Dog-Friendly Edinburgh

Edinburgh ranks among Europe's most dog-friendly capital cities. An ancient volcano rises from the city centre, providing genuine wilderness walking within minutes of the Royal Mile. Parks, gardens, and green corridors thread through historic neighbourhoods, whilst pubs, cafes, and restaurants welcome four-legged visitors with water bowls and treats as standard.

What surprises visitors is Edinburgh's greenness. This isn't just a historic city with a few parks; it's a city built around dramatic natural landscapes that dogs and owners can explore freely. From climbing Arthur's Seat to paddling at Portobello Beach, from following the Water of Leith to relaxing in Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh delivers memorable experiences for canine companions.

Parks and Green Spaces

Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat

Edinburgh's 650-acre royal park dominates the city's eastern skyline, offering genuine hill walking within the urban boundary.

Arthur's Seat: The 251-metre summit of this ancient volcano provides Edinburgh's most spectacular viewpoint. The main path takes approximately one hour up and forty-five minutes down. Multiple routes exist, from gentle approaches via the road to steeper scrambles. Most reasonably fit dogs manage comfortably.

Holyrood Park Circular: A 5.6km route circling the park, passing Dunsapie Loch and St Margaret's Loch. Easier than summiting Arthur's Seat whilst still providing dramatic scenery.

St Anthony's Chapel Route: A 3.2km walk visiting atmospheric medieval ruins without the steeper summit approaches. Excellent for dogs who prefer gentler terrain.

Dog Considerations: Dogs can roam freely in most areas. The summit can get busy on sunny weekends. Some exposed sections require care with nervous dogs.

Refreshments: The Sheep Heid Inn on the park's eastern edge dates to the 14th century and welcomes dogs warmly.

Princes Street Gardens

These 37-acre gardens divide Edinburgh's Old and New Towns, sitting in the shadow of the Castle.

Walking: Pleasant strolling through landscaped grounds with views to the Castle throughout. The Ross Fountain and Scott Monument provide landmarks.

Dog Policy: Dogs must be kept on leads throughout. Perfect for gentle walks rather than energetic romps.

Events: Edinburgh Christmas Market occupies the gardens in winter. The gardens host various events year-round.

The Meadows and Bruntsfield Links

Popular south-side green spaces combining to create substantial off-lead territory.

The Meadows: Tree-lined paths and open grass attract dog walkers, students, and picnickers. Cherry blossom season (spring) transforms the area into pink paradise.

Bruntsfield Links: Adjoining green space with similar character. Roads separate the two areas, so watch dogs near boundaries.

Dog Considerations: Excellent off-lead space. Very popular, so dogs should be comfortable around others.

Refreshments: The Salisbury Arms and numerous Marchmont cafes lie within easy reach.

Inverleith Park

Near the Royal Botanic Garden, this park offers scenic walks with paths, benches, and shaded areas.

Dog Considerations: Good off-lead space. Popular with local dog walkers.

Blackford Hill and Hermitage of Braid

South Edinburgh nature reserve combining hill views with woodland walking.

Blackford Hill: Easy ascent providing views to Arthur's Seat and the city centre.

Hermitage of Braid: Woodland trails following the Braid Burn through a gentle valley.

Dog Considerations: Excellent combined walk. Dogs can run freely on the hill and through much of the woodland.

Calton Hill

One of Edinburgh's seven hills, offering quick access to spectacular city views.

Walking: Steps from the east end of Princes Street or corner of London Road lead to the summit within 10-15 minutes.

Highlights: The National Monument, Nelson Monument, and Edinburgh Observatory dot the hillside.

Dog Considerations: Easy climb suitable for all dogs. Can get busy with tourists.

Walks and Trails

Water of Leith Walkway

This 12-mile path follows the river from Balerno to Leith, passing through diverse neighbourhoods.

Best Section: Dean Village to Stockbridge passes through a dramatic gorge that feels miles from the city. St Bernard's Well provides an atmospheric landmark.

Stockbridge Market: If visiting on a Sunday, the walk emerges at Stockbridge Market, which often includes dog treat stalls. Gets busy.

