If you’re searching for a peaceful half-day trip in Edinburgh that’s full of charm, history, and natural beauty—without the crowds—this itinerary is for you. Tucked just behind Arthur’s Seat lies a lesser-known pocket of the city that feels like a hidden world: Dr Neil’s Garden, the historic Duddingston Village, and tranquil Duddingston Loch.
I took this walk on a quiet weekend afternoon, and it turned into one of the most soul-refreshing outings I’ve had in Edinburgh.
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🌿Dr Neil's Garden – Edinburgh's hidden sanctuary by the loch
Tucked quietly behind Duddingston Kirk, at the base of Arthur’s Seat, Dr Neil’s Garden is one of those places you almost can’t believe exists within a capital city. Often called “Edinburgh’s Secret Garden,” it was created in the 1960s by Drs Nancy and Andrew Neil and has grown into a peaceful haven of curated greenery and lochside calm.
The garden unfolds in layers—winding paths, still ponds, and secluded benches that invite you to pause. There’s a sense of quiet care in every corner, and the views over Duddingston Loch are nothing short of breathtaking.
Location: Just behind Duddingston Kirk, beneath Arthur’s Seat
Opening Hours: Open daily, free entry (donations welcome)
Highlights: Lochside views, reflective ponds, sheltered seating areas, and moments of deep stillness
Why you will love this place:
- Sweeping views over Duddingston Loch
- A dream spot for photographers and sketchers alike
- One of the most peaceful, lesser-known gardens in Edinburgh
🏡Walk through Duddingston Village – A step back in time
From the garden, I wandered into Duddingston Village, which felt like walking into a quieter, slower version of Edinburgh. This historic village, tucked beneath Arthur’s Seat, is one of the oldest in the city, and it shows in the architecture—stone cottages, narrow lanes, and a sense of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere.
It’s a small place, but full of character. The quiet streets are lined with weathered stone, low garden walls, and classic slate roofs. I didn’t go inside, but I did pause at the iconic Sheep Heid Inn, believed to be Scotland’s oldest pub (dating back to 1360). Its painted exterior and flowerpots made for a perfect photo stop.
Other points of interest:
- Duddingston Kirk – a 12th-century church with a peaceful, historic graveyard
- Winding footpaths and views of Arthur’s Seat between rooftops
- A general atmosphere of stillness—almost like a rural village hidden in the city
🦢Duddingston Loch – Birdwatching and lochside views in Edinburgh
To finish the loop, I followed a footpath along the edge of Duddingston Loch, one of only two remaining natural freshwater lochs in Edinburgh. It’s a designated wildlife reserve, and it shows—swans and geese glide across the water, herons nest in the trees, and smaller birds flit between reeds and tall grasses.
The loch has a wild, unspoiled feel to it that’s hard to come by within a capital city. There are benches and grassy patches where you can sit and enjoy the view—so bring a snack, or just pause for a moment to soak it in.
What you’ll see:
- Wildlife including birds, swans, geese and occasional otters
- Peaceful views of the loch with Arthur’s Seat rising behind it
- Locals walking, sketching, or reading in quiet spots
🗺️How to get to Dr Neil's Garden and Duddingston Village?
From Edinburgh city centre:
- Walk: ~40-50 minutes from Holyrood Palace via Holyrood Park
- Bus: Lothian Bus #44 or #12 to Duddingston Kirk
- Cycle: The route via Holyrood Park is cycle-friendly and scenic
It’s an ideal route to combine with a walk around Arthur’s Seat, or to follow up with a visit to Holyrood Park or Holyrood Palace.
✨Final thoughts – A secret side of Edinburgh
What makes this half-day so special isn’t just the scenery—it’s the stillness. In a city full of festival buzz and historic crowds, Duddingston feels like a whispered secret. You don’t need tickets, a tour guide, or much of a plan—just a few quiet hours and a sense of curiosity.
If you’re searching for quiet places to visit in Edinburgh, off-the-beaten-path walks, or free outdoor activities, this is a perfect itinerary. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and unforgettable.