Making the most of the great outdoors in Edinburgh

Did you know that Edinburgh has been named the greenest city in the UK?

 

If the weather is looking ‘braw’ it is a great excuse to enjoy Edinburgh’s many parks gardens and walks. A visit to Princes Street Gardens makes for a tranquil retreat from lively Princes Street, Edinburgh’s most popular shopping location. In the gardens you can soak up the sun and enjoy an ice cream while taking a stroll past some interesting monuments and floral displays. It’s also the perfect location to snap some pictures of Edinburgh Castle in all it’s ‘glory’.

 

 

Don’t forget to show us in your best outdoor snaps on Instagram

& Use our hashtag #destinationedinburgh

 

Edinburgh’s locals favor The Meadows as a great spot to go and enjoy the outdoors. Found just the south of the city, close by the National Museum of Scotland and The Elephant House, it’s a popular place to have a picnic or play some ball games. If cycling is what you are after you’ll be pleased to find dedicated cycle paths throughout the Meadows, offering you easy access to all corners of the city. The Meadows is also well suited to families with small children as it features a playpark where they can burn out all their energy.

Don’t mind a bit of a challenge? Arthur’s Seat is a popular spot for keen walkers all throughout the year. When you reach the top you’ll be rewarded with the best possible view of the city. There are five suggested routes in the park, suitable for a range of abilities. Check out some other self-guided walking routes for Arthurs Seat here.

 

If you really want to make the most of your Edinburgh Stay, why not wake up early to watch the sun rise over the city?

 

 

If you are looking for some scenic riverside views The Water of Leith offers a great variety. The Water of Leith is Edinburgh’s the main river which flows through the capital and eventually reaching the port of Leith. You can walk much of the way with the sound of water rushing beside you. Look out for the natural waterfalls and the various historic sites linked with this important Edinburgh river. We recommend you start your walk descending down the cobbled road of the sleepy Dean Village, the wide path showcases key remnants from the days the village housed a busy mill.

 

North Berwick is a beautiful seaside town which offers a delightful alternative to the city centre. You can catch a 20 minute train from Edinburgh Waverley Rail Station and hop off to be greeted by the sound of North Berwick’s various sea birds. The town is a much-loved escape for Edinburgh locals, boosting coastal scenery and classic fish and chips shops. There’s plenty to keep you entertained while you are there, with boat trips around the local islands and the Scottish Seabird Centre.

 

 

And as promised, here is our best kept local secret;

 

If you are looking for something really different (and affordable) why not try a self-guided outdoor scavenger hunt in the city? Edinburgh has several treasure trails which can be easily downloaded and printed off online and suitable for all ages. The recommended time to spend of a trail is 2 hours but you can take as long as you’d like. Following the clues around the city, who knows what you might find? Have a look at some trials available from our friends at Treasure Trail.

 

Don’t forget to stop for a pint to reward yourself! You’ve been busy making the most of the outdoors.

 

 

Happy Adventuring!

The Destination Edinburgh Apartments Team