Lochend Park: Tranquil Urban Oasis in Edinburgh
A peaceful urban retreat in Edinburgh featuring a scenic loch, playgrounds, and abundant wildlife for all ages to enjoy.
Lochend Park, located in Edinburgh's EH7 district, is a peaceful green space featuring a scenic loch, playgrounds, walking paths, and abundant wildlife. Ideal for families, solo visitors, and nature lovers, the park offers a calm retreat from the city bustle with picnic spots and opportunities for casual sports and wildlife observation.
A brief summary to Lochend Park
- Lochend Rd S, Edinburgh, EH7 6BP, GB
- +441315293111
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities around the loch.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many seating areas overlooking the water.
- Ideal for families with children thanks to its well-equipped playgrounds and open spaces.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the park’s paths and exploring the community woodland.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple local bus routes serve the Lochend area from Edinburgh city center, with journey times ranging from 15 to 25 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day, making this a convenient and affordable option. Single fares cost around £1.80 to £2.50.
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Tram and Bus Combination
Take the Edinburgh tram to York Place or Newhaven, then transfer to a local bus heading to Lochend Park. Total travel time is approximately 25 to 35 minutes. Tram fares start at £1.80, with bus fares around £1.80.
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Car
Driving to Lochend Park takes about 10 to 15 minutes from Edinburgh city center, depending on traffic. Limited on-street parking is available nearby, and some areas may require payment. Be mindful of local parking restrictions.
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Walking
For those staying in nearby neighborhoods such as Leith or Meadowbank, walking to Lochend Park is feasible within 20 to 40 minutes over mostly flat terrain. Paths are generally well-maintained and accessible.
Lochend Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lochend Park
A Serene Green Space in the Heart of Edinburgh
Lochend Park is a charming urban park nestled in the EH7 area of Edinburgh, offering a tranquil escape amid the city’s vibrancy. At its center lies a picturesque loch, historically significant as a water source for nearby Leith, now transformed into a haven for local wildlife including birds and squirrels. This natural feature provides a calming focal point for visitors seeking relaxation or a quiet stroll.Facilities and Recreational Opportunities
The park caters to a diverse range of visitors with well-maintained walking paths ideal for leisurely walks or jogging. Families appreciate the dedicated playgrounds and picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for children and adults alike. Sports enthusiasts can engage in casual games on open grassy areas or utilize the teenage play zones and goals available. Seating areas and viewing platforms around the pond enhance the visitor experience, allowing moments of rest and wildlife observation.Community and Historical Context
Lochend Park is embedded within a residential neighborhood that balances urban living with green space. Nearby amenities in the Lochend and Leith areas include shopping centers, cinemas, and a variety of dining options, enriching the visitor experience. Historical buildings and community woodlands within the park add layers of cultural and environmental significance, reflecting the area’s heritage and ongoing community engagement.Wildlife and Natural Environment
The park’s loch and surrounding greenery support a thriving ecosystem. Birdwatchers and nature lovers can spot various species, contributing to the park’s reputation as a peaceful wildlife habitat. The natural setting encourages mindfulness and provides a quiet refuge for those seeking a connection with nature within the city.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Open year-round with no closing hours, Lochend Park is easily accessible and welcoming to visitors of all ages and abilities. Its calm atmosphere makes it a favored spot for solo visitors, families, and pet owners. The park’s size allows for a walk-around in under an hour, making it suitable for short visits or longer leisurely afternoons.Integration with Edinburgh’s Urban Fabric
While not as bustling as Edinburgh’s more famous parks, Lochend Park offers a unique blend of tranquility and community spirit. It complements the city’s network of green spaces, providing an alternative to the tourist-heavy areas and fostering local recreation and relaxation. Its proximity to cultural landmarks and transport links ensures it remains an accessible urban gem.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Mary's Bath House
1.2 km
A rare 16th-century Tudor pavilion near Holyrood Palace, steeped in royal mystery and linked to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Queen Victoria Statue
1.3 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Queen Victoria and Leith’s Boer War heroes, standing proudly at the foot of Leith Walk since 1907.
Burns Monument
1.4 km
Edinburgh's classical tribute to Scotland's national poet, a Neo-Greek temple with commanding city views.
