Hotels near Dean Village

Dean Village is a hidden cluster of 19th-century millworkers' cottages and grand stone tenements tucked into the valley of the Water of Leith, just 10 minutes' walk from Princes Street. For 800 years this stretch of river powered eleven flour mills, and the bridge, well-heads, and old grain storage buildings are still in place. The drop down from the modern city above is sudden and dramatic - you climb down a stone stair and find yourself in what feels like a village in the country.

The most photographed spot is Bell's Brae, with the curved stone bridge and Hawthornbank Lane sweeping down to the river. From there, follow the Water of Leith Walkway - a four-mile riverside footpath - east towards Stockbridge, passing St Bernard's Well and a string of Antony Gormley sculptures placed in the river.

Pro Tip: Approach from Belford Road (above) and descend via the steps next to the Modern One gallery - the entry from this angle gives the iconic postcard view. Avoid Sundays before noon when the narrow streets fill with photographers.