The Meadows (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is The Meadows?
What makes it 84% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can jog wide paths, read on lawns, join pay-as-you-go tennis or croquet, and feel safe in daytime, but limited lighting after dark means late visits need extra caution.
Positives:
- Easy transport access: Multiple bus routes stop nearby at Bruntsfield Place and Melville Drive.
- Free entry: No park admission fee—you only pay for optional activities.
Challenges:
- Muddy paths: After rain the walkways can get slippery—wear waterproof footwear.
- Limited toilets: Park toilets close at 6 pm; plan ahead for evening visits.
What is The Meadows?
- A historic 60-hectare public park on a former 18th-century floodplain south of Edinburgh’s Old Town
- Expansive level lawns framed by mature plane and lime trees, intersected by broad promenades and footpaths
- Facilities include children’s playgrounds, multi-sport pitches, a cricket square and seasonal event spaces
What is so special about The Meadows for solo trip?
- Run or walk along flat, tree-lined routes
- Relax with a book in the Community Garden
- Try a solo croquet session with locals
- Join a beginner tennis course at the courts
- Enjoy casual people- and dog-watching from a bench
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: A 2-3 hour visit lets you run, relax, and try a solo croquet session without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in The Meadows
Morning run or walk:
Use the wide, flat, tree-lined paths for a workout.
Tip: Start at Middle Meadow Walk to avoid the busiest sections.
Community Garden reading:
Borrow or swap a book at the Little Free Library next to the toddler play area.
Tip: Bring a picnic blanket and sit near the plants for quiet ambiance.
Solo croquet taster:
Join a Golf Croquet session with Meadows Croquet Club for £5.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to borrow mallet and meet other players.
Beginner tennis course:
Enroll in the four-week “New to Tennis” program at the Meadows courts.
Tip: Book online via Edinburgh Leisure to secure your spot before it fills.
People and dog watching:
Sit on a bench and observe local life unfold in the park.
Tip: Choose a bench near the cricket square for varied activity views.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Meadows
- Arrive early: Grab a good bench spot or open lawn before it fills midday.
- Book in advance: Reserve the tennis course and croquet sessions online to avoid sold out.
Reviews of The Meadows
Wanis Alanazi
Nestled just south of Edinburgh’s city centre, The Meadows is a sprawling public park loved by locals and visitors alike. It blends open grassy expanses with tree-lined paths and offers a range of recreational facilities, including tennis courts, croquet lawns, sports pitches, and the city’s largest children’s play area.  Rich History • Originally occupied by the Burgh Loch (also known as the So...
RithuTheExplorer Vlog
The Meadows in Edinburgh is pure magic during cherry blossom season. A pink canopy stretches across the park, and walking through it feels like stepping into a dream. It’s peaceful, full of locals just enjoying the moment—no rush, no noise, just beauty. One of my favourite spots in the city, especially in spring.
Madison Riley
Lovely park at any time of year, but especially in early spring with all the blossoms in the trees — truly special. It’s a fun local haunt for the University of Edinburgh students whose main library is north-adjacent, so you’ll often see games of football or little groups of people gathered together on the grass. It can get super busy on sunny days or during the uni’s reading week. Absolutely wort...
giselalala
a very nice park, especially cherry blossom season, there are plenty room for plenty activities here, playing football, spike ball, they have a tennis court that you can rent as well, kid’s park on the corner too!
Debra Motherwell
Nice open space- lots of students hanging out enjoying the sun, playing guitars or sports. Some wrought iron benches along the paths. Loads of daffodils in early April and cherry blossoms come out around mid-April.
When is the best time to visit The Meadows (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
In April walk under cherry blossoms along the north path. In summer check the annual Meadows Festival dates. After rain wear boots—the paths become muddy.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Croquet session | GBP 5 |
| Beginner tennis course | GBP 40 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 45 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of The Meadows
Address: Melville Dr, Edinburgh EH9 1ND, UK
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About The Meadows
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+44 131 529 515110 BEST nearby Activities
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