Robert Fergusson Statue
1.5 km
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
Dugald Stewart Monument
1.6 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Robert Burns Statue
1.7 km
A striking tribute to Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, set in the historic maritime district of Leith, Edinburgh.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
1.8 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Water of Leith Walkway Finish
1.8 km
Edinburgh’s scenic 13-mile riverside trail ends at Leith’s historic waterfront, blending nature, heritage, and urban charm.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
1.8 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Arthur's Seat
1.8 km
Climb Edinburgh’s ancient volcanic peak for breathtaking panoramic views and a journey through natural and historic wonders.
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
1.9 km
Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
Wellhead at John Knox House
1.9 km
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
The Centre of Edinburgh
1.9 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft Ltd
1.9 km
Explore the mystical realm of the Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft in Edinburgh, where history and enchantment intertwine seamlessly.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
1.9 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
Unmissable attractions to see
Artisan Bar
0.6 km
Explore the Artisan Bar in Edinburgh for a delightful blend of traditional Scottish pub culture and modern bar experiences.
Holyrood Park Education Centre
0.9 km
Explore Edinburgh’s historic Holyrood Park through engaging ranger-led education and stunning natural landscapes at the Holyrood Park Education Centre.
Regent Road Park
1.0 km
A peaceful green oasis in central Edinburgh with iconic views and the symbolic Stones of Scotland monument.
St Anthony's Chapel Ruins
1.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of St Anthony's Chapel, a medieval beacon perched above Holyrood Park with panoramic views and rich historic mystery.
Holyrood Abbey
1.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Holyrood Abbey, a medieval royal sanctuary steeped in Scotland’s dramatic history and Gothic splendor.
London Road Gardens
1.1 km
A tranquil historic garden in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending natural beauty with neoclassical heritage and peaceful urban retreat.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
1.1 km
Explore Scotland’s royal heritage at the magnificent Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh’s historic seat of monarchy and culture.
Leith Walk
1.2 km
Leith Walk is Edinburgh’s vibrant, historic street linking city centre buzz with the lively maritime charm of Leith’s waterfront.
Leith Links
1.2 km
Historic green oasis in Edinburgh’s Leith district, birthplace of golf and witness to centuries of Scottish history.
Abbey Sanctuary - Historic Scotland
1.2 km
A historic lane beside the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where royal courtiers once lived and modern visitors now find a quiet, elegant base in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The King's Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse
1.2 km
Explore exquisite royal art exhibitions in a historic gallery at Edinburgh’s Palace of Holyroodhouse, showcasing treasures from the Royal Collection.
Wonder World Soft Play Edinburgh
1.2 km
Edinburgh’s largest indoor soft play and party venue offering thrilling slides, go-karts, and dedicated toddler zones for endless family fun.
Scottish Parliament Building
1.3 km
Explore Scotland’s modern democratic heart with free tours, debates, and iconic architecture in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
White Horse Close
1.3 km
Discover White Horse Close, a picturesque 17th-century courtyard and former coaching inn steeped in Edinburgh’s royal and social history.
Regent Rd
1.3 km
Tranquil urban park and historic street offering stunning views and cultural landmarks in the heart of Edinburgh.
Essential places to dine
The Walnut
1.3 km
Cozy and unpretentious, The Walnut offers seasonal Scottish dishes with creative flair and excellent value on Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Walk.
The Gardener's Cottage
1.3 km
An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
Down The Hatch Edinburgh
1.5 km
Bold Canadian comfort food and lively vibes meet in the heart of Edinburgh’s Antigua Street for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
1.6 km
Suspended fine dining with panoramic Edinburgh views from an architectural marvel atop Calton Hill.
Tolbooth Tavern
1.6 km
Historic Royal Mile pub blending 400 years of Scottish history with authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
Nobles Cafe Bar & Restaurant
1.7 km
Leith's historic gastropub where Scottish seasons meet craft drinks, roaring fires, and port-side charm in a dog-friendly haven of flavor and vibe.
Tapa
1.7 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the heart of Leith at Tapa, Edinburgh’s celebrated tapas bar and restaurant.
Howies Restaurant
1.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.
Heron
1.7 km
Michelin-starred modern Scottish dining in Leith with innovative seasonal menus and scenic waterside views.
Taisteal
1.8 km
A Michelin-mentioned Edinburgh gem where Scottish ingredients meet global flavours in a warm, intimate setting.
Wedgwood The Restaurant
1.8 km
Fine dining on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with seasonal Scottish cuisine and foraged ingredients in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
The Botanist Edinburgh
1.8 km
A lush botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Edinburgh’s New Town, offering creative cocktails, hearty British fare, and live music in a vibrant garden setting.
