The best green spaces in Edinburgh

The buzz of the big city can be exciting and exhilarating, but its fast pace, bustling streets and busy atmosphere can quickly lead to burnout. While Edinburgh is famed for its captivating history, cultural charm, world class festival and striking architecture, the capital’s sprawling green spaces deserve special recognition.

A city that gracefully balances urban vibrancy with lush, expansive green spaces, Edinburgh is an ideal place to live for lovers of the outdoors as well as city life. The capital’s sprawling green spaces are a testament to the city’s close connection to nature. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike, a spot to relax with friends, or a place rich in wildlife and history, Edinburgh’s parks offer something for everyone.

From the extensive green sprawl of the Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve to the horticultural haven of the Royal Botanic Garden, Auld Reekie has plenty of places to enjoy vast open areas, rich biodiversity, and stunning vistas. Here’s some of our favourites...

Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat

Holyrood Park covers a massive 650 acres, making it one of the biggest and most iconic green spaces in Edinburgh. At its centre is Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that gives you amazing views of the city and the countryside. Whether you're into hiking, cycling, or just enjoying a good picnic, this park is a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike.

The park’s landscape is super diverse, with rolling hills, rocky cliffs, peaceful lochs, and wide-open grassy areas. Besides Arthur’s Seat, you’ll find Salisbury Crags, a series of cliffs that are great for both easy walks and more intense climbs. There’s also Duddingston Loch, a quiet spot that's perfect for birdwatching.

But Holyrood Park isn’t just about nature - it’s also packed with history. The ruins of St. Anthony’s Chapel and the nearby Holyrood Abbey give the area a cool medieval vibe, adding to its charm.

Whether you’re into long hikes, cycling, birdwatching, or catching the sunrise from Arthur’s Seat, there’s plenty to do. It’s the perfect spot for adventurers, history lovers, and anyone wanting to experience a bit of wild nature right in the city.

On your doorstep if you live in Duddingston, Meadowbank, Prestonfield, Abbeyhill and Northfield.

Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve

Just south of the city centre, the Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve is a beautiful spot with everything from woodlands and riverbanks to rolling hills and meadows, all offering great views of the city.

Spread out over 140 acres, the reserve has some standout features like the Hermitage of Braid, a lovely, wooded valley along the Braid Burn, and Blackford Hill, one of the city’s highest points with incredible views of Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat, and the Pentland Hills.

The area is a haven for wildlife, with plenty of bird species like woodpeckers and owls, plus mammals like foxes and badgers. Nature lovers will also enjoy the wildflowers, ferns, and ancient trees scattered throughout the reserve.

It’s a great location for all kinds of outdoor activities in Edinburgh including hiking, birdwatching, or just peaceful walks with your dog. The reserve is also home to the Royal Observatory, adding a cool scientific twist to the natural beauty. It’s the perfect spot for hikers, wildlife fans, and families wanting a quiet escape with stunning views.

On your doorstep if you live in Blackford, Morningside, Greenbank and Liberton.

Corstorphine Hill Local Nature Reserve

Corstorphine Hill Local Nature Reserve is one of Edinburgh’s hidden gems, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning views and a rich natural environment. Located to the west of the city, this hill rises to around 531 feet (162 meters) and is a prominent green space amidst the urban landscape. The reserve covers a significant area of woodlands, grassy meadows, and rocky outcrops, providing a diverse habitat for wildlife and a tranquil space for visitors to explore.

One of the main attractions of Corstorphine Hill is the panoramic view from its summit, where you can see across Edinburgh to the Pentland Hills, the Firth of Forth, and even as far as the mountains in the Highlands on a clear day. The hill is also home to the Corstorphine Hill Tower, a memorial to Sir Walter Scott, which adds a historical touch to the natural beauty of the area. The network of trails through the wooded areas offers a variety of walking routes, catering to both casual strollers and more experienced hikers.

For residents of Edinburgh, Corstorphine Hill is not only a beautiful green space but also a vital area for outdoor recreation and education. It offers a perfect escape for those looking to unwind in nature without venturing far from the city centre. The reserve's paths, viewpoints, and wildlife make it a treasured part of Edinburgh’s natural landscape.

On your doorstep if you live in Corstorphine, Ravelston, Murrayfield, Clermiston and Blackhall.

Inverleith Park & The Royal Botanic Garden

Inverleith Park, just a bit north of the city centre, is a serene 54-acre spot where you can take in amazing views of Edinburgh’s skyline and the iconic castle. With its wide-open fields, ponds, and sports facilities, it’s the perfect place for just about any outdoor activity you’re in the mood for.

The park’s flat, spacious layout makes it a great place for all kinds of sports. You’ll find tennis courts, football and rugby fields, and even a dedicated play area for kids. There’s also a big pond where swans, ducks, and other birds hang out, so it’s a nice spot for wildlife lovers to kick back and relax.

Right next to the Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Park is ideal if you want to combine a peaceful park stroll with a visit to see some rare and exotic plants in the gardens next door. With over 70 acres of plant life, it’s a great two-for-one outing.

The park also plays host to a bunch of community events throughout the year, like farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts, and charity runs. And when winter rolls around and the city gets snow, it’s a local favourite for sledging. Whether you’re a family, a sports lover, or just looking for a laid-back day out, Inverleith Park is a great spot to unwind.

On your doorstep if you live in Stockbridge, Warriston, Trinity, Crewe and Comely Bank.

Honourable mentions...

While less sprawling, there are many more wonderful green spaces in Edinburgh to visit. Whether enjoying a picnic in the Meadows and Brunstfield Links, lazing on lovely Leith Links or venturing to the picturesque Pentland Hills, the capital offers escapism from the hustle and bustle of daily life any time you need it!

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