Dog Considerations: Generally excellent off-lead walking, though some sections pass through busier areas. The Colinton Tunnel features impressive murals.

Refreshments: Numerous options throughout, particularly in Stockbridge.

Portobello Beach

Edinburgh's seaside suburb offers two miles of sandy beach, dog-friendly year-round.

For Dogs: Off-lead beach running, swimming, and sand digging. The promenade provides alternative walking in poor weather.

Getting There: Approximately one mile from Holyrood Park. Bus services run from the city centre.

Refreshments: The Espy and numerous cafes along the promenade welcome dogs.

Cramond Island

Accessible via a causeway at low tide, this uninhabited island provides adventure.

Walking: The causeway walk takes approximately 20 minutes each way. The island offers exploration opportunities.

Important: Check tide times carefully. The causeway floods completely at high tide, and people (and dogs) regularly get stranded.

Dog Considerations: Excellent adventure for water-loving dogs. The causeway can be slippery.

Refreshments: Cramond Village has cafes and pubs.

Dean Village

This historic village sits just below the city centre, offering picturesque walking along the Water of Leith.

For Dogs: Charming streets and riverside paths. Less than 10 minutes' walk from Princes Street.

Dog-Friendly Attractions

City Bus Tours

Edinburgh Bus Tours welcomes dogs on their hop-on, hop-off sightseeing buses. Rest your feet whilst touring the city's highlights. No charge for dogs.

The 3 Bridges Tour includes Queensferry, the Forth Bridge crossing, and a boat cruise. Dogs welcome.

Edinburgh Printmakers

Art lovers can bring dogs to this print studio, galleries, and shop in creative surroundings.

Scottish Seabird Centre

Located in North Berwick (30 minutes from Edinburgh), this marine conservation centre welcomes well-behaved dogs on leads throughout.

National Museum of Flight

Dogs on leads welcome on the outdoor site at East Lothian (not inside hangars).

Libraries

Several Edinburgh libraries welcome dogs, including Granton Library's dog-friendly days.

What's Off-Limits

Edinburgh Castle: Dogs not permitted (except assistance dogs). You can walk up to the castle gate for views.

Edinburgh Zoo: No dogs allowed.

National Museums and Galleries: Generally no dogs (except assistance dogs).

Dog-Friendly Pubs

Edinburgh's pub culture embraces dogs warmly.

Old Town

Greyfriars Bobby Bar: Opposite the famous statue, naturally dog-friendly.

The Last Drop (Grassmarket): Historic pub welcoming dogs.

The Beehive Inn (Grassmarket): Traditional pub with dog-friendly policy.

Cold Town House (Grassmarket): Stylish bar in converted church. Dogs in ground floor. Excellent rooftop terrace (humans only).

Holyrood 9A: Near Holyrood Park. Gourmet burgers and craft beer. Dogs welcome.

The Devil's Advocate (Advocate's Close): Whisky specialist tucked away off the Royal Mile. Dogs welcome.

New Town and Stockbridge

The Bow Bar (West Bow): No-frills pub specialising in real ale and whisky. Enthusiastic dog welcome.

Stockbridge Tap (Stockbridge): Popular neighbourhood pub.

The Bailie Bar (Stockbridge): Traditional pub welcoming dogs.

Hamilton's Bar (Stockbridge): Local favourite with dogs welcome.

Cumberland Bar (New Town): Classic Edinburgh pub.

Wally Dug (New Town): Dog-themed pub, naturally welcoming.

Southside

The Salisbury Arms (Marchmont): Near The Meadows. Good food, dogs welcome.

The Auld Hoose (Holyrood): Whisky selection and rock jukebox. Dogs welcome.

The Dog House (Southside): Name says it all. Very dog-friendly.

Beyond the Centre

The Sheep Heid Inn (Duddingston): One of Scotland's oldest pubs. Traditional skittles alley. Dogs welcome. Perfect post-Arthur's Seat location.

The Espy (Portobello): Gastropub near the beach. Dogs welcome.

Dog-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants

City Centre

The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant (National Galleries): Outdoor terrace welcomes dogs with views to Princes Street Gardens.

Luckenbooths (Royal Mile): Scottish produce with terrace seating. Dogs welcome.

