Discover the Serenity of East Princes Street Gardens
Explore East Princes Street Gardens, a lush urban park in Edinburgh, featuring stunning views of the castle and vibrant floral displays.
A brief summary to East Princes Street Gardens
- Princes St, Edinburgh, EH2 2DG, GB
East Princes Street Gardens is a picturesque public park located in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland. This lush, green oasis provides a serene escape from the busy streets surrounding it, making it an ideal spot for tourists looking to unwind. Stroll along the winding pathways lined with vibrant flower beds and towering trees, or find a quiet bench to sit and enjoy the ambiance. The gardens are beautifully maintained, showcasing seasonal blooms that add splashes of color throughout the year. One of the highlights of East Princes Street Gardens is its stunning backdrop – the majestic Edinburgh Castle perched atop Castle Rock. Visitors can capture breathtaking photographs of the castle framed by the park’s natural beauty. The gardens also host several notable monuments, including the Scott Monument, a tribute to the famous Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. Climbing the 287 steps of this gothic tower rewards you with panoramic views of the city. In addition to its scenic beauty, the park is a hub for cultural events, especially during the summer months when various festivals and performances take place. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely picnic on the grass or participating in a local event, East Princes Street Gardens offers a unique blend of nature, history, and culture that enriches any visit to Edinburgh.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful experience.
- Don't forget your camera; the views of Edinburgh Castle are spectacular!
- Check for any local events or festivals that might be happening during your visit.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawns while soaking up the atmosphere.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're starting from Edinburgh Waverley Station, exit the station and head towards Princes Street. Once you are on Princes Street, walk westward until you reach the corner of the street where you see the Scott Monument. East Princes Street Gardens is located just behind the monument. You can enter the gardens from the path that runs alongside it.
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Walking
From the Royal Mile, head down to North Bridge and cross over towards Princes Street. Once you have crossed, take a left down Princes Street and continue walking until you reach the Scott Monument. East Princes Street Gardens will be situated just behind it, accessible from the path at the back.
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Walking
If you are at the Edinburgh Castle, exit the castle and walk down the Royal Mile until you reach the junction with North Bridge. Turn left onto North Bridge and head towards Princes Street. Cross the street and walk left until you see the Scott Monument. East Princes Street Gardens is located just behind the monument.
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Bus
You can take any bus that stops at Princes Street. Look for stops that have routes heading towards the city center. Once you get off, walk towards the Scott Monument, which is a prominent landmark visible from the bus stop. East Princes Street Gardens is just behind the monument.
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Tram
Board the tram at any stop along the route towards York Place or Edinburgh Airport. Get off at the Princes Street stop. From there, walk towards the Scott Monument which is a short distance away. East Princes Street Gardens can be accessed from the paths surrounding the monument.
Attractions Nearby to East Princes Street Gardens
Landmarks nearby to East Princes Street Gardens
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Warriston's Close Stairs
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Melville Monument
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The Real Mary King's Close
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JK Rowling’s Handprints
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Princes Street Gardens
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St Giles' Cathedral
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Edinburgh Underground
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Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
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Mercat Cross
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Museum Context
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Earl of Hopetoun Statue
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The Witches Well
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The Scotch Whisky Experience
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The High Street Wellhead
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Uncovered Edinburgh