The Meadows used to be a lake which supplied a large portion of the city's needs. It was decided to drain it in the 1700s to create an open space in which the city's inhabitants could escape urban life. Nowadays, it's open to everyone and remains very popular with people from the area, including the students in the nearby University of Edinburgh, for running, picnicking, and playing sports.The Middle Meadow Walk is a relaxing route through the heart of the park, with the trees lining its sides making for an attractive evening stroll. There are a number of cafés to choose from at the end, as well as a couple of shops. If you'd like to build up a bit more of a sweat, bring your bike, board, blades or skates and whizz by on one of the many cycle paths criss-crossing the park.Other sporting choices are available to the visitor as well, such as pitch and putt at the upper end of the grasslands, or the old-world sport of croquet at The Meadows Croquet club. The club is open to newcomers and experts alike, and can be found to the west – have a look at the website to see when's best to visit. A spot of tennis can also be had on one of the 16 courts available to the public.There are three playgrounds to choose from for the kids, and masses of open space for them to run around in. The park is also the perfect spot for a picnic, so pack a basket with everything you need and spend a leisurely afternoon grazing under the open skies.The Meadows is south of central Edinburgh, beside the Georges Square campus of Edinburgh University. It is located on a number of bus routes, and there is plenty of parking available nearby. The park is open 24 hours a day, all year round.
The Meadows Tours and Activities
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Tours & day trips
See all 596 activitiesOpens in new tabEdinburgh Castle: Guided Tour with Live Guide
Private & custom tours
See all 243 activitiesOpens in new tabThe Potter Trail Private Tour
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 78 activitiesOpens in new tabEdinburgh: Whisky Tasting with History and Storytelling
Holiday & seasonal tours
See all 27 activitiesOpens in new tabEdinburgh: Haunted Underground Vaults and Graveyard Tour
Adventure & outdoor
See all 25 activitiesOpens in new tabEdinburgh: Scenic Bike Tour
Popular places to visit
University of Edinburgh
The campus of Edinburgh's venerable educational institution is spread seamlessly around the architecture of the city and opens to the public during year-round events.
George Square
You can find out about the history of Edinburgh when you stop by George Square. Discover the area's lively festivals and shops.
Greyfriar's Bobby
Visit a cemetery that has entered into legend because of a faithful dog who waited for years by his master’s grave.
National Museum of Scotland
Science, nature, history and culture come together in this spectacular museum, which celebrates learning about the world and all its wonders.
Edinburgh University Collection of Historic Musical Instruments
You can study the exhibits at Edinburgh University Collection of Historic Musical Instruments, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Edinburgh. Discover the area's fascinating museums and notable monuments.
George Heriot’s School
You can learn about the history of Edinburgh with a visit to George Heriot’s School. Discover the area's lively festivals and notable monuments.
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