Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in The Southern

"In the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, and at the very centre of Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, Princess Street Gardens is another of Edinburgh’s important parks. Here you will see the world-famous Floral Clock and an array of public monuments such as the David Livingstone Statue and the Scott Monument, to name a couple. Please note this is a gated park and the gates are opened and closed according to the opening times."

"In view of the Castle and separating the Old Town and New Town, Princes Street Gardens are one of the most popular green spots in the city. Divided into East and West, they attract dog walkers, city workers and families in search of some calm and tranquillity on the midst of the capital. The perfect spot for a picnic on a sunny day."

"At the foot of the castle and along Edinburgh's main thoroughfare you'll find Princes Street Gardens. It's a popular place for locals and tourists to enjoy a spot of lunch and take in the breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle. The park is split into two by The Mound where you'll find two excellent art galleries."

"Right next to the Scottish Parliament building and underneath the stunning backdrop of the Crags and Arthur’s Seat, Dynamic Earth tells the story of the history of the Earth. This is a really fun museum, with an emphasis on interactive and entertaining rides – although the science is certainly not dumbed down. We really feel it has something for everyone. From a time machine ride into the past, to a spaceship simulation that takes you right to the Big Bang itself, this is an educational and fun experience that we think is fun for the whole family."

"Yes, it’s a bit of a hike (just punning it up left and right here) from Arthur’s Seat but totally worth a visit for their delicious vegetarian Scottish breakfast. Seriously one of the best breakfasts in Edinburgh."

"Also known as Edinburgh’s Secret Garden and on the other side of Holyrood Park from Edinburgh city centre, Dr Neil’s Garden is a heaven of tranquillity and a font of inspiration for artists, musicians and writers. It was originally created by Drs Nancy and Andrew Neil, who had a keen interest in horticulture and medicine. Child friendly: yes Address: Dr Neil’s Garden, Old Church Lane, Duddingston Village, Edinburgh EH15 3PX Opening hours: Mon to Sun: 10am – 5pm More information on visiting this garden"

"Dr Neil’s Garden is a wonderfully quaint place to wile away an afternoon or as a pit-stop on your way up to Arthur’s Seat. Tip: If you're lucky you may catch deer cooling off in the nearby Loch. *Guide-dog friendly!"

"Edinburgh’s quintessential secret garden, in the shadow of a 12th-century kirk, is one of the most peaceful green spaces in Scotland. Cultivated in the 1960s by doctors Andrew and Nancy Neil from a scrappy piece..."

"I suggest a late lunch after you explore the charming, cobbled streets of this historic area and experience some street performers, Canongate Kirkyard (Adam Smith is buried here), Dunbar Close, St. Giles Cathedral, and eventually Edinburgh Castle itself, all the way at the top of the Royal Mile (Be sure to book your Edinburgh Castle skip the line tickets in advance). The charm and beauty of Edinburgh, Scotland never cease to amaze me."

"Edinburgh Waverley is the perfect blend of old and new, with areas dating back to the 1800s and other sections being constantly expanded, developed and changed. Travellers are welcomed to Scotland’s capital with stunning arches, and can walk out straight onto Princes Street beneath a glass ceiling which offers a perfect view of the Edinburgh sky. As well as being the primary link between Edinburgh and the rest of the UK, the station is also one of several links between the Old Town and the New Town — bringing people together in many different ways."

"Located under North Bridge, between the Old and New Towns, the zigzagging rooftop of Waverley Station – Edinburgh’s main railway station – is another iconic feature of the city’s architecture. Its vast glass roof makes the interior light and open (provided the weather cooperates) making the first impression of Edinburgh a pleasant one."

"The John Knox House dates back to 1470, making it one of the oldest buildings in Edinburgh, as well as the oldest on the Royal Mile. Today, it’s a beautifully maintained museum that showcases the house and those who lived here, with special attention paid to the Scottish Reformation. Although it’s not on every tourist’s trail, those who do their research will be well rewarded with a fascinating trip back through time."

"John Knox House is a fascinating mediaeval building constructed in 1470. It is named after the famous Protestant reformer John Knox, although he actually only lived there for a short period in his life. The house was also home to James Mosman, an ardent supporter of Mary Queen of Scots who was one of the "Queen's Men" who seized Edinburgh Castle in a failed attempt to have her reinstated."

"The John Knox House dates back to 1470 and it is associated with the Scottish Reformation. Even though the name-giver John Knox only lived in the house for a brief period in the 16th century, his association with the house stuck throughout the…"

"Disclaimer: My meal at Loudons New Waverley was a gifted experience. All opinions are my own. Loudons runs two cafes in Edinburgh – the original on Fountainbridge, and a new spacious location at New Waverley, a development project with living space, hotels, shops and restaurants just off the Royal Mile."

"A family run bakery and restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, afternoon teas and a tempting selection of delicious cakes, Mimi’s is perfect for any occasion, or even just a midweek treat!. Now with six locations throughout Edinburgh, Mimi’s Bakehouse, Corstorphine and Leith are now open daily for dine-in all-day brunch, afternoon tea, cake and coffee. Bookings can be made via the website."

"This award winning family run bakery has three other outlets in Edinburgh, and is a popular spot for afternoon tea. Serving up a selection of homemade cakes, it’s also a good lunch spot especially if you can grab an outside table on a warm day. Photo: Mimi's Bakehouse"

"If you fancy treating yourself, head to Casa Angelina— a quaint vintage tearoom and patisserie located in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town. Its vegan afternoon teas are the cream of the crop, complete with fluffy scones, savoury bites and a selection of cakes. Alongside the classics, it also offers a selection of sweet treats with some really unique flavour combinations including chocolate and lavender cake, and choc chip and rosemary cookies!"

"Located in Haymarket Terrace, our readers highly recommend Coates Cafe for some of the best coffee the Capital has to offer. Grab some hand crafted slow bread and pastries and salads too while you're there."

"Roseleaf Café is located in Leith near the port and Royal Yacht Britannia, so handy if you’re planning a visit there. Established in 2007, they’re family run and a cross between a gastro pub, cafe and bistro. Decorated with vintage furniture, hats from around the world and other quirky finds, they’re open from 10 am to 10 pm every day."

"This family-run café is renowned for their Pot-Tails – cocktails in teapots. Open from 10am to 10pm every day, they offer everything from brunch to dinner and Sunday roasts. A visual delight, the café is decorated with antique furniture and the walls are covered with artworks from aspiring artists trying to sell their wares."

"The Roseleaf serves top-notch grub|Courtesy of Roseleaf / © AdamJBellPhotography. There’s a real buzz in Leith just now, with the diversity of its restaurants, from gastropub to Michelin-star restaurants, unrivalled elsewhere in Edinburgh. One of its most beloved pubs serving top-notch grub is the Roseleaf."