Edinburgh East

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Edinburgh East is a UK Parliament constituency in Scotland, covering the eastern part of the City of Edinburgh. It elects one Member of Parliament (MP) by the first-past-the-post system.

History and name changes: The seat first existed from 1885 to 1997 as a burgh constituency. From 1997 to 2005 it was known as Edinburgh East and Musselburgh. In 2005 it was redefined as Edinburgh East, including eastern Edinburgh and parts around Musselburgh. After the 2023 boundary review, the seat was expanded to include most of Musselburgh and was renamed Edinburgh East and Musselburgh for the 2024 election.

Boundaries and what it covers: The constituency is one of five in the City of Edinburgh council area. For 2005–2024 it included the wards of Tollcross, Southside, Holyrood, Meadowbank, Mountcastle, Leith Links, Restalrig, Portobello, Milton, Prestonfield, Craigmillar, and Duddingston. It encompasses much of the eastern city centre (including Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile, and St Giles’ Cathedral) as well as the University of Edinburgh, Portobello Beach, and eastern suburbs such as Craigmillar and Duddingston.

Character and demographics: It is largely urban, with some deprived areas. On average, residents have been described as slightly wealthier and healthier than the UK average.