Parks and Rec

Edinburgh's Public Parks and Recreation areas are perfect for friends and families seeking outdoor activities and natural beauty. Fortunately the parks are vast and plentiful, however this means it would take a long time to visit and, more importantly, enjoy all of the green spaces Edinburgh has to offer. Therefore we have suggested different  tours that you can choose from and customize when you want a break from the city, to see some birds and plants, or mixing historical sites with natural ones.

Possible Tour Itineraries (Adaptable):

  • Half-Day Nature Focus: Royal Botanic Garden and Inverleith Park (easily combined as they are adjacent).
  • Half-Day Birds Focus: Lochend Park 
  • Half-Day Active & Scenic: Holyrood Park (focus on Arthur's Seat climb or Salisbury Crags walk). 
  • Full-Day City & Nature Mix: Princes Street Gardens (morning/lunch), Water of Leith Walkway (afternoon stroll), ending near Dean Village.
  • Multi-Day Exploration: Spread out visits to all of Edinburgh's green spaces over 3-4 days, perhaps combining parks with other Edinburgh attractions.

Tour Duration: Flexible, can be adapted for a half-day, full-day, or multiple days depending on your interests and time.

Transportation: Walking, cycling, and public transport are all viable options for getting around to these parks. Consider using Edinburgh's bus network or renting bikes for longer distances.

Parks and Recreation Areas :

1. Princes Street Gardens

    • Description: Located in the heart of Edinburgh, nestled between the Old and New Towns, Princes Street Gardens offer a beautiful green space with iconic views of Edinburgh Castle. Perfect for a relaxing break in the city center and enjoying manicured gardens.
    • Activities & Nature Appreciation:
      • Walking and Strolling: Enjoy paved paths through the gardens.
      • Floral Displays: Admire seasonal flowerbeds and manicured lawns.
      • Ross Fountain: A Victorian-era fountain as a central feature.
      • Views of Edinburgh Castle: Iconic and picturesque views.
      • Scott Monument: A prominent Victorian Gothic monument within the gardens.
      • Picnics and Relaxation: Benches and grassy areas for relaxing and enjoying the atmosphere.
      • Family-Friendly: Play areas and open spaces suitable for children.
    • Address: Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2HG, United Kingdom
    • Website: Princes Street Gardens on Edinburgh Council Website

 

2. The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

    • Description: A world-renowned scientific center for the study of plants, the Royal Botanic Garden offers a tranquil escape with diverse plant collections from around the globe. It's perfect for nature appreciation and gentle outdoor exploration.
    • Activities & Nature Appreciation:
      • Walking and Trails: Explore over 70 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and woodlands.
      • Glasshouses: Discover tropical and temperate plants in the ten glasshouses.
      • Scottish Heath Garden: See native Scottish plants.
      • Chinese Hillside: Admire plants from China and other parts of Asia.
      • Rock Garden: Explore plants from mountain regions around the world.
      • Pond and Water Features: Enjoy the serene water landscapes.
      • Wildlife Spotting: Look out for birds and other wildlife.
      • Family-Friendly: Spacious grounds, cafes, and visitor center make it suitable for families.
    • Address: Arboretum Pl, Edinburgh EH3 5NZ, United Kingdom
    • Website: Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Website

 

3. Holyrood Park & Arthur's Seat

    • Description: A historic Royal Park offering dramatic hills, lochs, glens, ridges, and basalt cliffs. Arthur's Seat, the park's highest point, provides panoramic views of Edinburgh. Ideal for those seeking more active outdoor pursuits and stunning vistas.
    • Activities & Nature Appreciation:
      • Hiking and Hillwalking: Climb Arthur's Seat for 360-degree city views or explore Salisbury Crags.
      • Walking Trails: Numerous paths for leisurely strolls around the park and lochs.
      • St Margaret's Loch & Duddingston Loch: Observe waterfowl and enjoy the waterside scenery.
      • Historic Sites: Explore St Anthony's Chapel ruins and the wells within the park.
      • Wildlife: Observe birds, rabbits, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
      • Picnics: Enjoy scenic picnic spots throughout the park.
      • Family-Friendly: Various trails cater to different fitness levels, making it accessible for families, though Arthur's Seat climb is more challenging.
    • Address: Edinburgh, EH8 8HG, United Kingdom (Main entrance near Holyrood Palace)
    • Website: Holyrood Park on Historic Environment Scotland Website

