Princes Street Gardens

Princes Street Gardens is a park in central Edinburgh that lies between the Old Town on the hill and the New Town on the flat side. Paths run through planted beds, lawns, and under tall trees, with benches placed at many points along the route.

The park took shape from 1820 onward, after the body of water that once protected the city wall was drained. In the later 19th century, monuments, fountains, and paths were laid out that remain visible today.

The name comes from the adjacent street, named after the princes of the royal family. Visitors often sit on the grass areas facing the castle, which rises on the rock above the trees.

The park opens early in the morning and closes at sunset, with times varying by season. Access is available from several sides, including directly from the main street and from the gallery on the hill.

A floral clock on the eastern slope tells the time using living plants that are replanted each season. The mechanism inside keeps the hands moving while the blooms form the clock face.

Location: City of Edinburgh

Opening Hours: January 01-March 24: 07:00-18:00; March 25-April 21: 07:00-19:00; April 22-May 26: 07:00-20:00; May 27-August 25: 07:00-22:00; August 26-September 22: 07:00-20:00; September 23-October 27: 07:00-19:00; October 28-December 31: 07:00-18:00

GPS coordinates: 55.95005,-3.20299

Latest update: December 20, 2025 13:05