Most famous for the Fringe Festival, its hills and long history, Scotland’s capital also has something to offer for all your doggy pals. From the smallest Shih Tzu to the biggest Bernese Mountain Dog (and everything in between), our dog friendly picks should cover all bases.
Want to walk a dog in Edinburgh? Whether your pal is borrowed or owned, the dog walks in Edinburgh won’t disappoint. Here are a few of our favourites:
Looking for someone to keep your pup company? Sign up now to find a trusted borrower near you.
Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park
For a spectacular view of the city and a good stretch of the legs then Arthur’s Seat is a must for Edinburgh dog walkers. This iconic landmark, standing at 251m tall, is a dormant volcano and the highest peak in Holyrood Park - a 640 acre Royal Park adjacent to Holyrood Palace.
You and your doggy friend can choose from a selection of routes. From a leisurely 15 minute stroll to the summit to a 1 hour hike depending on what you feel like. The amazing views of Edinburgh from the top are some of the best in the city.
Inverleith Park
Inverleith Park is described as “An oasis of green in the heart of Edinburgh.” It is situated right beside the Royal Botanic Gardens in the northern part of the city. As with Arthur’s Seat, the park is on high ground so boasts some great views of the city.
You and your four legged friend can enjoy a picturesque stroll down the tree-lined paths. Then maybe catch a sports game at one of the many pitches within the park or sit by the pond and watch the swans. Word on the street is that this park is the best place to watch the fireworks from the Castle on Hogmanay!
Plan your dog walk in Inverleith Park.
Cammo Estate
Located on the north-west outskirts of the city, the once privately owned Cammo Estate now sits in ruins within these large grounds. It’s 85 acres are now managed by the City of Edinburgh council. The lodge house at the entrance of the estate acts as a visitor centre and the start to this short, yet wonderful walk. In the midst of it all stands Cammo Tower, which you can’t miss!
There is a free car park on Cammo Walk and the estate is easily accessible by bus or car. You and your doggy pal will feel like you’re in the middle of the countryside on these lovely and impressive grounds.
Plan your dog walk to Cammo Estate.
Harrison Park
Harrison Park sits alongside the Union canal in the Merchiston area of Edinburgh. The canal path is a popular route for commuters into the city centre and the area is buzzing with wildlife. In the late summer, a stroll along the canal can be the perfect place to spot bats.
The Wildflower Meadows were planted in May 2013 as part of the Urban Pollinators Project. They occupy the east of the park near the canal, whilst in the West, you can visit Zazou Narrowboat Cafe. Zazou, Edinburgh’s only floating cafe, is dog friendly so you can bring your furry friend with you. The boat’s resident dog, Sally, is usually on board too!
The Meadows
In the heart of Edinburgh and extremely popular with residents and visitors alike are The Meadows. The Meadows are a hive of activity and boasts something for everyone with playing fields, large grassy areas, a cafe and much more. It’s also a bit of a student hub, thanks to it’s proximity to university buildings, so if your pooch likes socialising then a trip to The Meadows is a must.
The Meadows Festival, which takes place in June, has a dog show and BorrowMyDoggy’s pawsome partners Dogs Trust also attend the festival with their mobile re-homing unit and free microchipping for all dogs!
The Royal Mile
And of course, you have to pay a visit to the famous Royal Mile. It's found in Edinburgh's old town and is packed with quirky boutiques, aromatic whisky stores, and wonderful dog-friendly pubs and restaurants. (Pawfect for a bite to eat). The Lower Royal Mile walk runs down to the Palace of Holyrood and takes you past museums, parliament, and some of the incredible historic landmarks of the area.
Why not pop into the charming Royal Mile tavern, bursting with character; staff might even be good for a bowl of water and a biscuit if you bring your four legged friend.
Calton Hill
The walk up Calton Hill is fabulous. Think of it as training for Arthur's Seat; a little easier to climb, but you still enjoy wonderful panoramic views. The hill features an unfinished replica of the Parthenon in Athens, now affectionately known as Scotland's Disgrace - as it was never finished. You can also visit two separate monuments, the City Observatory and the old Calton Burial Ground.
In April, the hill hosts Edinburgh's Beltane Fire Festival.
Princes Street Gardens
Princes Street Gardens were created in 1820, separating Old Town from the New Town. The gardens are over 37 acres and are divided into two parts by an artificial hill. The landscape is designed to be beautiful all year round, and features a cast iron fountain, which was originally exhibited at the Great Exhibition of London in 1862.
While the gardens are beautiful, they do tend to be very busy, so they ask that you keep your dog on a lead.
High paws and thanks to our pawsome pals at Walkiees for their contribution. We hope you’re as excited about your next dog walk as we are.
Looking for the pawfect match to join you on a city walk? Or would you like your dog to see the best that Edinburgh has to offer with a new friend? Why not sign up to BorrowMyDoggy today.
