Edinburgh often gets a reputation for being a grey, foggy city, with plenty of moody castle pictures floating around the internet. However, those who visit will soon discover the abundant green spaces around the city, including parks and gardens. What if we told you there are small pocket gardens off The Royal Mile that locals and visitors alike can escape to for a tranquil moment away from the UK’s worst tourist trap?
The Royal Mile is exactly one Scottish mile long, which is 1.6 kilometres, and was named the UK’s worst tourist trap in 2023. Boasting plenty of souvenir shops, overpriced restaurants and thousands of people passing through every week, the street is known to be the visitor hub of the Scottish capital connecting Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace.
However, all hope is not lost as The Royal Mile is home to plenty of closes with pocket gardens. There are eight pocket gardens hidden away from the hustle and bustle overall, however, some of them are not open to the public. However, we thought we’d put together a list of the secret gardens that anyone can visit, for free.
1. Dunbar’s Close Garden
Dunbar’s Close Garden is the most well-known of them all, open between 7am and 7:30pm depending on the season. The 17th-century garden boasts contagious tranquillity, inviting visitors to take a break, listen to the birds and breathe in some fresh air. Once guests walk in, the noise of the city streets fades away, leaving one feeling refreshed. Even Robert Burns is said to have spent time in the garden, with his statue easily spotted as you walk in.
2. Chessels Court
Chessels Court is home to a white mansion-like tenement building courtyard with a heart-shaped ivy, with a wee 18th-century garden to complement the space. To say it’s Instagrammable would be a wild understatement, as the secret garden is just stunning. The spot is always open and is free to visit, with a huge cherry blossom tree to check out during April and May.
3. Sandeman House Garden
Sandeman House Garden is located on Trunks Close and owned by the Scottish Book Trust, open during office hours. The pocket garden is so secluded that it gets missed by many, perfect for some well-deserved me-time. To find the hidden spot, find Trunks Close to the left of Jon Knox’s House, and enjoy!