The Balerno Bank Paper Mill, founded in 1810, was one of the largest and most prominent, although it closed in the early 1990s. The site has since been converted into housing, but the former offices and lodge remain as listed buildings.
Cultural Attractions
The village is home to several cultural and historical attractions. The 17th-century Malleny House and Gardens, owned by the National Trust for Scotland, feature a 3-acre walled garden and one of Scotland's largest rose collections. The gardens are also famous for the Four Apostles, four 100-year-old yew trees.
Community Life
Balerno boasts a vibrant community with various activities and events. The village hosts a monthly farmers' market on the second Saturday of each month, organized by the Balerno Village Trust. Additionally, the Balerno Village Screen, a community cinema project, offers free film screenings on the first Saturday of every month. The annual music festival, launched in 2008, brings together local talent at various venues around the village.
Natural Beauty
For nature enthusiasts, Balerno is surrounded by picturesque landscapes. The Red Moss Wildlife Reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, is one of the few remaining raised bogs in the Lothians and is managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. The nearby Water of Leith and Bavelaw Burn provide scenic walks and historical insights into the area's industrial past.
Historical Transport
The village was once served by Balerno railway station, which opened in 1874 and played a crucial role in the local economy, particularly for the goods traffic to and from the mills. Although the station closed in 1949, the stationmaster's house still stands as a private dwelling, serving as a reminder of the village's industrial heritage.
Commercial Property Agents
When considering commercial property in the UK, particularly in the charming suburb of Balerno, several key factors come into play. Here’s a glimpse into what makes Balerno an attractive location for commercial ventures.
Location and Accessibility
Balerno, situated in the City of Edinburgh, offers a unique blend of rural charm and urban accessibility. Its proximity to Edinburgh city centre, coupled with good transport links, makes it an ideal location for businesses looking to balance convenience with a more relaxed environment. The suburb is well-connected by road and public transport, ensuring easy access for employees, clients, and customers.
Types of Commercial Properties
In Balerno, you can find a variety of commercial properties tailored to different business needs. From retail spaces perfect for local shops and cafes, to industrial units suitable for manufacturing and logistics, there is a diverse range of options available. Office spaces are also plentiful, offering modern and well-equipped environments for professional services and startups.
Local economy and Community
The local economy in Balerno is vibrant and supportive, with a strong sense of community. The area is home to a mix of local businesses, from independent shops to larger enterprises, creating a dynamic and inclusive business environment. This community spirit can be a significant advantage for businesses looking to integrate and thrive locally.
Amenities and Infrastructure
Balerno boasts a range of amenities that support both businesses and their employees. Local amenities include schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational spaces, making it an attractive location for companies looking to offer a high quality of life to their staff. The infrastructure is well-developed, with reliable utilities and communication services, ensuring smooth operations for any business.
Growth and Development
The area is experiencing steady growth, with ongoing development projects aimed at enhancing the business environment. This growth presents opportunities for new businesses to establish themselves and for existing ones to expand, making Balerno a promising location for long-term investment.
By choosing Balerno for your commercial property needs, you are not only selecting a location with excellent accessibility and amenities but also becoming part of a thriving and supportive community. Whether you are looking to start a new venture or relocate an existing business, Balerno offers the perfect blend of convenience, opportunity, and quality of life.
Residential Property Agents
Balerno, a charming village on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Scotland, is an attractive destination for those seeking a tranquil yet conveniently located residential area. Situated approximately 8 miles southwest of Edinburgh's city centre, Balerno offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities.
Location and Geography
Balerno is nestled in the heart of Midlothian, although it now falls under the administrative jurisdiction of the City of Edinburgh Council. The village is strategically located at the confluence of the Water of Leith and the Bavelaw Burn, providing a picturesque setting with easy access to natural beauty. Geographically, Balerno is identified by its coordinates: 55°53′07″N 3°20′15″W, placing it in close proximity to other suburbs like Currie and Juniper Green.
History and Development
The name "Balerno" originates from the Gaelic term Baile Airneach, meaning "townland/town of the hawthorns". Historical records of the area date back to the late 13th century. The 18th century saw significant development with the establishment of flax, snuff, and paper mills along the Water of Leith, which were integral to the village's economy until recent times. Post-World War I, the area experienced substantial housebuilding, transforming it into a residential suburb of Edinburgh.
