There are many secret gardens right on our doorstep, just off the Canongate, where you can step away from the cobbles and into hidden courtyards and manicured formal gardens. Incredibly peaceful and completely shielded from street traffic, Dunbar’s Close Garden is a flat, secluded 17th-century knot garden filled with shaded parterres, mature trees and gravel Meanwhile, right beside the church, is Canongate Kirkyard, a historic graveyard with flat, wide paved paths winding through open lawns and historic stone monuments. If we’re
talking a long lunch and you don’t mind paying the admission charge, the Palace of Holyroodhouse Gardens offer a beautifully level stroll across the massive formal lawns in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat.
A favourite route on a clement day is the Holyrood Park Low Loop. Walk to the very bottom of the Canongate, pass the Scottish Parliament and enter Holyrood Park. Instead of climbing up the steep volcanic crags, stick to the level paved paths lining the base. The Broad Pavement is a wide, flat pedestrian path stretching from the Palace of Holyroodhouse toward the steep hills, offering expansive views of the rock faces without needing to climb them. Alternatively, following the level paved path along Queen’s Drive leads to a short, easy loop around St Margaret’s Loch. Famous for its huge population of swans and ducks, the tranquil water provides an escape into nature, just minutes from the road.
If we’re more inclined towards an incline, Calton Hill is a favourite destination. Head to the northern edge of the Canongate and connect to the South Flank Path near Regent Road. While climbing to the top of Calton Hill requires tackling stairs, the lower south-facing terrace paths offer a completely level, asphalted walkway. Stroll past lush tree canopies and enjoy unobstructed, elevated views over the entire Holyrood valley and the Canongate roofs below.
To get the heart pumping and hit the heights, we walk to the corner of New Street, turn right and look for the steps (called Jacob’s Ladder) leading up to the south-western slope of Calton Hill. Follow the main paved walkway as it winds upwards, leading you directly to the spectacular monuments and panoramic city viewpoints at the top.
We can even see the office from here!