A home in one of the world's great cities

Merchiston is fortunate to be based on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, and one of the world's outstanding cities. It has won numerous accolades for 'best city', and for its environment, economy, innovation and architecture.

Edinburgh is perhaps best known for its Castle, the Royal Palace of Holyrood House (the Queen's residence when in Scotland) and the ancient Royal Mile which runs along the spine of Old Edinburgh. It is no doubt one of the most picturesque cities in the world and has been regularly named Condé-Nast Traveller magazine's top UK city.

But there is more to the city than its scenery and beautiful architecture. The city is the home of the Enlightenment, the artistic, cultural, scientific and philosophical movement of the 18th Century which defines much of modern-day science, political thought and cultural activity. It has been the home to writers and poets such as Robert Louis Stevenson, Arthur Conan Doyle, Robert Burns and JM Barrie. In modern times it is where JK Rowling created Harry Potter. It is also the birthplace of the definitive 007, Sir Sean Connery.

In scientific endeavour, it was where James Clerk Maxwell (the forerunner to Albert Einstein) worked, where John Logie Baird (inventor of the television) and Alexander Graham Bell (inventor of the telephone) were born. In more modern times it is where Dolly the sheep, the world's first cloned mammal, came into existence.

The famous 18th century philosopher, economist and historian David Hume was also born and educated in the city.

  Today, Edinburgh is a bustling cosmopolitan centre, home of Europe's second largest financial sector, and the base of the world's largest arts festival. The city is packed with restaurants, arts and cultural venues and stimulating walks and views. It is also a political centre, the home of Scotland's Parliament.

At Merchiston, we ensure our boys have access to all the culture, sport and activity the city has to offer. The city forms a backdrop for much of our artistic, cultural and social education, and Merchiston boys from all over the world end their time here feeling as much a part of the city as they are part of the School. We believe the advantages of the city are undoubtedly extra added-value for parents when they are considering the School for their son.

Merchiston is a proudly Scottish school. The School's traditions, ethos, Christian values and its character draw heavily on our Scottish home. All boys, no matter where they are from, are warmly welcomed here and learn our traditions and values, which we believe will serve them well in the future.

The School is proud of its identity and Scottish traditions.

We also have the stunning Scottish countryside on our doorstep, and often take advantage of this for CCF, Duke of Edinburgh and weekend activities. Boys at the School have the best of both worlds - a vibrant and exciting city - combined with access to some of Europe's best scenery.