Name: Princes Street Gardens
Rating: 5.0

Princes Street Gardens

Princes Street Gardens, Princes Street, Edinburgh, UK

1-90 Years

2350
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Description

Princes Street Gardens is the emerald heart of Edinburgh, a massive 37-acre public park that separates the historic Old Town from the 18th-century New Town. Originally the site of the Nor Loch, which was drained in the 1820s, the gardens now offer some of the most iconic views of Edinburgh Castle. It is widely considered one of the best things to do with kids in Edinburgh, providing a vast, open space for children to run while parents soak in the world-class scenery.

One of the highlights for visiting families is that admission is completely free. The park is divided into East and West sections by "The Mound," with the West side featuring the popular children’s play area. Whether you are stopping for a picnic between museum visits or letting the kids burn off energy on the climbing frames, it remains the most accessible and budget-friendly day out in the city centre.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids, Princes Street Gardens combines history with active play. From the world’s first Floral Clock to the intricate sculptures of the Ross Fountain, there is something to capture the imagination of every age group. The park is a primary hub for city events, hosting major celebrations like the Edinburgh Festival Carnival and the famous Winter Wonderland.

Features

Free
Host birthday parties: No

Features

Key Features

Divided Dual Gardens: The park consists of East Princes Street Gardens (home to the Scott Monument) and the larger West Princes Street Gardens.
Castle Backdrop: Offers unparalleled, close-up views of Edinburgh Castle, which sits dramatically on the volcanic rock above the park.
Themed Play Area: A dedicated space in the West Gardens featuring a large wooden castle structure, slides, and climbing nets for juniors and toddlers.

Top 5 Highlights

The Floral Clock: Located at the entrance to the West Gardens, this is the oldest floral clock in the world, featuring thousands of real plants that bloom in intricate patterns.
Ross Fountain: A stunning, gold-coloured cast-iron fountain installed in 1872, featuring sculptures of mermaids and figures representing science and the arts.
Scott Monument: A towering Gothic spire dedicated to Sir Walter Scott; brave visitors can climb its 287 steps for a small fee to see the best views of the city.
Winter Wonderland: Every December, the gardens transform with a massive Ferris wheel (The Edinburgh Eye), an ice rink, and a festive Christmas market.
Gardener’s Cottage: A picturesque 19th-century cottage that adds to the fairytale atmosphere of the lower paths in the West Gardens.

Detailed Inventory

West Gardens Play Park: A themed play area designed with a "castle" motif, including tunnels and climbing ropes.
Ross Bandstand: A historic open-air venue used for concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the summer.
Monuments and Statues: Includes the Royal Scots Greys Monument, the Wojtek the Bear statue, and many more historical tributes.
The Mound: The artificial hill connecting the Old and New Towns, home to the Scottish National Gallery.
Nor Loch Shoreline: Pathways that follow the original banks of the drained loch, perfect for easy walking.
Seasonal Cafe: A small outlet typically open during the warmer months for ice creams and light snacks.
Public Toilets: Located at the Mound (24hr access) and near the Ross Bandstand (summer only); disabled access requires a RADAR key.
Manicured Lawns: Expansive green areas where locals and visitors gather for picnics and sunbathing.
Sheltered Seating: Various benches and covered spots for resting along the tiered pathways.
Accessible Gates: Multiple entry points from Princes Street, though some paths involve steep inclines.

Facilities

Toilets: Toilets at the Mound are open 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM; those at the Ross Bandstand are seasonal (10:00 AM – 8:00 PM).
Food Options: The gardens are the city's top picnic spot. For a sit-down meal, the nearby Brewhemia or Pizza Pilgrims are great family choices in the New Town.
Socks & Shoes: The play area is outdoor and wooden; comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended for children.
Pro-Tip (Timing): Visit at 1:00 PM to hear the "One O'Clock Gun" fire from the castle directly above the gardens—it’s a local tradition that kids love.
Accessibility: The East Gardens are generally flatter. The West Gardens have some steep paths, but the main route near the floral clock is accessible.
Events: Check the 2026 calendar for the Edinburgh Festival Carnival in July, which brings live music and colourful parades to the gardens.

What to see

What Visitors Love

The play park is a huge hit, specifically the large wooden castle which fits the Edinburgh theme perfectly.
The fact that such a beautiful and historic space is completely free is a major plus for families.
The views of the castle are unparalleled and provide a stunning backdrop for family photos.

What Visitors Don't Like

The gardens can get extremely crowded during the Fringe Festival in August and the Christmas market in December.
Some parents find the public toilet opening hours a bit unpredictable and suggest using facilities in nearby department stores.
Some of the paths leading down from Princes Street are quite steep, which can be tiring with a pushchair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Floral Clock always there?: The clock is seasonal; it is typically planted in the spring and remains in bloom through the summer and early autumn.
Can you have a BBQ in the gardens?: No, BBQs are generally prohibited in Edinburgh's historic gardens to protect the lawns and monuments. Picnics are welcome.
Are there baby changing facilities?: Yes, baby changing is available in the accessible toilets near the Ross Bandstand and the Mound (RADAR key required).

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Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Opens daily at 7:00 AM. Closing times vary by season (6:00 PM in winter to 10:00 PM in summer).

Address: Princes Street Gardens, Princes Street, Edinburgh, UK

Post Code: EH2 2HG

Council: City of Edinburgh

County: Greater London

By Car: City centre parking is limited and expensive; use the St James Quarter car park or Park & Ride services.
By Train: Located immediately adjacent to Edinburgh Waverley Station.
By Bus/Tram: Numerous buses stop on Princes Street; the Princes Street Tram Stop is located at the top of the gardens.