Edinburgh is where nature and urban living sit side by side. From hilltop viewpoints overlooking the city to peaceful ponds set in beautifully kept gardens within the city’s neighbourhoods, green space is never far away. Whether you’re heading out for a morning run, planning a family picnic or meeting for an afternoon date, there’s a spot to suit every occasion. Here’s our rundown of the best parks in and around Edinburgh.
Popular Parks in Edinburgh City Centre
Within walking distance ofEdinburgh, the following parks sit just minutes away from the city centre:
Holyrood Park
An iconic part of Edinburgh’s landscape, Holyrood Parkis just minutes from the city centre. Dominated by Arthur’s Seat, this park provides one of the best views of the city, with sweeping panoramic views of Edinburgh and beyond.
Enjoy the open grasslands with pathways that are perfect for a morning run or a weekend stroll.
Address: Queen’s Drive, Edinburgh, EH8 8HG
Lochend Park
A peaceful neighbourhood park that centres around a picturesque pond, Lochend Park is ideal for relaxing afternoons spent outdoors. The pond attracts a variety of waterfowl, making it a favourite spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers, while the children’s playground and open green space are perfect for families wanting to enjoy pleasant days out in nature.
Address: Lochend Road South, Edinburgh, EH7 6BP
Princes Street Gardens
Nestled near Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens stretches through the heart of the city. In summer, it’s a popular spot where locals and students can relax in the sun, with children able to enjoy its lovely playground. While, in the winter, the park is transformed into a brilliant Christmas Market, with a slew of festive attractions on offer.
Address: Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2HG
Royal Botanic Garden
A tranquil oasis just north of the city centre, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburghboasts beautifully curated landscapes with seasonal plants and exotic glasshouses to explore. It’s a peaceful escape from the city, offering the perfect space for those after undisturbed, leisurely strolls.
Address: Arboretum Place, Edinburgh, EH3 5NZ
Inverleith Park
Located beside the Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Park offers expansive open views of the city’s skyline. With sports pitches, a boating pond, children’s play areas, and plenty of space for picnics, it’s a lively and versatile green space that’s popular with locals all year round.
Address: Arboretum Place, Edinburgh, EH3 5NZ
Calton Hill
Less than a 10-minute walk from St James Quarter, in the city centre, this park is famous for its historic monuments and postcard-perfect views. Its elevated position makes it one of the best parks to watch the sun set over Edinburgh. The park also offers striking views of the Old Town, the Firth of Forth and Arthur’s Seat.
Address: Calton Hill, Edinburgh, EH7 5AA
The Meadows
Located near the largely residential areas of Marchmont and Bruntsfield, The Meadows is a much-loved park known for its wide tree-lined paths, sports pitches and cricket square. It’s a lively hub of community activity, with a children’s playground and ample open space for cycling, running and socialising.
Address: Melville Drive, Edinburgh, EH9 1ND
Parks on the Outskirts of Edinburgh
For those who want to venture a little further out, the surrounding countryside offers a wider range of parks and green spaces to explore.
Figgate Park
Located near the coast in Portobello, east of the city centre, Figgate Parkoffers a scenic pond, open green lawns and peaceful walking routes. It’s a quieter alternative to the city’s central parks, ideal for relaxed weekend strolls.
Address: Mountcastle Drive South, Edinburgh, EH15 1HB
Seven Hills Viewpoint
For those seeking a more adventurous outing, the Seven Hills route brings together some of Edinburgh’s most striking natural landmarks across approximately 17 miles of walking trails. Though several of these hills sit within the city itself, completing the full route offers a more immersive way to experience Edinburgh’s varied landscape.
The Seven Hills include Arthur’s Seat, Castle Rock, Calton Hill, Corstorphine Hill, Braid Hills, Blackford Hill and Craiglockhart Hill. Together, they showcase Edinburgh’s varied landscape from rugged ridges to sweeping panoramic summits, making this challenge ideal for keen walkers and weekend explorers.
Dalkeith Country Park
A half an hour drive southeast of the city centre, Dalkeith Country Parkoffers 1,000 acres of woodland, riverside walks and open parkland. Thought to be one of the best parks in Edinburgh, it’s set within the historic grounds of Dalkeith Palace and makes an ideal spot for longer weekend walks, family cycling routes and relaxed days spent outdoors.
Address: Via Town Gate, Dalkeith EH22 2NA
All on the doorstep of New Eidyn
Residents at our New Eidyn development get to enjoy all of these excellent parks, right on their doorstep, alongside the building’s own stunning Sky Gardens.
As a city defined as much by its landscape as its architecture, Edinburgh’s dramatic hills, historic gardens and expansive parkland make it a beautiful place to call home.