Experience the greenery, (occasional) sun and crisp Scottish breeze when you visit the lovingly tended gardens and parks in Edinburgh. From leisurely walks and afternoon picnics to capturing the perfect views, connecting with nature is an integral part of the Edinburgh experience.
Get outside and discover your new favourite green space in the Big Bus guide to gardens and parks in Edinburgh’s city centre and surrounding areas.
4 Must-Visit Edinburgh Parks & Gardens
Take a break in four of Edinburgh’s most charming natural spots, gardens and parks. These are perfect places to relax, play and enjoy various activities for all ages.
Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park
Address: Queens Drive
Notable facilities: Toilets, bicycle stands, car parking and displays on history
One of the most famous green spaces in Edinburgh is undoubtedly Arthur’s Seat. It was given a boost in global popular culture attention when it featured in the Netflix adaptation of One Day.
Arthur’s Seat is a wonderful place to watch the sunrise and sunset over the Edinburgh skyline. One of the best things about this park is its 360-degree views of the capital and the Lothians. This extinct volcano rises 279m, with a brisk 3-mile (4.75km) walk taking around 2 to 2.5 hours to reach the summit.
Other highlights at Holyrood Park worth a visit are:
- Bird watching at Duddingston Loch
- A 15th-century medieval ruin, Anthony’s Chapel
- Trails for mountain bikes
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Address: The garden has entrances on Arboretum Place and Inverleith Row
Notable facilities: Toilets, cafe, seating, gift shop
The history of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh dates back to the 17th century. Nicknamed ‘The Bontanics’ by locals, it is a free admission park set north of the city centre. The 70-acre botanical space offers exceptional city views alongside world-class horticultural displays.
Visitors can explore the impressive Rock Garden, peaceful woodland trails, specialised Alpine Houses, and a serene pond area. The extensive Arboretum, Chinese Hillside, Rhododendron Collection, and native Heath Garden present unique plant communities and design approaches.
The facility also operates as an internationally recognised centre for plant research and conservation. Botanical buffs can take short courses in a fascinating range of disciplines such as wilderness first aid, wildflower identification and garden photography.
Other elements of The Bontanics to explore include:
- Baby and toddler groups and holiday clubs
- Guided park tours
- Exotic plant collections
Princes Street Gardens
Address: Princes Street (multiple entrances)
Notable facilities: Toilets, play park, cafe, kiosks and seating
Located in the middle of Edinburgh, Princes Street Gardens is the city’s most central green escape. The park is an expansive green buffer between Old and New Town. Split into East and West sections on either side of The Mound, these Victorian gardens are perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll.
The park is a haven for parents with little ones. Its modern play park section features the classics like slides and swings. Recently renovated, it also has contemporary climbing frames and puzzles that’ll keep the kids entertained for hours.
During festival season, the gardens host outdoor performances and events that capture the city’s creative spirit. The space is home to several monuments and memorials, including the famous Scott Monument, a Gothic tower dedicated to Sir Walter Scott.
Look for these highlights:
- Outdoor concerts
- Floral clock display that changes seasonally
- Christmas market and winter ice rink
Saughton Park & Gardens
Address: Balgreen Road
Notable facilities: Toilets, walled garden, one of Europe’s biggest skate parks, cafe
and pitch and putt
Saughton Park offers something for everyone, from energetic children to worn-out parents. The beautifully restored Victorian walled garden is the star attraction, featuring seasonal displays. The formal rose garden and herbaceous borders are particularly stunning in summer.
For the more active visitors, there’s a popular skate park that draws local teens and kids, as well as a pitch and putt course. The expansive parkland is fantastic for dog walking, jogging, or simply sprawling out with a good book on sunny days.
Other highlights include:
- Football fields
- Adventure playground
- Regular outdoor fitness classes and yoga sessions
Honourable park mentions with special features: Inverleith Park & Playground (duck pond and table tennis), The Meadows (festival hub with cherry blossoms) and Calton Hill (art collective and historic monuments).
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Have an adventure in the finest gardens & parks in Edinburgh, Scotland. Buy your transfer from Edinburgh Airport to the city centre on our Airport Express at £5 for a single and £7 return.