Dog-friendly things to do in Edinburgh

West Regent Gardens 

Also known as the Regent, Royal, and Carlton Terrace Gardens, this beautiful garden is privately owned in the New Town area of Edinburgh. It spans across 12 acres on the east side of Carlton Hill. Share the impressive views with your pooch as you look out over the South East, but please keep them on a short lead! 

This somewhat secret garden is a blend of finely landscaped gardens that have kept their early 19th-century structure, a lime terrace, pathways, a central lawn and secluded woodland. Perfect for a bit of quiet among the city noise. 

The Meadows 

The Meadows is a large green park situated in the heart of the city, making it an ideal place to come and wind down. From here, you can see Arthur’s Seat and Edinburgh Castle! Stroll or jog down the paved pathways through the park, or bring a picnic and sit in the shade of the trees. In true Edinburgh style, you’ll find artwork installations dotted around with signs to give you more information. 

Starbank Garden in Newhaven 

Starbank Garden is a beautiful mix of sculpted flowerbeds, trees, and green lawn areas over nearly three acres. It’s been kept as a public garden since the late 19th century and still boasts a cultivated Victorian rose garden, cared for by volunteers. The ‘star’ attraction has to be the eight-pointed flowerbed, designed to look like a compass as a nod to the view of the Firth of Forth. 

There are three access points from around the city via pedestrian gates. Wheelchair users and those with pushchairs can access via a flat, paved path. Dogs are more than welcome to visit with you—be sure to keep them on a lead. 

Jupiter Artland 

Inspired by the unique landscape of Edinburgh, Jupiter Artland is an outdoor space to enjoy permanent and temporary sculptures and artworks between May to September. You’ll spot famous names such as Tracey Emin and Helen Chadwick here. There are five galleries set over 100 acres all chock-a-block with experimental art, and fear not - dogs are welcomed in with open arms! There are even events dedicated to dogs, such as ‘Dogs Love Art Too’. 

The venue is set in the grounds of Bonnington House, where you can grab a bite to eat or indulge in an afternoon tea at the bistro. Take home a souvenir - the gift shop sells all kinds of items by local artists and authors. 

Camera Obscura 

The Camera Obscura is one of the best dog-friendly places to visit in Edinburgh! There are five floors and over 100 interactive exhibits full of Illusions. Each floor has something unique to bend your mind - mirror mazes, 3D cityscapes, and kaleidoscope tunnels galore! If you make it to the top, enjoy a scenic view of the entire city reflected onto a large table in real-time. 

Dogs are more than welcome to join in the fun - they’ll be greeted at the entrance with water and snacks. It’s really easy to get here from the city, as you’ll find it next to Edinburgh Castle. Although there’s no cafe here, you’ll find snacks to fill hungry bellies at the gift shop.

St James's Quarter is an openly dog-friendly shopping centre packed full of dozens of well-known chains, independent shops, and eateries. Most of the establishments here accept dogs—just look for the blue paw print sticker on the window. To make your retail therapy easier, stop by Pet Services. They can offer you a dog pram or dog backpack for if your pooch gets tired!  

We’re sure you’ll work up an appetite, so stop off for something to eat or drink to fuel your journey back to Seton Sands Holiday Park. Don’t worry—there are plenty of drinking spots for four-legged friends too.

Brewhemia in Edinburgh is a popular restaurant and bar located in the heart of the city, directly opposite Waverley train station. It’s a pretty unique and vibrant spot with live entertainment like drag acts and brass bands! Tuck into tank beers and artisanal cocktails while you order from the food menu. Dogs are treated like any other guest—on arrival, the friendly staff provide your pooch with a comfy bed, water, and snacks to eat them going. It’s a must-visit for dog owners.