EUROPE EDINBURGH · UNITED KINGDOM

Princes Street Gardens

A free green break below the castle, with seasonal events that can change access.

What to expect

Set in the valley between the Old Town and New Town, Princes Street Gardens make a green route through central Edinburgh. East Princes Street Gardens holds the Scott Monument and the seasonal Christmas market; West Princes Street Gardens has the Ross Bandstand and paths below Castle Rock. The gardens are public space, while market rides, food, concerts and other events may have separate prices or restricted areas.

Free public gardens

Before you go

Entry and costs

The public gardens and outdoor paths are free to enter. The Scott Monument, Christmas-market rides, food, concerts and other ticketed events are separate; event setup can fence off parts of the gardens.

Visitor notes

Edinburgh's Christmas is scheduled from 14 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, with sites in both East and West gardens. Paths below Castle Rock have had rockfall-related restrictions: some routes reopened in 2026, but the Council's August committee minute still described a missing section on the through route between King Stables Road and West Gardens. Paths beneath the rock face and the Johnston Terrace entrance also remain closed. Follow current signs; garden gate times vary by season and event.

Opening hours

Date-specific hours are not available for this place. Check the official page for the day you plan to visit.

Good for

Castle viewsFlower displaysQuiet central walk

Official sourceForever Edinburgh — Edinburgh's Christmas 2026

Checked 1 November 2026. Hours, entry rules and access can change; check this page again before you visit.

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