The Meadows Tours and Activities

The Meadows featuring heritage elements
The Meadows
The Meadows featuring a playground and a garden
The Meadows
The Meadows showing a playground


This elegant and picturesque public park is the perfect spot for a picnic, to play some sport, or enjoy a stroll.

Once upon a time, the Meadows was a loch that supplied drinking water to much of Edinburgh. However, when it was drained back in the early 1700s, it was turned into parkland and today it is a favourite spot with locals who come here to relax and rewind. Why not join them for a jog, a cycle ride, or simply take a pleasant and relaxed stroll through this picturesque spot?

Amble along the Middle Meadow Walk, the tree-lined path which runs through the heart of the park. On your way through, pause for a while at one of the cafés at the top of the walkway, and browse in some of the shops that can be found there. There are cycle lanes throughout the park too, perfect if you want to cycle or try some rollerblading.

There are plenty of sports fields and courts around the park too. You can play a round of golf towards the upper end of The Meadows, try your hand at croquet at The Meadows Croquet Club to the west of the park, or enjoy a game of tennis one of the park's 16 courts. Check online for more information about the facilities and their availability to the public.

If you have children with you, they will have the perfect opportunity to run round and let off steam in this inviting open space. There are also three designated play areas around the park where they can have even more fun.

Many visitors come here simply to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. On a warm day, bring a picnic with you and sit on the flat lawn or at one of the park’s picnic tables.

Situated to the south of the city beside the Edinburgh University campus at George Square, the Meadows is open all day every day. Take the bus there along one of the bus routes that service the area or if you’re coming by car, paid street parking is available.

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Beautiful view of the beach with palm trees

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