
Explore Edinburgh's most iconic public gardens with playgrounds, open spaces, and stunning views perfect for families.
Free entry
Venue Type
Outdoor
Typical visit duration
All day
Booking
Walk-in
Recommended ages
2 years – 10 years
Within 10 minutes walk
Free entry
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Updated 27 February 2026Join KiddyCompass™ Family to unlock 10 insight categories and age suitability data.
Become a Family MemberThere 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Free entry
This venue was last updated on 15 February 2026
