I could visit Edinburgh a hundred times, and I’m pretty certain that every time I’d find something new that fascinates me!
The intriguing capital of Scotland has it all: a rich history, breathtaking nature, and a bustling city life.
If you’re looking for some lesser known spots to explore, here are 10 amazing hidden gems in Edinburgh.
Author Bio: Jessie Moore
Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.
Map of hidden gems in Edinburgh
Use my map of the best hidden gems in Edinburgh to see where all these spots are located:
1. Dr. Neil’s Garden
Now, why would I mention a garden as the first item on this list? Well, that’s because Dr. Neil’s Garden isn’t just a beautiful garden. It’s considered the ‘Most peaceful spot’ in the UK, and the second globally. No mean feat!
Some call it ‘Edinburgh’s Secret Garden’ for good reason. It’s a charming, lush spot close to Duddingston Kirk and Arthur’s Seat.
This garden is the creation of Drs. Andrew and Nancy Neil. They came upon this spot when it was a mere wilderness, and meticulously turned it into a heavenly place.
Dr. Neil’s Garden is filled to the brim with art, spirituality, meditation, and self discovery.
There are non-stop artistic events at Thomson’s Tower. William Henry Playfair had designed this building in the 1820s for the Duddingston Curling Society, primarily to store stones.
The garden is open daily from 10am to 5pm, and entry is free. If you like, you can make a contribution towards enriching the garden’s cultural scene.
2. Dean Village
Dean Village is at the heart of Edinburgh. It’s not far from the city centre, but it’s the complete opposite of its buzz.
The quiet village is now a residential area, but it feels as if time has stopped there in the 12th century.
As you walk around, you’ll notice many milling symbols on the well-preserved historic buildings. That’s a nod to Dean Village’s industrial prominence in days gone by.
The cobblestone walkways between the charming little houses will eventually lead you to a memorable promenade along the Water of Leith.
3. Surgeons’ Hall Museums
This is one of the oldest museums in all of Scotland, as it was conceived in 1699, mainly for medical interests.
Surgeons’ Hall Museums are home to a huge collection of pathological, anatomical, and other medical exhibits.
If you have scientific curiosity like I do, then make sure to dedicate a whole morning to perusing the marvels of nature.
The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. You don’t need to book a visit, but you can take a look at the Museums’ events to pick an extra interesting day.
4. Dunbar’s Close Garden
Walking around the Royal Mile closes, or small alleys, is always a pleasure. For the total novice it could be a hit-or-miss, but if you have a plan, you’ll enjoy it a lot more!
The tourist season in Edinburgh invites big crowds all around the city, and I often crave a little reprieve from that flurry.
Fortunately, there’s a hidden gem right around the corner. If you walk down the Royal Mile, coming from the direction of Edinburgh Castle, you’ll find Dunbar’s Close Garden on the left-hand side.
Enter the Canongate, and breathe in the beauty of these well-manicured gardens.
5. Duddingston Loch
Birdwatchers, please linger here a little. If you’re fascinated by these docile winged creatures, Duddingston Loch is the go-to destination for experiencing Scottish wildlife.
The Loch isn’t too far from the city. It’s on the southern side of Holyrood Park, so you can get there easily.
Look for the breeding and wintering wildfowl within the woodland and reedbeds. Also, try not to miss the heronry at the western end.
As you stroll, and depending on the season, you can see ducks, geese, swans, a willow warbler, and maybe an otter or two!
6. The Writers’ Museum
If you’re around the Royal Mile, head to the top at the Lawnmarket, and then go to Lady Stair’s Close.
That’s where you’ll find The Writers’ Museum. It celebrates the lives and works of three Scottish writers; Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.
One of the artefacts that I find fascinating is Robert Louis Stevenson’s ring. A Samoan chief had given him that ring, with the word ‘Tusitala’ engraved on it. It means ‘teller of tales’.
Besides the personal items, you can also find the writers’ manuscripts, writings, books, portraits, and first editions of literary masterpieces.
7. The Secret Herb Garden
The Secret Herb Garden is where I can enjoy two of my favourite things: food and gardens!
This unique bistro and café is a glass building surrounded by seven acres of farmland. The food is freshly picked from the gardens homegrown goodies, and so the menu changes seasonally.
My recommendation is enjoying a moonlit dinner with lovely companions, while listening to soft music and watching nature all around you.
You can also have a hearty breakfast or a delicious lunch. And if tea is your thing, you must try their offerings with some cake.
8. The Vennel
The Vennel Steps is a vantage point from which I usually go to see a unique view of Edinburgh Castle.
To get there, I take the historic staircase from Grassmarket and climb up to the top. The vennel is a wonderful spot to take photographs of far and near buildings.
The most prominent is the castle, of course, and you can get a whole new appreciation of its colossal dimensions from the Vennel.
9. Portobello Beach
Going to Edinburgh in summer calls for a visit to the beach, and there isn’t a more charming or retro beach than Portobello.
It’s a bit far from the city, but you can reach it by train from Waverley and Haymarket.
You can swim, sunbathe, or take photographs of this idyllic hidden gem. You can also do some kayaking or sailing, if that’s your thing.
Discover more amazing day trips from Edinburgh.
10. Craigmillar Castle
Craigmillar Castle isn’t just a well-preserved Scottish castle. It’s where dramatic events changed history for years to come.
This castle witnessed the murder of Rizzio and it’s where Mary, Queen of Scots, chose as a sanctuary.
The castle was built in the 15th century, and it was made for luxury, affluence, and serenity. Currently it’s under repairs, so I’d advise checking whether it’s open or closed before visiting.
Discover more of the most epic castles in Scotland.
Do you have any favourite hidden gems in Edinburgh to add to this list? Let me know in the comments below!
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