The serene secret garden tucked away in the heart of Edinburgh's bustling city centre
The garden is so well hidden that many people don't even know it exists.
Scotland is known for its many iconic and spectacular gardens. From the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh to Dawyck Botanic Garden in the Scottish Borders, there is no shortage of lovely green spaces.
If you are looking for something a bit more secluded, however, there are also plenty of lesser-known gardens dotted around the country. One of these is even found within the Scottish capital, and it is the Daily Record's latest Walk of the Week.
For the newest edition of our weekly series where we spotlight Scotland's top walks and beauty spots, we have chosen Dunbar's Close in Edinburgh. The secret garden can be found off the Royal Mile—one of the busiest areas in the city.
Hiding in plain sight, Dunbar's Close is a quiet oasis in the heart of Edinburgh. It dates back to the 1970s, though looks significantly older as it is based on a formal 17th-century garden.
Located on the left side after you enter the Canongate walking away from the castle, the garden was created by landscape architect Seamus Filor and funded by the Mushroom Trust. Previously an unremarkable close, it was transformed into a lush green retreat.
Dunbar's Close is divided into numerous sections that each contain various hedges, trees, and flowers. It was designed to give visitors an idea of what gardens may have been like back in the 17th century.
The best time to visit the garden is in spring or summer, when the flowers are in bloom and add a pop of colour to the predominantly green space. During the summer, you may spot flowers such as snapdragons, cupid's dart, honeywort, and marigold.
There are also benches dotted around Dunbar's Close, ideally situated for anybody needing to take a rest amidst a busy day out in Edinburgh. You can even bring a picnic with you and enjoy lunch in idyllic surroundings.
Read on for a few photos showing why Dunbar's Close is a hidden gem worth exploring. For those looking for further travel inspiration, some of the Daily Record's past Walks of the Week can be found below:
The little known Scottish beach that is 'jewel in the crown of secret coast'
The perfect Scottish beach near 'best fish and chips in the world'
The hidden gem loch just outside Glasgow near 'best fish and chips in Scotland'
The hidden gem Scottish waterfall pool you can swim in to cool off during heatwave
The Scottish Highlands hike that ends at 'Scotland's cosiest pub'
The Scottish city cherry blossom walk near historic pub with beer garden
The Scottish seaside beach walk with 'delicious' fish and chips and ice cream shop
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