Blackford Hill and Pond - Image 1

Blackford Hill and Pond

Edinburgh, United Kingdom•4.7(529)•City Park, Playground•Public Space
Photos by
The Bear and the Fox
The Bear and the Fox

A nature reserve playground where children can play and feed swans and ducks at the pond, with decorative bird-motif gates.

Blackford Pond combines a modest playground with an immersive nature experience within the Hermitage of Braid Nature Reserve. The fenced play area features swings, a climbing net, and noughts & crosses game, but the real draw is the pond itself—home to ducks, swans, and diverse bird species. Children love spotting the decorative bird motifs on the gates and feeding the wildlife (bring your own seed). A covered gazebo provides shelter for picnics. The flat, pushchair-accessible terrain makes this ideal for families with toddlers seeking gentle nature encounters without the hillier terrain found elsewhere in the reserve.

Prices

Free entry

Opening Hours

Monday: 09:00 – 17:00
Tuesday: 09:00 – 17:00
Wednesday: 09:00 – 17:00
Thursday: 09:00 – 17:00
Friday: 09:00 – 17:00
Saturday: 09:00 – 17:00
Sunday: 09:00 – 17:00
+44 131 447 71454 Charterhall Road, EH9 3HE

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

5 years – 10 years

Perfect for

#Birds#WildlifeSpotting

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

What Parents Say

KiddyCompass™ Family

We analysed 15 parent reviews from the past 12 months and distilled the key insights for you.

Updated 27 February 2026

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Google Reviews

4.7(529 reviews)
M
Michelle J

Michelle J

a month ago

Beautiful wildlife pond and nature resort, you will enjoy both the walk and the view

D
DOVETAIL

DOVETAIL

3 months ago

A great place to go and enjoy one of Edinburgh’s amazing green spaces. There are so many things I love about this place especially on the summit, the views are amazing & on a sunny day it’s a great place to stop for a picnic. The variety of birds is also amazing and I have a great fondness for the crows who follow me to the top in the hope of some peanuts. A great place for young and old alike and also one of the Edinburgh hills that tourists should not miss!

S
Steven R

Steven R

3 months ago

A decent hike. The steps are challenging and it is not wheelchair accessible. The view from the top is breathtaking, with high winds. A lovely walk and incredible experience. You can walk to the Hermitage from here, as well.

K
Kamms Sin

Kamms Sin

6 months ago

Nice place to be, lovely to walk around blackford pond, braid hill, nice view from the top of the braid hill looking onto Edinburgh Castle, Arthur seat.

J
John Dakers

John Dakers

6 months ago

Nice wander up past the Royal Observatory, and you get some fabulous views over Edinburgh.

Reviews last updated: 22 January 2026

Events at Blackford Hill and Pond

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 22 January 2026

Frequently asked questions about Blackford Hill and Pond

Is Blackford Hill and Pond free to visit?

Entry to Blackford Hill and Pond is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is Blackford Hill and Pond suitable for?

Blackford Hill and Pond is best for children aged 5 to 10.

Is Blackford Hill and Pond dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Blackford Hill and Pond.

Is there parking at Blackford Hill and Pond?

Blackford Hill and Pond doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Blackford Hill and Pond?

Blackford Hill and Pond doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Blackford Hill and Pond pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Blackford Hill and Pond is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Blackford Hill and Pond?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to Blackford Hill and Pond.

How do I get to Blackford Hill and Pond by public transport?

Blackford Hill and Pond is on bus routes 9, 24, 38.
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