Malleny Garden: A Historic Walled Garden Oasis in Balerno
Discover serene beauty and centuries-old yews in Malleny Garden’s historic walled oasis near Edinburgh.
Malleny Garden, located in Balerno near Edinburgh, is a tranquil walled garden renowned for its 400-year-old clipped yew trees and a National Collection of 19th-century shrub roses. Visitors enjoy peaceful walks among over 150 rose varieties, Victorian greenhouses, and fragrant summer blooms like lavender and philadelphus. The garden offers benches for quiet contemplation and is surrounded by woodland bordering the Water of Leith.
A brief summary to Malleny Garden
- Blue Cottage, Balerno, EH14 7AF, GB
- +441314492283
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit in June or July to see the National Collection of shrub roses in full bloom.
- Bring a camera for picturesque shots of the 400-year-old yew trees and Victorian greenhouses.
- Wear comfortable shoes as paths are gravel and gently sloping in parts of the garden.
- Assistance dogs are allowed in the walled garden; all dogs on short leads are welcome in the surrounding woodland.
- Check opening hours seasonally; the garden closes at 4 pm in winter months.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Lothian Buses service No. 44 runs regularly from Edinburgh city centre to Balerno, taking approximately 40 to 50 minutes. The bus stop is within walking distance of Malleny Garden. Tickets cost around £2.50 to £4.00 one-way.
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Train and Walk
Use ScotRail services to a nearby station in Edinburgh and take advantage of the 2-for-1 National Trust entry offer by presenting a valid rail ticket and voucher. From the station, a 30-minute bus or taxi ride to Balerno is required. Walking from Balerno village to the garden takes about 15 minutes on mostly flat terrain.
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Car
Driving from Edinburgh city centre takes about 25 minutes via the A70. Limited free parking is available near the garden entrance but is not suitable for coaches. Parking can be tight during peak times.
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Cycling
Cyclists can use local bike paths to reach Balerno, with a bike rack available beside the garden entrance. The route involves moderate terrain and is suitable for regular cyclists.
Malleny Garden location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Malleny Garden
A Heritage Garden with Centuries of History
Malleny Garden is a historic walled garden situated on the outskirts of Edinburgh in the village of Balerno. The garden’s roots trace back over 400 years, famously marked by the presence of the Four Evangelists—four majestic clipped yew trees that have stood sentinel here since the early 17th century. The garden also features a 17th-century house built for Sir James Murray of Kilbaberton around 1635, with Georgian reception rooms added in the 19th century. These architectural elements enrich the garden’s heritage and provide a glimpse into Scotland’s past.A Botanical Treasure Trove of Roses and Greenhouses
Malleny Garden is celebrated for its National Collection of 19th-century shrub roses, showcasing over 100 different varieties. In total, the garden boasts around 150 rose varieties, making it a paradise for rose enthusiasts. The Victorian greenhouses, designed by MacKenzie & Moncur, add to the garden’s charm and historical significance, featuring a brass plaque above the door as a testament to their craftsmanship. Seasonal highlights include the fragrant summer blooms of lavender and philadelphus, which fill the air with delightful scents.Tranquil Atmosphere and Natural Beauty
Visitors to Malleny Garden often remark on its peaceful and contemplative atmosphere. The garden is thoughtfully designed with numerous wooden benches and stone seats scattered throughout, inviting guests to relax and absorb the natural beauty. Beyond the walled garden lies a small woodland area, bordering the Water of Leith, offering gentle walking paths and the chance to enjoy Scotland’s native flora and fauna. Dogs on short leads are welcome in the woodland, while only assistance dogs are permitted inside the walled garden.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm (4 pm in winter), Malleny Garden welcomes visitors from April through December. Admission is modestly priced, with adults paying £3.50 and Young Scot cardholders £1; National Trust for Scotland members enter free. The garden features gravel paths that are level in the upper half but gently sloping in the lower half, which may require assistance for some visitors. Limited free parking is available near the garden entrance, and a bike rack is situated beside the main gate. Coaches are advised to park nearby and walk to the garden.Surrounding Area and Additional Features
Just outside the garden stands a distinctive doocot with a saddle-backed roof, adding architectural interest to the grounds. The village of Balerno offers a quaint setting with local amenities, and the garden’s proximity to Edinburgh makes it an accessible day trip for city visitors seeking a nature escape. The garden’s peaceful setting and rich horticultural displays make it a favored spot for quiet reflection, photography, and enjoying seasonal floral displays.Conservation and Community Involvement
Malleny Garden is managed by the National Trust for Scotland, which maintains its historic and botanical significance. The garden also benefits from the efforts of the Friends of Malleny, who occasionally open the Georgian rooms to the public during summer. Volunteering opportunities are available for those interested in supporting the garden’s upkeep and community engagement, reflecting its role as a cherished local and national heritage site.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
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For the design and aesthetic lover
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For the architecture buff
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
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For the eco-conscious traveler
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For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