Hendersons (Hanover Street): Vegetarian/vegan restaurant welcoming dogs (mention when booking).

The Roseleaf (Leith): Quirky cafe-bar with cocktails and brunch. Dogs welcome.

Stockbridge

Cafe Florentin: Pastries, cakes, and coffee. Dog treats available.

Piecebox: Cafe and bakery with hearty fare.

Shopping

Just Dogs (Stockbridge): Essential visit for dog owners. Food, treats, toys, and advice.

Getting Around

Public Transport

Lothian Buses: Dogs allowed at driver's discretion. Must be on lead. Generally one dog per bus.

Edinburgh Trams: Same policy as buses. Dogs at driver's discretion.

ScotRail Trains: Up to two dogs welcome per passenger.

Taxis

Most Edinburgh taxis accept dogs, though confirming when booking helps.

Accommodation

Edinburgh offers substantial dog-friendly accommodation.

Central Options

The Balmoral Hotel: Luxury option. Dogs receive bed, bowl, and welcome treats. Staff provide lists of dog-friendly attractions and local dog walkers.

B+B Edinburgh (Rothesay Terrace): Victorian townhouse welcoming dogs with beds, bowls, and treats. 20-minute walk from Castle.

Travelodge Edinburgh Central: Budget option accepting dogs.

Rental Apartments

Numerous dog-friendly apartments throughout the city suit longer stays or those preferring self-catering.

For more accommodation options, see our guide to dog-friendly Scotland.

Practical Information

Best Times to Visit

Spring: Cherry blossom in The Meadows. Pleasant temperatures for walking.

Summer: Long evenings, outdoor seating, Festival season (August - very busy).

Autumn: Dramatic colours, quieter after Festival.

Winter: Edinburgh Christmas Market. Atmospheric but cold.

The Famous Bobby

Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye Terrier who guarded his owner's grave for 14 years, became Edinburgh's most famous dog. His statue opposite the Greyfriars Bobby Bar remains a popular photo opportunity.

Combining with Wider Scotland

Edinburgh provides an excellent base or starting point for exploring dog-friendly Scotland. Day trips reach the Scottish Highlands, the Borders, Fife, and East Lothian beaches.

The contrast between Edinburgh's urban sophistication and Scotland's wild landscapes creates varied holidays. Consider combining city exploration with Highland adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Edinburgh dog-friendly?

Very much so. Dogs welcome in most parks, numerous pubs and cafes, on public transport, and at many attractions.

Can I take my dog up Arthur's Seat?

Yes, dogs welcome throughout Holyrood Park including Arthur's Seat summit. Most reasonably fit dogs manage the walk.

Are dogs allowed on Edinburgh buses?

Yes, at driver's discretion. Dogs must be on leads.

Which Edinburgh pubs welcome dogs?

Numerous pubs throughout the city welcome dogs. The Bow Bar, Greyfriars Bobby Bar, Holyrood 9A, and The Sheep Heid Inn rank among popular choices.

Is Portobello Beach dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs welcome year-round with no seasonal restrictions.

Can dogs visit Edinburgh Castle?

No, dogs (except assistance dogs) cannot enter the castle. You can walk to the gate for views.

Is Edinburgh Zoo dog-friendly?

No, dogs are not permitted at Edinburgh Zoo.

What's the best park for dogs in Edinburgh?

Holyrood Park offers the most dramatic scenery and space. The Meadows provides excellent off-lead territory. Blackford Hill and Hermitage of Braid combine both.

Explore Scotland's Capital

Edinburgh proves that city breaks with dogs can be exceptional. From scaling an ancient volcano to relaxing in historic pubs, from beach walks to world-class dining, Scotland's capital welcomes four-legged visitors at every turn.

Ready to explore? Book your dog-friendly Edinburgh accommodation and discover why this magnificent city captivates visitors across generations.

Luke explores Edinburgh with Charlie the German Shepherd, Golden Retrievers Buster and Ember, Labradors Simba and Max, and French Bulldog Molly. The pack particularly enjoys Arthur's Seat followed by refreshment at the Sheep Heid Inn.