Modern-Day Living
Today, Balerno is a thriving residential community with a population of around 6,000 residents. The village benefits from its proximity to Edinburgh, offering residents easy access to the city's amenities while maintaining a peaceful suburban lifestyle. The Water of Leith Walkway, a former railway line, now serves as a popular recreational path, adding to the area's appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Connectivity and Amenities
Balerno is well-connected to Edinburgh via public transport, with the former Balerno railway line now converted into the Water of Leith Walkway. The village is also close to several airports, including Edinburgh Airport, which is just 7 miles away. Local amenities include schools, shops, and community facilities, making it an ideal location for families and professionals alike.
Property For Sale
Balerno: A Desirable Haven for Homebuyers
Nestled in the picturesque south-west of Edinburgh, Balerno is a charming village that has become a highly sought-after location for those looking to purchase a home. Here, you can find a diverse range of properties that cater to various tastes and budgets.
Property Variety
Balerno offers an extensive array of properties, from modern flats to spacious detached houses. For instance, you can find immaculately presented two-bedroom top floor flats in modern developments, such as those on Byrne Crescent, which are priced around £460,000.
For families or those seeking more space, there are numerous detached houses available. Properties like the five-bedroom detached villa on Lanark Road West, boasting stunning views and substantial living areas, are listed for offers over £315,000. Additionally, semi-detached villas and bungalows, such as the one on Crosswood Crescent, provide a more modest yet comfortable living option, priced around £290,000.
Amenities and Location
One of the key attractions of Balerno is its excellent balance of rural charm and urban convenience. The village is surrounded by vast open countryside, offering beautiful walks and scenic views. At the same time, it is well-connected to Edinburgh city centre via quick transport links, making it an ideal choice for commuters.
Local amenities are plentiful, with a range of shops, schools, and community facilities within easy reach. The area also benefits from its proximity to the City Bypass and Edinburgh Airport, enhancing its appeal for those who need easy access to major transport hubs.
Lifestyle
Living in Balerno provides a unique blend of tranquility and accessibility. Residents can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside while still being close to the vibrant city of Edinburgh. The village itself has a strong community spirit, with various local events and activities that foster a sense of belonging among its residents.
Whether you are looking for a family home, a retirement property, or an investment opportunity, Balerno has something to offer. Its combination of natural beauty, modern amenities, and convenient location makes it an increasingly popular choice for homebuyers in the UK.
Property For Rent
Balerno, a charming village on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Scotland, is an attractive option for those looking to rent a property in a scenic and historic setting. Located approximately 8 miles southwest of Edinburgh's city centre, Balerno offers a tranquil atmosphere while still being within easy reach of the city's amenities.
Location and Accessibility
Balerno is situated in the traditional county of Midlothian but now falls under the jurisdiction of the City of Edinburgh Council. The village lies at the confluence of the Water of Leith and the Bavelaw Burn, providing a picturesque backdrop for residents. Its proximity to Edinburgh makes it an ideal choice for commuters, with easy access to the city via road and public transport.
History and Amenities
The village has a rich history, with its name derived from the Gaelic "Baile Airneach," meaning "townland/town of the hawthorns." Historically, Balerno was home to several mills using waterpower, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the village boasts a mix of historic and modern buildings, including the Grey Horse Inn, the Malleny Arms Hotel (now the Balerno Inn), and various other stone buildings along Main Street. The village also features a library, which was originally the Deanpark primary school built in 1877.
Residential and Community Life
After the First World War, Balerno experienced significant residential development, which has continued to the present day. The village offers a range of housing options, from traditional stone buildings to modern estates developed by builders such as Mactaggart & Mickel from the 1950s onwards. Balerno is known for its strong community spirit, with various local amenities and a designated conservation area to preserve its historical charm.
Lifestyle and Leisure
Residents of Balerno can enjoy a variety of leisure activities, including walks along the Water of Leith Walkway, which follows the route of the old railway line. The village also has several local shops, pubs, and community facilities, making it a vibrant and welcoming place to live. For those who value both the tranquility of a village and the convenience of city living, Balerno is an excellent choice.