Queen Street Gardens
Central District
Welcome to Queen Street Gardens Central District
A community Garden in the heart of Edinburgh
The Central Gardens is the middle of the three Queen Street Gardens. If you would like to have a key to access the Central Gardens and live in the catchment area please see subscribers section on the Subscribers page. A subscription currently costs £130 per annum. Note this gives you access to the Central Gardens only.
Property owners in 17-38 Queen Street, 1-19 Heriot Row, 116 and 118 Hanover Street, 63 and 65 Frederick Street and 1 Howe Street should refer to the Proprietors section on the Subscribers page.
A place to relax, exercise and enjoy nature
Enjoy the flowers
Our garden boasts over a dozen flower borders. From the delicate elegance of roses or the gentle rustle of grasses, there is a border for everyone. Explore paths adorned with vibrant summer perennials, or seek out the shaded areas to catch the gentle nod of spring- flowering woodland bulbs. Whether you're a seasoned botanist or just seeking a moment of floral bliss, our garden promises that there will be something in bloom whatever the time of year.
Meet for a chat
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh's New Town our garden provides a serene backdrop for conversation. With shaded nooks, and inviting sunny benches, it's the perfect place for friends, families, and neighbours to gather and catch up. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or a lively chat, our garden welcomes you.
Get close to nature
Embrace nature where tranquility meets biodiversity. High in the trees squirrels frolic and if you look carefully you will find numerous birds including wrens, treecreepers and bullfinches. In the summer months if you are lucky you will catch sight of sparrow hawks and herons. Our pond teems with life—watch out for tadpoles, frogs, and witness the ballet of insects and water boatmen scuttling across the water. Venture deeper to discover the fascinating world of fungi, carpeting the woodland floor in an array of shapes and colours. At Queen Street Central Gardens we invite you to forge a connection with the natural world.
Let the children play
Discover a haven for young adventurers at Queen Street Gardens where nature sparks the curiosity of little explorers. Our garden is an engaging space for children to roam freely and discover hidden nooks and crannies. A dedicated, fenced-off area with sandpit caters specifically to the youngest nature enthusiasts. Parents can relish the joy on their children's faces as they discover the wonders of the outdoors in a secure environment. The garden fosters a nurturing space for the next generation to connect with nature and create cherished childhood memories. Be aware, though that we have a pond in the gardens and that children should never be left unattended.
Relax in the open spaces
Discover inviting open spaces for relaxation and recreation. Bask in the warmth of the sun, finding your perfect spot for a leisurely sunbathe. Our sprawling lawns invite games and laughter. Whether you seek solitude or social connection, our open spaces cater to diverse needs. Families picnic, friends engaging in friendly matches, and individuals find solace in the embrace of nature. At our garden the open areas are not just landscapes but spaces for leisure, fostering a sense of community and well-being. No keep of the grass signs here!
Discover woodland walks
A hidden gem, our garden boasts a diverse array of mature trees, including a large collection of elms, a magnificent copper beech and several oaks. These towering guardians provide a serene escape, transporting visitors to a oasis within the urban landscape. As you meander through the wooded paths, the rustle of leaves and dappling sunlight create a sensory symphony. Our garden offers not just a city garden but a sanctuary, inviting you to explore nature's timeless beauty amidst the embrace of venerable tree varieties.