Top Tips for a Day Out in Edinburgh

Now that we have had some warm and sunny days here in Edinburgh, we would like to share our top tips on how to spend a relaxing day outdoors whilst staying at our apartments in Edinburgh. In this blog you will find out more about:

• Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
• Water of Leith & Dean Village
• Starbank Park Newhaven

Day Out at Royal Botanic Garden & Picnic at Inverleith Park

The Royal Botanic Garden celebrates 350 years since it first opened its doors. On a total area of 70 acres you will discover a diverse range of plant and tree collections, enjoy a stunning view of Edinburgh’s skyline and you might even spot a squirrel, or two, who also inhabit this peaceful oasis.  You can continue across to the Inverleith Park, located next to the Garden’s West Gate, and stop for a picnic by another great view of the iconic Edinburgh skyline just above the Inverleith Pond. On the way back to the city centre, wander around the streets of Stockbridge and discover shops, cafes and charity shops typical for this part of town. Finally, if you happen to be in Stockbridge on a Sunday, pay a visit to the Stockbridge Market!

Walk along the Water of Leith & Dean Village

Another beautiful area to discover is the walkway along the Water of Leith. Just a few minutes away from the city centre, you can join the walkway and enjoy the gems as you follow along. You will come across St Bernard’s Well hidden in an iconic structure dating back over 200 years and dominated by a statute of the Greek Goddess of Health, Hygeia. Back in the day when the well was first discovered, the locals believed the spring water to have healing affects. Moving further away from the city centre, you will pass under the impressive Dean Bridge and in no time, you will reach the Dean Village – a picturesque area that will take you back in time.

Starbank Park & Traditional Seafood in Newhaven

If you feel like venturing a little further out, this beautiful park is in Newhaven, around 2.5 miles from the city centre. The Starbank Park has been restored into its current state by a community-led action group, the Friends of Starbank Park and they have turned it into a favourite spot for local residents. The park has an eye-catching garden full of flowers, plants and even cherry blossom trees. With its unbeatable location, almost at the water-front, it boasts amazing views over the Firth of Forth. To make it a perfect place for a family visit, there is a children’s nature trail and a little library to entertain the little ones. The park is only a couple of minutes’ walk from the Newhaven harbour – you can enjoy the atmosphere of an old fishing harbour and grab a bite to eat.

Before your visit, have a quick look online and check if the places you plan to visit require you to book a ticket, or reserve a table, in advance. This way you will be ready to enjoy what the city has got to offer!