Top Five Summer Picnic Spots In Edinburgh

Make the most of Edinburgh’s outdoor spaces this summer by taking a picnic in one of the city's many greenspaces. Here are our top five places to lay down your blanket and enjoy a bite under the Scottish sun.

1. The Meadows
A vast green space with tree-lined paths and spacious lawns, the Meadows is a favourite place for locals to enjoy the summer sunshine. It’s a great spot for a picnic, and has plenty of space to play games or just relax and spend time watching the world go by. Nearby you will also find the medical history museum, Surgeon’s Hall, and the University of Edinburgh, where scenes from the recent Netflix series 'One Day' were filmed.

2. Princes Street Gardens
Dividing the Old and New Towns and nestled beneath Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens is located in the heart of the city, close to the National Gallery of Scotland and the Scott Monument. Take a seat under the shade of one of the many trees to enjoy your picnic lunch, admiring the beautifully-landscaped flowerbeds and picturesque Ross Fountain. Make sure to snap a picture of the photogenic floral clock.



3. Inverleith Park
Located near to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and next to the charming neighbourhood of Stockbridge, Inverleith Park offers stunning views of the city skyline. With lots of open space, this laid-back park boasts sports fields, a pond, and plenty of shaded benches and spaces to place your blanket and dig in to a delicious picnic. 

4. Calton Hill
Offering one of the best panoramic views of Edinburgh, Calton Hill is a popular option for sunset picnics. Make the most of the long summer evenings and bring your dinner with you to watch the sun set over the city and the Firth of Forth. Take a moment to marvel at the hill's historic monuments such as the Nelson Monument, the National Monument, and the City Observatory.



5. Holyrood Park & Arthur’s Seat
Just a short walk from the Royal Mile and next to the Scottish Parliament and Palace of Holyroodhouse, Holyrood Park offers 640 acres of scenic parkland. Enjoy a peaceful picnic by St Margaret’s Loch, watching swans and ducks glide by. For a more adventurous option, hike up Arthur’s Seat and take in the dramatic city views as you refuel at the summit.


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Oliver Olah
Roman Akash
Colin Meg