In the heart of the city
In June we welcomed a work experience student, Lily to join our marketing team. Lily was tasked with coming up with a blog to feature on our website and in our social posts. She chose to reveal some of the hidden gems and green spaces in our city, the perfect balance to our busy, vibrant summer here in Edinburgh. Thanks to Lily for the research and work that she has put into this piece. We hope you enjoy the read and take a minute to find a peaceful spot in our verdant city.
In summer, with the many Edinburgh Festivals and increase in footfall to our beautiful city, it can be nice to find a quiet space to sit down, take in your surroundings, gather your thoughts and have a wee rest! For locals alike, many who work in the centre, a stroll in the outdoors can do wonders for a break at lunchtime.
We’ve put together our hidden gems for you to go out and explore; many locals may not even know about these stunning locations in the heart of Edinburgh.
Just off the Royal Mile are three gorgeous green spaces, ready for you to enjoy.
Chessels Court
Tucked away in the Canongate stretch of The Royal Mile, through an ordinary looking archway, you will find a lovely courtyard belonging to the houses there. If you do not have a keen eye, you may miss a little gem in here – a picture-perfect ivy heart on a wall outside one of the houses. The houses themselves and the well-kept courtyard also offer a pretty and tranquil spot to take photos and take a break from the crowds.
Dunbars Close Garden
This little garden is maintained by The Mushroom Trust who owned it prior to 1978, and then gifted it to the City Council. Walking into it feels like stepping back in time into a 17th century garden, with neat parterres, old trees and benches to relax on – a lovely place to stop and take a breath.
The Physic Garden
Just off the Holyrood end of The Royal Mile, a Physic Garden sits outside the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This historic site prompted the establishment of the Royal Botanic Gardens, which are now located in the Inverleith area of the city. The plants and herbs grown here today are also what would have been grown in the 17th century and the garden still has some of the original features of the historic garden, such as the sundial.