Educated Flea
1.8 km
Discover bold, inventive fusion cuisine with a Scottish twist in a cozy, friendly spot on Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Fhior
1.8 km
Experience innovative Scottish fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a minimalist, elegant setting at Edinburgh’s acclaimed Fhior.
La Garrigue
1.8 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Meadowbank Shopping Park
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant shopping park offering diverse stores, extended hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all your retail and dining needs.
Planet.A Boutique
0.7 km
Discover Edinburgh’s stylish and sustainable gift shop offering unique local treasures and eco-friendly finds on Easter Road.
Wee Leith Shop
1.1 km
Quirky novelties and charming gifts await in this cozy Leith Walk gem, capturing the neighborhood's independent spirit with playful treasures for every home.
Holyrood Gift Shop
1.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and souvenirs in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at Holyrood Gift Shop.
Logan Malloch Ltd
1.3 km
Edinburgh's Leith gem: artisanal gifts, art prints, witty cards, books & Scottish crafts in a charming shop on vibrant Leith Walk.
The Cats Miaou
1.4 km
A vibrant Leith gift shop bursting with quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced handmade treasures in Edinburgh.
Georgian Antiques
1.5 km
Explore 50,000 sq ft of Scotland's finest antiques in Leith's historic heart – from Regency cabinets to gilded mirrors in one vast warehouse.
Destined for Home
1.5 km
Discover unique gifts and personal service in the heart of Leith at Destined for Home, Edinburgh’s charming boutique for distinctive treasures.
The Wyrd Shop
1.6 km
Edinburgh's esoteric gem on Canongate: crystals, tarot, pagan jewelry, and magickal handmade treasures in a cozy witchy haven.
Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
1.6 km
Authentic Scottish kilts and Highland dress on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
TBCo | Tartan Blanket Co.
1.8 km
Discover sustainable tartan magic in Leith: touch lambswool blankets, customize with embroidery, and carry home Scotland's cozy soul from this Edinburgh gem.
Flux
1.8 km
Curated cards, artisan homewares and design-led gifts in a compact, maker-friendly shop on Bernard Street, Leith.
Ragamuffin
1.8 km
Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Curiouser & Curiouser
1.8 km
A design-led independent shop in Edinburgh, filled with art, cards, homewares, and unique gifts with a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic.
The Dragonfly
1.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Lioness of Leith
1.2 km
Leith's quirky gastropub haven for gourmet burgers, craft cocktails, and electric vibes since 2013—where quality bites meet lively nights.
Leith Dockers Club
1.3 km
Leith's 1946 social heartbeat: massive bar, function suites, beer garden, and community spirit for gatherings big and small.
Smoke & Mirrors
1.3 km
Quirky Leith cocktail haven where magic-themed vibes meet masterful mixes in an intimate, colourful escape from Edinburgh's everyday.
Three Marys
1.7 km
Leith's stylish cocktail gem with smoked margaritas, eclectic decor, and shareable plates in a historic portside nook—perfect for inventive sips and cozy evenings.
The Street
1.7 km
Casual cocktail bar by day, energetic late-night bar and small club by night — Picardy Place’s go-to spot for social evenings and weekend parties.
Malt & Hops
1.8 km
Historic Leith pub since 1749, pouring real ales and whiskies by a roaring fire amid maritime charm on the Shore.
The Cocktail Geeks
1.8 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
1.9 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
The Barologist
1.9 km
A characterful Leith pub-cocktail bar mixing inventive drinks, rustic plates and quirky interiors for relaxed nights and small celebrations.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
2.0 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Royal Mile Tavern
2.0 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Teuchters Landing
2.0 km
Discover the flavors of Scotland at Teuchters Landing, a beloved pub in Leith offering seafood, local ales, and a stunning waterfront view.
The Voodoo Rooms
2.0 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Whistlebinkies
2.0 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Banshee Labyrinth
2.1 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
2.0 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
2.1 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
2.1 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
2.2 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Why Not Nightclub
2.3 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
2.3 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Sneaky Pete's
2.4 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
2.4 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Garibaldi's
2.4 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
The Bongo Club
2.4 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
El Barrio Latino
2.4 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
The Liquid Room
2.5 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Opal Lounge
2.5 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
2.7 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
2.9 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