4. Lochend Park

    • Description: A historic Royal Park offering dramatic hills, lochs, glens, ridges, and basalt cliffs. Arthur's Seat, the park's highest point, provides panoramic views of Edinburgh. Ideal for those seeking more active outdoor pursuits and stunning vistas.
    • Activities & Nature Appreciation:
      • Hiking and Hillwalking: Climb Arthur's Seat for 360-degree city views or explore Salisbury Crags.
      • Walking Trails: Numerous paths for leisurely strolls around the park and lochs.
      • St Margaret's Loch & Duddingston Loch: Observe waterfowl and enjoy the waterside scenery.
      • Historic Sites: Explore St Anthony's Chapel ruins and the wells within the park.
      • Wildlife: Observe birds, rabbits, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
      • Picnics: Enjoy scenic picnic spots throughout the park.
      • Family-Friendly: Various trails cater to different fitness levels, making it accessible for families, though Arthur's Seat climb is more challenging.
    • Address: Edinburgh, EH8 8HG, United Kingdom (Main entrance near Holyrood Palace)
    • Website: Holyrood Park on Historic Environment Scotland Website

 

5. Inverleith Park

    • Description: A large park north of the city center, offering panoramic views of the Edinburgh skyline, including the Castle and Arthur's Seat. Known for its recreational facilities and open green spaces, it's great for active families and those wanting city views.
    • Activities & Nature Appreciation:
      • Sports Facilities: Football pitches, rugby pitches, cricket squares, and tennis courts.
      • Playgrounds: Dedicated play areas for children.
      • Walking and Jogging: Paths around the park perimeter and through the grounds.
      • Pond: A pond attracting waterfowl.
      • Panoramic City Views: Excellent views of Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, and the city skyline.
      • Informal Recreation: Open grassy areas for games, picnics, and kite flying.
      • Family-Friendly: Wide range of activities and facilities for all ages.
    • Address: Arboretum Rd, Edinburgh EH3 5PL, United Kingdom
    • Website: Inverleith Park on Edinburgh Council Website


 

6. Water of Leith Walkway

    • Description: A scenic urban walkway following the River Leith through Edinburgh. Offers a linear nature experience connecting various parts of the city. Ideal for walkers and cyclists seeking a longer, riverside route.
    • Activities & Nature Appreciation:
        • Walking and Cycling: A well-maintained path for walking and cycling along the river.
        • Riverside Scenery: Enjoy the natural beauty of the Water of Leith, passing through woodlands and urban areas.
        • Wildlife Spotting: Look for birds, fish, and other river wildlife.
        • Dean Village: Pass through the picturesque historic Dean Village.
        • Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art: The path passes near the Modern Art galleries.
        • Tranquil Escape: Offers a peaceful green corridor away from city traffic.
        • Family-Friendly: Relatively flat and easy path, suitable for families with bikes and strollers (sections may have stairs).
    • Starting Point (Example): Near the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art or Stockbridge. The walkway is linear and can be joined at various points.
    • Website: Water of Leith Conservation Trust Website

Tips for Your Self-Guided Tour through Edinburgh's Parks:

  • Check Opening Times: Verify opening hours and any entry fees (some gardens or glasshouses might have fees) for specific locations, especially the Royal Botanic Garden.
  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking!
  • Bring Snacks and Water: Especially if you plan longer walks or hikes. Some parks have cafes, but it's good to be prepared.
  • Check Weather Forecast: Edinburgh weather can change quickly, so dress accordingly and be prepared for rain or sunshine.
  • Use Maps: Download offline maps or use a map app on your phone to navigate the parks and walkways.
  • Family Considerations: Consider the ages and fitness levels of your group when choosing routes and activities. Playgrounds are available in some parks for younger children.
  • Respect Nature: Stay on marked paths, take your litter home, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Enjoy your exploration of Edinburgh's beautiful parks and recreation areas! Let me know if you have any other questions.