Experts' Choice Award Princes Street Gardens
What the experts agree on
Edinburgh's beloved green escape sits in a historic valley with dramatic castle views, offering serene walking paths and grassy banks perfect for sunbathing. Winter brings an ice rink and seasonal markets to this tranquil oasis steps from bustling
“These beautiful gardens lie in a valley that was once occupied by the Nor’ Loch... they are split in the middle by The Mound.”
– Lonely Planet
Time Out "A former loch in Edinburgh's city centre, the gardens on Princes Street are now a serene, green space open to joggers, walkers and sunbathers year-round." Full review
Afar Magazine "It's the kind of party that packs the city streets, clogs public transportation and leaves an entire town with hungover revelers for days following." Full review
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I'd recommend bringing very warm clothing, this isn't the type of New Years that should be spent in 3 inch heels and sparkly dresses, be prepared mentally for the crowds and always show up to events early, book your hotel well in advance and try to be situated on Prince Street or The Royal Mile, don't skip tickets to the Concert in the Gardens and definitely make sure you're at the front of the line near the Vikings during the Torchlight Processional (otherwise you will miss the best part on Calton Hill).
Fodor's "These beautifully manicured gardens, directly overlooked by Edinburgh Castle, are just a few steps but a world away from the hyperactivity of Princes Street." Full review
Frommer's "Banks are steep but grassy and great for a quick bit of sun, should it shine. In wintertime, there is usually an ice rink set up and often part of the park is used for various food and gift markets." Full review
"While the gardens are both picturesque and peaceful now, this wasn't always the case — they were once home to Nor' Loch, or North Lake, a body of water where Edinburgh residents would..."
National Geographic "The Royal Mile is connected to the area around Princes Street Gardens by steep and narrow covered walkways known as closes or wynds. Cross Princes Street and you'll land in the New Town..."
Lonely Planet "Discover the Victorian-era Ross Fountain, then see the gardens from above at the 1820 Rooftop Bar inside the Johnnie Walker Experience, devoted to the famous whisky brand"
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Lonely Planet "Between them is the clipped green valley of Princes Street Gardens. It's a glorious place for a stroll, a picnic or a break from sightseeing. The gardens were created in the 1820s after..."
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Lonely Planet "The main Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens is quaint in a traditional sort of way, although it has become increasingly commercialised in recent years"
Rough Guide "When the sun shines in Edinburgh, there’s no better place to be than in Princes Street Gardens. Connecting the Old Town to the new side of the city, this stretch of green is a wonderful..."
