The Meadows, Edinburgh - a group of people sitting on top of a lush green field
1 / 10

The Meadows Edinburgh

4.7
·7k reviews·, United Kingdom

Edinburgh's vibrant green heart, famous for its stunning cherry blossoms and lively student atmosphere. A perfect spot for relaxation and recreation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mid-April

Cherry blossoms in full bloom

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
The Meadows, Edinburgh - a group of people sitting on top of a lush green field

The Meadows Edinburgh

Best Time

Mid-April

Cherry blossoms in full bloom

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Edinburgh's vibrant green heart, famous for its stunning cherry blossoms and lively student atmosphere. A perfect spot for relaxation and recreation.

4.7
(7k reviews)

"The Meadows in Edinburgh is pure magic during cherry blossom season. A pink canopy stretches across the park, and walking through it feels like stepping into a dream."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌸 Blossom Timing is Key

Cherry blossoms usually peak mid-April. Check local buzz for exact timing!

👟 Comfy Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this large park.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cherry Blossom Spectacle

Cherry Blossom Spectacle

Throughout the park

A breathtaking pink canopy transforms the park into a dreamscape. Pure magic in spring!

Vibrant Student Hub

Vibrant Student Hub

Grassy areas

Lively atmosphere with students playing sports, music, and enjoying the sun.

Children's Playground

Children's Playground

South-west corner

Edinburgh's largest play area, perfect for families with kids to burn off energy.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Blossoms (or the Buzz)

If you're dreaming of pink petals, aim for mid-April for the cherry blossoms. For a lively atmosphere with students and sports, sunny days are best. Be aware it gets busy during peak times and university reading weeks! Reddit

Getting Around The Meadows

The Meadows is a large park, so comfortable shoes are a must for exploring its many paths and green spaces. It's easily accessible by foot from the city center, but consider public transport if coming from further afield. TikTok

Best Times

When
Mid-April
Why
Cherry blossoms in full bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunny afternoons
Why
Lively student atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Early April
Why
Daffodils and early blossoms
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The perfect Edinburgh Scotland Itinerary! It’s like Hogwarts in real life and is even better than I imagined!! Here are some of my favorite things to do during a weekend in Edinburgh! P.s. While we do mentiom Harry Potter a few times, we do not support JK and she makes no money off of this!! #e#edinburghs#Scotlands#scotlandtravele#edinburghscotlandh#harrypotterh#hogwartsd#diagonalleyw#weekendg...
@followmeaway
240.9K likes • 4.4M views

🌸 Blossom Timing is Key

Cherry blossoms usually peak mid-April. Check local buzz for exact timing! Reddit+1

👟 Comfy Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this large park. TikTok

Advice for Tourists #fy #fyp #fypシ #foryou #travel #traveltok #travelbucketlist #traveltips #PlacesToVisit #thingstodo #edinburgh #edfringe #edinburghfringe #visitscotland #hiddengems #travelinspiration #familydayout #edinburghzoo #edinburghhiddengems #explore #viral #traveltiktok #TikTokTaughtMe #hiddengem #hiddenscotland #thingstodoinedinburgh
@auldedinburgh
202.7K likes • 1.8M views
🚨TODAY🚨 Hopefully yous have recovered from the pub crawl by now… To celebrate the end of Freshers Week, we’re having a BBQ in the Meadows THIS EVENING🍻 Meet us @ 4pm - we’ll be putting up our location on the stories! Drinks and food will be provided, but feel free to bring more👩‍🍳 Get your football and rugby ball out for a little kickabout! Come along with your flatmates and friends! SEE Y...
irishsocietyuoe
32 likes • 0 views

☀️ Sunny Day Hotspot

Expect crowds on sunny days, especially during university reading weeks. Reddit

⚽ Bring Sports Gear

Perfect for a casual game of football or frisbee on the open lawns. Instagram

I highly recommend comfortable walking shoes #edinburghscotland #edinburgh #scotlandtravel #scotlandtrip #solofemaletraveler
@justchasingsunsets
137.4K likes • 1.7M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌸 Blossom Timing is Key

Cherry blossoms usually peak mid-April. Check local buzz for exact timing! Reddit+1

👟 Comfy Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this large park. TikTok

☀️ Sunny Day Hotspot

Expect crowds on sunny days, especially during university reading weeks. Reddit

⚽ Bring Sports Gear

Perfect for a casual game of football or frisbee on the open lawns. Instagram

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Grab some local treats and enjoy a relaxing picnic on the grass. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Meadows is a beloved green space in Edinburgh, particularly magical during cherry blossom season. Visitors praise its expansive lawns, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent recreational facilities, making it a favorite for locals and students alike. While it can get busy on sunny days, its beauty and tranquility offer a wonderful escape.

