Edinburgh's Parks & Gardens

Edinburgh's Parks & Gardens

Edinburgh is not only famous for its stunning architecture and buildings of historical importance, most notably Edinburgh Castle, but hidden away within the walls of this fantastic city are some of the country's best kept parks and gardens.

Many within walking distance of the city centre, whisk yourself away to a tranquil and magical space, exploring nature at its finest in some of Scotland's best kept parks and gardens.

Royal Botanic Garden

Described as being one of the finest Gardens in the world, this City Centre haven was founded in 1670 and is home to some of the world's most beautiful and unusual plants.

Within its 72 acres, the Royal Botanic Garden offers visitors the chance to enjoy the country's tallest palm house, marvel at the fantastic glasshouses or enjoy the idyllic peace and quiet of the Chinese hillside.

Why not experience one of our scheduled events or even a guided tour, and then enjoy a coffee in our terrace cafe before picking up a souvenir from the gift shop.

The garden is open all year round and admission is free for all.

Dalkeith Country Park

Fun for all the family at Dalkeith Country Estate, with an adventure playground for the kids, boasting rope swings and zip slides, to cycle tracks and riverside trails and walks for the whole family to enjoy.

If you fancy something a little less energetic, then take stroll through the 500 acres of picturesque woodland and relax with a picnic, taking in the fresh air and beautiful surroundings.

Also found within the estate are Lambs, Piglets, Horses and Highland Cows of course.

Open daily from 10am to 5pm, with admission starting from £4.

Craigmillar Castle

Explore one of Scotland's most perfectly preserved castles. Retaining its medieval character, Craigmillar Castle is an exciting and historic lesson into Edinburgh's past.

From its beginnings in the 15th Century, Craigmillar Castle played its part in the story of Mary Queen of Scots and the plot to murder her husband, Lord Darnley.

These days the castle is less involved with murders and is now used to host weddings, accommodating up to sixty guests.

Beecraigs Country Park

Just outside Edinburgh, in the hills above Bathgate Beecraigs Country Park offers a wide range of activities from archery, fly fishing, and orienteering to the adventure playground.

Sporting one of Scotland's largest Deer farms, children will love getting up close to these magnificent animals. Also within the estate is a caravan and camping park, restaurant and visitor centre.

With so much to see and do, Beecraigs is a fantastic adventure for the whole family.

Admission is free and the park is open all year round.