Finding green space in Edinburgh (part one)

Written by Helen Fowler

Central Edinburgh is packed with historic buildings, ranging from mediaeval through Georgian to modern. But the city has more green space than you might expect in a place so full of architecture.

One of the best places for running or kicking a ball around is the Meadows. A huge park, it stretches across the city's Southside, from Tollcross on one side to Causewayside on the other. 

Playgrounds

A state-of-the-art playground at the Causewayside end of the Meadows draws parents from all over Edinburgh. The old Edinburgh Royal Infirmary (now turned into flats) and Edinburgh University buildings border the park to the north. To the south is the residential area of Marchmont.

The Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh (RBGE) in Inverleith is another popular outdoors venue. The rare plants, waterfalls, glass houses and exhibitions make the experience one to remember. But remember; this is a scientific garden, not an ordinary park.

No picking flowers

Certain (not unreasonable) restrictions apply. RBGE wardens will descend from nowhere to tell you off if you make the mistake of playing with a ball, trying to sneak your dog in or running. If you have toddlers, you will have to stop them from picking flowers.

(Literally) just over the road from the RBGE is Inverleith Park. it cannot compete with the beauty and learning of the RBGE but dogs and people run free there. It has fabulous views from its tree-lined paths of the Edinburgh skyline. A good place to watch the city's many fireworks concerts with a blanket and bottle of wine. 

Part Two of Finding Green Space in Edinburgh follows next week, when we discover more about the hidden history of Princes Street Gardens.