"The Meadows in Edinburgh is pure magic during cherry blossom season. A pink canopy stretches across the park, and walking through it feels like stepping into a dream. It’s peaceful, full of locals just enjoying the moment—no rush, no noise, just beauty. One of my favourite spots in the city, especially in spring."

RithuTheExplorer Vlog

"Nestled just south of Edinburgh’s city centre, The Meadows is a sprawling public park loved by locals and visitors alike. It blends open grassy expanses with tree-lined paths and offers a range of recreational facilities, including tennis courts, croquet lawns, sports pitches, and the city’s largest children’s play area. 

Rich History
• Originally occupied by the Burgh Loch (also known as the South Loch), which supplied the city with water until 1621. The loch was drained in 1722, transforming the area into parkland with avenues and paths shaped by Sir Thomas Hope’s designs. 
• The area was historically used for common grazing well into the 20th century. In 1827, it earned legal protection from development. 
• It holds a place in sporting lore—host to Edinburgh’s first football derby in 1875 between Hearts and Hibernian. Remnants of that legacy include the commemorative plaque near the former Whalebone Arch."

Wanis Alanazi

"Nice open space- lots of students hanging out enjoying the sun, playing guitars or sports. Some wrought iron benches along the paths. Loads of daffodils in early April and cherry blossoms come out around mid-April."

Debra Motherwell

What People Like

Stunning cherry blossoms
Lively student atmosphere
Large children's playground

What People Dislike

Can get very crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Meadows is easily accessible on foot from Edinburgh's city center, about a 15-20 minute walk south of the Old Town. Several bus routes also stop nearby, making it convenient to reach from various parts of the city. TikTok

Street parking is available in the surrounding residential areas, but it can be limited, especially on busy days. It's often easier to use public transport or walk if you're staying centrally. TikTok

Yes, cycling is a great option! There are dedicated cycle paths and plenty of space to lock up your bike around the park. TikTok

The main paths through The Meadows are generally flat and paved, making them accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Some of the grassier areas might be uneven. Reddit

From Waverley Station, it's a pleasant walk south (around 20-25 minutes). Alternatively, you can take a short bus ride or a taxi. Avoid the steep steps if you have heavy luggage; Cockburn Street is a better route to the Royal Mile area which is closer to The Meadows. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, The Meadows is a public park and entry is completely free. You can enjoy its grounds and facilities without any admission fee. Reddit

The Meadows is open to the public from early morning until late evening. There are no set closing times, but it's advisable to be mindful of local bylaws regarding noise after dark. Instagram

Yes, The Meadows hosts various events throughout the year, including the annual summer fair, community BBQs, and sometimes music or sports events. Check local listings or social media for current happenings. Instagram

You can rent tennis courts and croquet lawns. It's recommended to book these in advance, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

The children's playground at The Meadows is free to use for everyone. It's one of the largest in Edinburgh and a popular spot for families. Reddit

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, playing sports like football and frisbee, visiting the large children's playground, or simply relaxing on the grass. It's also a prime spot for enjoying the cherry blossoms in spring. InstagramReddit

The cherry blossoms typically bloom in mid-April. The exact timing can vary slightly each year, so it's good to check local reports or social media for updates. Reddit+1

While there aren't cafes directly inside the park, there are numerous options in the surrounding areas of Marchmont, Bruntsfield, and the Southside, offering everything from coffee to full meals. TikTok

Absolutely! The park offers beautiful scenery, especially during cherry blossom season, and the open spaces provide great opportunities for capturing wide shots. TikTok

The Meadows features sports pitches, cricket squares, and tennis courts. It's a popular spot for casual games and organized sports. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The tree-lined avenues are stunning, especially when the cherry blossoms are out. The open lawns also offer great backdrops, and the playground can be fun for candid shots. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon offer the best natural light for photography, creating softer shadows and a warmer glow. Golden hour is particularly magical here. TikTok

Drone usage in public parks in Edinburgh is generally restricted and requires permission. It's best to check with the local council for current regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

