10 Great Outdoor Spots To Visit In Edinburgh This Summer
...and all of them are free!
Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh
Founded in 1670 as a physic garden to grow medicinal plants, the Royal Botanic Garden is now home to more than 13,500 plant species from across the world! Spanning over 70 acres, the gardens offer plenty to explore, so take a moment to relax at one of the on-site cafés (or even the bar!) before continuing to enjoy the garden's splendour.
Portobello Beach
Known as Edinburgh's urban seaside escape, Portobello Beach is just a short hop, skip and jump from the city centre. With miles of soft sand, it's the perfect spot to spend a sunny afternoon taking a dip in the sea, strolling along the promenade, trying your luck at the arcade, or enjoying a bite to eat at the Beach House Café.
South Queensferry
South Queensferry is home to the famous UNESCO-designated Forth Bridge. Here, you can take to the water and experience the beauty of the surrounding area and its wildlife on a boat tour and afterwards wander the brightly coloured shops that line the cobbled streets - perhaps stopping for a well-earned ice cream!
Dr Neil's Garden
Dr Neil's Garden is a peaceful, hidden gem nestled in the heart of Edinburgh! Created in 1963 by married duo Drs Nancy and Andrew Neil, this special place was designed to be a tranquil setting near the Loch, even encouraging their own patients to assist with gardening to benefit from a healthier lifestyle. Visitors can unwind among trees and shrubs from around the world and enjoy year-round exhibitions at the Thompson Tower featuring local artists and photographers.
Edinburgh - Kyoto Friendship Garden
Located in Lauriston Castle, which is well known to locals, the Japanese garden sadly appears in very few guidebooks and is lesser known to tourists, but is well worth a visit! With bamboo shelters for picnincs, breathtaking views over Cramond Island to the Firth of Forth, avenues of blossom trees, and calming water features, it's no surprise that it is rated one of the best Japanese gardens in Britain.
Prince's Street Gardens
Did you know that Prince's Street Gardens was created by draining Edinburgh's historic Nor Loch? The Nor Loch was used as a natural medieval defence for Edinburgh Castle. Today, it is a beautiful garden filled with regularly tended flowers, monuments and benches for all the sit and take a breather. Take a picture by the dazzling Ross Fountain overlooking the castle, the park's most iconic monument.
Cramond Beach
Nestled on the outskirts of Edinburgh, this beautiful beach is perfect for those looking to escape the bustle of the city. Take in stunning views across the Forth, and if you fancy an adventure, follow the causeway to the nearby Cramond Island - just be sure to make your way back before the tide comes in!
The Meadows
You simply can't visit Edinburgh without taking a walk through The Meadows! This open span green space is perfect for a picnic, a coffee in the sunshine, a trip to the play park, or even a game of tennis. Surrounded by locals relaxing and enjoying themselves, it's impossible not to feel the city's charm here.
Arthur's Seat
The city of Edinburgh surrounds this ancient volcano, which dominates the cityscape. There's no need to leave the city from good day's hiking; Arthur's Seat will certainly make you get your sweat on! Your award? Incredible views of the city and beyond from its summit.
The Water of Leith
The Water of Leith is Edinburgh's main river, flowing 13 miles from Balerno to Leith. Popular with locals, this peaceful riverside walk passes through Instagrammable spots like Stockbridge and Dean Village, where stunning historic architecture, cafés, and eateries make for the perfect stop along the way.