Edinburgh outdoors

Do you love outdoor adventures?

Then Edinburgh and its surroundings are the right place for you. Take advantage of the many parks, gardens, outdoor activities, and beaches.

Our team is an outdoorsy group, we love planning what to do in Scotland and exploring what Edinburgh has to offer and we are so glad there are many options to choose from.

Below we have made a list of some places we loved exploring.

1. Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat

Located only a short walk from the Royal Mile and adjacent to Holyrood Palace, Holyrood Park is the perfect place for a relaxing stroll or an easy hike.

Hiking Arthur's Seat is probably one of the most popular activities for local families and tourists. Once a volcano, this piece of beautiful rock will reward you with one of the best views of Edinburgh.

With its many lochs, natural fauna, and stunning views of the capital, Holyrood Park is a must-visit.

Little secret: If you drive up Queen's drive you will find the beautiful Dunsapie Loch. Not too far from there, you can walk with your kids to Meadowfield Park, where they can have fun in a lovely and quiet Play Area!

2. The Meadows

Another locals' favourite and a beautiful park with lush grass.

The tree-lined walks cutting across the Meadows make the walk around the part romantic and magical and its wide spaces are ideal for a picnic or a stroll.

Around the park, there are many cafés and stalls that sell delicious drinks and food.

Springtime walks along The Meadows are great, with its pink cherry blossom framing the paths and great views of Arthur’s Seat.

You can play tennis (if you book online) or have your kids have fun in the play area.

3. The Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill

Another great outdoor space for nature lovers that will be rewarded with superb views over Edinburgh.

You are guaranteed to have a delightful walk that combines an ascent of Blackford Hill and the woodland reserve of the Hermitage of Braid.

It features a lovely stream, the Braid Burn, flowing through the woodland and the Blackford Pond This green jewel has many paths with beautiful flora and fauna.

It also features the Royal Observatory and the University's Department of Astronomy.

4. The Royal Botanical Gardens, Edinburgh

This is easily the most beautiful place to visit if you love a stroll and immerse yourself in a beautiful garden.

From pretty water features, tropical palm, a magical Chinese Garden, and walk through the 100 years old Herbaceous Border.

There are many events and exhibitions, making every visit unique. You can also enjoy tasty treats from the excellent café and restaurant facilities.

5. Inverleith Park

To the North of the city is Inverleith Park, a perfect spot for a gentle stroll and an opportunity to admire the cityscape. 

Popular with dog walkers and those with young children, it has a play park and boating pond which sees boating enthusiasts steer their remote-controlled vessels through the water.

Across the road from Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Gardens is Inverleith Park.

With some of the best views of the city of Edinburgh, bring a picnic and take it all in.

If you’re feeling a little more active after your lunch then the park covers a large amount of space offering football goals, rugby posts, tennis courts, and cricket greens.

Or for a more relaxing pursuit take some bird food to feed the ducks and swans at the park’s lovely pond.

6. Portobello Beach

A stroll along Portobello Beach is the perfect activity for adults and kids.

It is definitely our favourite escape from the busy city centre with beautiful views of the horizon and the sunset.

Sunny days can be a bit busy but great for a fun day at the beach and a swim if you a brave enough!

There are charming cafés, new restaurants, traditional amusements, and plenty of space to relax in.

7. The Pentland Hills

Just south of Edinburgh overlooking the city, The Pentland Hills are easy to reach by car and public transport (you can also cycle there with mountain bikes).

Its rolling and breeze tops are easily visible from the city and offer over 100km of signposted paths.

These paths will guide you through the heathery valleys and beautiful lochs.

If you don't want to walk while exploring this area, you can use the many cycle and pony trails of this stunning outdoor sanctuary.

8. Dalkeith Country Park

A stone's throw away from our Riverside property Dalkeith Country Park offers the best combination of outdoor activities, historical attractions, and relaxation for adults and children.

It is a beautiful wooded area where you can spend an afternoon having lunch, shopping, walking in the forest, or visiting some of the sites.

You can explore this beautiful park on foot with the waymarked walking routes or cycle.

You can stroll around the area or go for a two-hour hike. Enjoy a countryside picnic or see the wonderful wildlife.

You may come across roe deer, otters, buzzards, foxes, badgers, hares, and rabbits as you explore the wider park.