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Discover Princes Street Gardens
Princes Street Gardens is a public park in the centre of Edinburgh, Scotland, in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. The Gardens were created in the 1820s following the long draining of the Nor Loch and building of the New Town. It is not only a great place for locals to relax but also the best spot to admire Edinburgh's city skyline.
Visit Tips
- The park is accessible year-round and admission is free.
- Great place for a picnic or a relaxing walk on the lush lawns.
- Provides excellent views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town skyline.
Highlights
- Ross Fountain
- Floral Clock
- Scottish National Gallery
- Scott Monument
About Princes Street Gardens
Basic Information
Official Name
Princes Street Gardens
Attraction Type
Garden
Google Rating
4.7 (26,933)
Phone
+441315297921
Plus Code
XR22+9H Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Address
Princes St., Edinburgh EH2 2HG, United Kingdom
Visiting Hours
Site Access
Open year-round (7:00 AM to dusk, varies by season)
Best Time to Visit
Spring: Flowers and cherry blossoms blooming
Summer: Sunny days, great for picnics and outdoor activities
Best Time to Visit
Autumn: Beautiful foliage and vibrant colors
Winter: Festive atmosphere with the Edinburgh Christmas Market
Opening hours may vary due to seasons and special events. Please check the Edinburgh City Council website for the latest updates.
Admission Information
Site Visit
Free admission
Parking
No on-site parking (Paid parking in city centre)
Guided Tours
Self-guided
How to Get Here
From Edinburgh Waverley
Located right next to Edinburgh Waverley railway station, just a 1-minute walk.
From Airport
Take the Airlink 100 bus or Edinburgh Trams and alight at Princes Street stop.
From Bus Station
About a 5-10 minute walk from Edinburgh Bus Station.
Public Transport
Well connected by Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams with stops right on Princes Street.
Walking
Centrally located and easily accessible on foot from the Royal Mile, New Town, and other areas.
Driving
Parking in the city centre is very limited and expensive. Public transport or walking is highly recommended.
About Princes Street Gardens
Historical Background
Princes Street Gardens was created in the 1820s, replacing the Nor Loch. The loch was once a natural defense on the north side of Edinburgh Castle, which later became an open sewer as the city grew. During the construction of the New Town, the loch was drained and transformed into this beautiful garden that now separates the Old and New Towns.
Geography & Layout
The park is divided into two parts by an artificial hill known as The Mound. The larger West Princes Street Gardens is home to the famous Ross Fountain and the Ross Bandstand, while the smaller East Princes Street Gardens features the magnificent Scott Monument and the world's oldest Floral Clock.
Cultural Significance
As the 'green lung' of Edinburgh's city centre, it's not just a favorite spot for relaxing picnics, but also a hub for major public events. Every winter, it hosts the spectacular Edinburgh Christmas Market, and during the summer, it frequently serves as a venue for open-air concerts.
Ecology & Flora
The gardens feature a rich variety of native and exotic plant species, offering distinct landscapes throughout the seasons. From blooming cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant foliage in autumn, it is a haven for plant enthusiasts and an important habitat for urban birds and small wildlife.
Recommended Route
Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy classic landmarks.
Start at the Scott Monument in East Princes Street Gardens
Admire the exquisite Floral Clock, the oldest of its kind in the world
Walk past the Scottish National Gallery into West Princes Street Gardens
Visit the magnificent cast-iron Ross Fountain
Look up at the majestic Edinburgh Castle from the lawns
Top Photo Spots
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Ross Fountain
An ornate cast-iron fountain in the west gardens. With Edinburgh Castle in the background, it offers a classic, postcard-perfect shot.
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Floral Clock
The world's oldest floral clock, featuring a different theme of plant arrangements every summer. Perfect for close-up shots.
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Scott Monument
A grand Gothic monument. Shooting upwards from the garden lawns creates a strong visual impact.
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Edinburgh Castle Viewpoint
Looking up at the majestic castle built on an extinct volcano from the lower gardens offers breathtaking views in all seasons.
Photo Gallery
Scenic Views of Princes Street Gardens
Autumn views
Ross Fountain
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Garden bench
Floral Clock
Scott Monument
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Castle view
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Winter snow
Summer lawns
Accommodation Guide
New Town Area
RecommendedLocated north of Princes Street, this area features elegant Georgian architecture and wide, pristine streets. It is home to boutique hotels and shopping districts, perfect for travelers seeking a quiet environment, convenient shopping, and modern amenities.
Old Town Area
RecommendedCentered around the Royal Mile, this area is steeped in medieval history. Staying here allows for an easy walk to Edinburgh Castle and the gardens, making it ideal for those who want a deep dive into the city's historical and cultural heritage.
West End & Haymarket
RecommendedSituated to the west of the gardens, this area boasts excellent transport links (near Haymarket Station). Accommodation options here are diverse, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to premium serviced apartments.
Waverley Station Area
RecommendedRight next to East Princes Street Gardens and the main railway station. If you are carrying a lot of luggage or need to catch an early train, choosing this area will save you the hassle of dragging suitcases over cobbled streets.
Visitor Reviews
Visitor feedback can be viewed via Google Maps.
Absolutely one of the most beautiful spots in Edinburgh. I always take a walk here whenever I visit. Whether admiring the Floral Clock or gazing at the castle, it's incredibly refreshing.
Having a picnic here is just fantastic! The Ross Fountain has been recently restored and looks stunning with the castle as a backdrop. Great for photos.
A perfect urban oasis for relaxation. The Christmas Market here in winter is not to be missed. Although it can get a bit crowded, the festive atmosphere is top-notch.
As a plant enthusiast, I was deeply impressed by the Floral Clock and the well-kept lawns. The sunlight hitting the castle at different times of the day makes the view from the gardens look like a painting.
Great place for a family walk. The lawns are beautifully manicured, it's exceptionally stunning during autumn with the fallen leaves, and incredibly accessible right outside the train station.
Compared to the hustle and bustle of the Royal Mile, this provides a peaceful sanctuary. Sitting on a bench with a coffee while looking at the castle is the best way to experience Edinburgh.