While The Meadows is primarily a green space, you can get distant views of Edinburgh Castle and Arthur's Seat from certain vantage points within the park. TikTok

It's ideal for landscape, nature, portrait, and lifestyle photography. The changing seasons offer diverse photographic opportunities throughout the year. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Meadows is a fantastic destination for families. Its largest children's playground in Edinburgh is a major draw, offering plenty of space and equipment for kids to enjoy. The wide-open grassy areas are perfect for running around, playing games like frisbee, or having a family picnic. Reddit

During spring, the cherry blossoms provide a magical backdrop for family outings. The park is generally safe and accessible, with paved paths suitable for strollers. Nearby cafes in Bruntsfield and Marchmont offer convenient spots for snacks and refreshments. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers

Solo travelers will find The Meadows a welcoming and safe space to explore. The park offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle, with beautiful walking paths and plenty of benches to rest. It's a great place to enjoy a coffee and a pastry from a nearby cafe, as recommended by many visitors. TikTok

For those who enjoy walking, The Meadows connects to other scenic routes, such as the Water of Leith Walkway, offering opportunities for longer explorations. The vibrant atmosphere on sunny days also makes it a pleasant place to people-watch and soak in the local student life. TikTok

🌸 Nature & Photography Enthusiasts

Spring is the prime time for nature lovers and photographers, with the cherry blossoms creating an unparalleled visual spectacle. The park's diverse flora and open landscapes offer numerous opportunities for stunning photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. TikTokReddit

Beyond the blossoms, The Meadows provides a tranquil environment for observing local birdlife and enjoying the changing seasons. The well-maintained paths make it easy to navigate and find picturesque spots for capturing the beauty of Edinburgh's green spaces. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Meadows: A Historical Green Lung

Originally the site of the Burgh Loch, which supplied Edinburgh with water until the early 17th century, The Meadows underwent a significant transformation. The loch was drained in 1722, and the area was subsequently developed into parkland with paths and avenues designed by Sir Thomas Hope. This historical evolution from a vital water source to a public recreational space is a key part of its identity. Reddit

For centuries, the land served as common grazing ground. Its protection from development was legally secured in 1827, ensuring its preservation for public enjoyment. The park also holds a unique place in sporting history, having hosted Edinburgh's first football derby between Hearts and Hibernian in 1875. Remnants of this sporting legacy can still be found, including a commemorative plaque near the former Whalebone Arch. Reddit

Today, The Meadows is a beloved green space, blending its historical roots with modern recreational use. It remains a vital part of the city's fabric, offering a peaceful escape and a venue for community gatherings and sporting activities. Instagram

Experiencing The Meadows in Spring

The Meadows truly comes alive in spring, with the star attraction being its spectacular cherry blossoms. During mid-April, the park is draped in a breathtaking pink canopy, creating a magical and dreamlike atmosphere. Walking through the park at this time feels like stepping into another world, offering a serene and beautiful experience that draws locals and visitors alike. Reddit+1

Beyond the blossoms, spring also brings a vibrant energy to the park. The lawns are dotted with daffodils, and the air is filled with the sounds of students enjoying the warmer weather. It's a popular spot for picnics, casual sports like football and spike ball, and simply soaking up the sun. The combination of natural beauty and lively activity makes spring a particularly special time to visit. Reddit

For those planning a visit specifically for the blossoms, it's wise to monitor local reports as the exact peak bloom can vary slightly each year. Regardless, the overall spring ambiance of The Meadows, with its blooming trees and buzzing atmosphere, is a must-experience for anyone visiting Edinburgh. Reddit

Recreation and Activities at The Meadows

The Meadows is a hub for various recreational activities, catering to all ages. It boasts Edinburgh's largest children's playground, providing ample space for kids to play and explore. For sports enthusiasts, the park offers sports pitches, cricket squares, and tennis courts that can be rented, making it a popular spot for both casual games and organized matches. Reddit

Beyond organized sports, the open grassy expanses are perfect for informal activities. You'll often see groups playing football, spike ball, or simply enjoying a game of catch. The park's layout, with its tree-lined paths and open lawns, also makes it ideal for walking, jogging, and picnics. InstagramReddit

During sunny days, especially when university students are around, The Meadows transforms into a lively social space. It's common to see people gathered on the grass, playing music, or simply relaxing and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. This blend of active recreation and social gathering makes The Meadows a dynamic and engaging public space. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2