Princes Street Gardens - Image 1

Princes Street Gardens

Edinburgh, United Kingdom•4.7(26.8k)•City Park, Playground•Public Space

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Explore Edinburgh's most iconic public gardens with playgrounds, open spaces, and stunning views perfect for families.

Princes Street Gardens is one of Edinburgh's most beloved urban parks, offering families a fantastic free destination right in the heart of the city. The gardens feature dedicated playground areas where children can play and burn off energy, alongside beautifully maintained green spaces ideal for picnics, relaxation, and outdoor exploration. | The venue is particularly appealing for families due to its dog-friendly policy, allowing pet owners to bring their furry companions along. The gardens are also pushchair-friendly, making them accessible for families with young children. Visitors can enjoy open lawns, scenic pathways, and the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh's historic architecture. | Princes Street Gardens caters to families of all ages, from toddlers enjoying the playgrounds to older children exploring the expansive park grounds. The combination of free entry, outdoor activities, and family-friendly amenities makes it an excellent choice for a day out without breaking the budget. Whether visiting for a leisurely stroll, a play session, or a family picnic, the gardens offer a welcoming and accessible green space in the city centre.

Prices

Free entry

Opening Hours

MondayOpen 24 hours
TuesdayOpen 24 hours
WednesdayOpen 24 hours
ThursdayOpen 24 hours
FridayOpen 24 hours
SaturdayOpen 24 hours
SundayOpen 24 hours

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

2 years – 10 years

Perfect for

#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 498 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(26.8k reviews)
S
Sanjay Gupta

Sanjay Gupta

3 weeks ago

There are plenty of awesome Edinburgh Castle viewpoints for you to choose from within the city. Whichever one you visit will offer spectacular views, but the views from Princes Street Gardens truly are something special. The Gardens are made up of two adjacent parks which have been around since the 1820s. They sit in the shadows of Edinburgh Castle so as you can imagine, the views are very impressive! These gardens are found next to Edinburgh Train Station and the Scott Monument. They’re free to enter, but just keep in mind that it does get really busy here! It lies in the valley between Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, at the heart of the Scottish capital’s World Heritage Site. well, it was not always beautiful- Princes Street Gardens was created by draining Edinburgh’s largest loch, the Nor Loch. there are many statues, monuments, landmarks in and around this iconic garden * Pictish Symbol Stone- The stone, now in the National Museum of Scotland * Monuments and statues- in a garden full of monuments and statues the Scott Monument, built in 1844 to commemorate the writer Sir Walter Scott, is the largest and most striking. * Ross Fountain: On the west side of the gardens is the Ross Fountain * St John’s Scottish Episcopal Church * Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial: A tribute to the famous author, this memorial prompted a discussion about his adventures and literary works. * Norwegian Stone Memorial: This stone commemorates the enduring friendship between Norway and Scotland, established during World War II. * Ross Band Stand and Royal Scots Memorial: These stops offered a glimpse into the cultural and historical significance of the gardens. Every year at Christmas, part of the Gardens is transformed into the “Winter Wonderland” with a Christmas Market, an ice rink and many other fun attractions, including a Ferris wheel that stands 108 ft (33m) tall, often called The Edinburgh Eye. Today, the gardens are a popular Edinburgh tourist destination, especially beautiful in the spring and summer when the flowers are blooming.

E
Emily Sullivan

Emily Sullivan

a month ago

It is absolutely beautiful and a lovely place to slow down right in the heart of the city. Even in December, the gardens felt green and full of life, and we were surprised to see pink flowers still blooming on some of the trees. Ross Fountain is definitely the highlight. Standing there with Edinburgh Castle rising in the background is one of those classic Edinburgh views that never gets old. As you walk through the gardens, you will also come across several statues and monuments. They are well placed and worth stopping to read about, adding a nice historical layer to the walk.

R
Robert

Robert

a month ago

This is my second visit here, this time at the Christmas market, and the attractions are really cool. There is a large selection of different foods and snacks, and there are also souvenir stands. The only downside is the crowds of people.

1
1000Steps Photography

1000Steps Photography

2 months ago

I’ve fond memories of these gardens over years of having to change trains at Waverley, to taking a break from the hubbub during the Festival, or enjoying some winter wonderland late in the year. They’re just dropped right in the middle of town, separating Old from New, with splendid views and an art gallery in for good measure. Always a good place to start your first trip to Edinburgh to check your bearings and get some quiet.

C
cdakingtamudo

cdakingtamudo

5 months ago

This garden has lovely scenery, under the Edinburgh castle. Come here for an escape from the city. It is well maintained and perfect for walks, and picnics. Lots of benches to sit and relax. There is a very good playground for the kids and a beautiful fountain

Reviews last updated: 15 February 2026

Events at Princes Street Gardens

This venue was last updated on 15 February 2026

Frequently asked questions about Princes Street Gardens

Is Princes Street Gardens free to visit?

Entry to Princes Street Gardens is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is Princes Street Gardens suitable for?

Princes Street Gardens is best for children aged 2 to 10.

Is Princes Street Gardens dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Princes Street Gardens.

Is there parking at Princes Street Gardens?

Princes Street Gardens doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Princes Street Gardens?

Princes Street Gardens doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Princes Street Gardens pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Princes Street Gardens 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 Princes Street Gardens?

Princes Street Gardens is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Princes Street Gardens by public transport?

Princes Street Gardens is well-served by public transport — buses 1, 2, 3, 4, 9 stop nearby, and Princes Street tram stop is about 2 minutes' walk away. For the full list, see the public transport section above.
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