This is our mini guide to secret gardens in Edinburgh. The city is full of green space, but these lesser-known gardens and parks are personal favourites and feel like real hidden gems.
They’re perfect for a walk, a picnic, or some time out from the city without going too far.
1 Saughton Park, Balgreen
Formal gardens, wildflower meadows, a brilliant park café and plenty of space to wander, head to Saughton Park for a little bit of everything. It’s one of Edinburgh’s most underrated green spaces and next to one of the city’s busiest skate parks (our kids tell us that it’s awesome!).
There is lots of space, manicured gardens and little corners, and access to Water of Leith Walkway. We recommend adding a visit to your summer plans.
2 Dr Neil’s Garden, by Duddingston Village
This place features a lot on noted., and all for good reasons. Tucked between Duddingston Village and the loch, at the foot of Arthur’s Seat, Dr Neil’s Garden is a peaceful patchwork of colourful plants, mature trees and perfectly placed benches. Created by two local doctors and cared for by volunteers, the devil’s in the detail.
We reckon it’s one of Edinburgh’s most restorative spots (and so do the family of pheasants who seem quite at home there) and this little garden has a remarkable way of filling your cup right back up. So many people still haven’t discovered it but it is too good not to share.
3 Starbank Park, Newhaven
In Newhaven, Starbank Park comes with plenty of rewards to those in the know. Away from the busier paths, you’ll find views across the Firth of Forth, benches under the shade of beautiful old trees and a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere.
Part garden, part viewpoint and part sanctuary, it’s easy to lose track of time here, especially if you find a good book from the super cute community-run free library .
4 Amisfield Walled Garden, Haddington
We’ve passed the sign for this special place dozens of times and eventually made it there in spring, and boy was it worth it. One of Scotland’s largest walled gardens, and well worth the short drive from Edinburgh; it’s run almost entirely by volunteers.
The scale of the place is what surprises most people. With orchard walks, a maze, benches and beautifully cared-for flower beds, you can wander for far longer than you’d expect. Free to visit and open Wednesday to Sunday.
5 Lauriston Castle Gardens, Silverknowes
Home to a stunning and tranquil Japanese Garden, Lauriston Castle Gardens feels like several gardens rolled into one. Take a wander through colourful blooms, discover hidden sculptures and ponds, then be greeted by sweeping views across the Firth of Forth.
There’s plenty of space to spread out, so pack a picnic or enjoy an indulgent treat at the castle cafe run by Edinburgh baking gurus, Mimis Little Bakehouse.
Would rather feel sand under your feet? Then check out our post ‘7 Beach Walks near Edinburgh Locals’ Love’ for some beachy inspiration
