Best Things to Do with your Dog in Edinburgh 2024

Things you can do in Edinburgh with your pet (that they’ll love too…)

Edinburgh is extremely dog-friendly and there are a wealth of things you can do in and around the famous city with your pet.

But hang on!

Don’t reach for the lead just yet. This here webpage is packed with secret, little known spots you and your pet will absolutely love.

Whether you’re looking for scenic walks, historical landmarks or dog-friendly cafes you’ll find the latest info in this list. We’ve mostly included FREE activities and days out, with a few paid experiences here and there.

What are the best dog walks around Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is renowned for its green spaces and it’s a fantastic city for dog walking. One of the most popular spots is Holyrood Park, where you and your dog can climb Arthur’s Seat for breathtaking views. For a more relaxed stroll, head to Inverleith Park, which offers scenic paths near the Royal Botanic Garden.

Here are some popular spots you can stretch your legs:

Dog-Friendly Beaches in Edinburgh

Beaches are the ultimate in cool for dogs. Sniff bums, dig, charge headlong into that big wet thing. Who could ask for more?

Here’s a detailed list of five more popular dog-friendly beaches in and around the City of Edinburgh with handy info about parking, access and restrictions.

1. Cramond Beach

• Postcode: EH4 6QU
• Parking: There are two car parks available near the beach, one on Cramond Glebe Road.
• Description: This sandy beach is located on the estuary of the River Almond and is known for its scenic views across the Firth of Forth. During low tide, you can walk out to Cramond Island via a causeway. There’s a promenade popular with dog walkers and cyclists and amenities such as cafes, toilets and pubs are nearby.
• Dog Rules: Dogs are allowed all year round, making it a perfect spot for a canine beach adventure?

2. Portobello Beach

• Postcode: EH15 1DT
• Parking: Limited roadside parking is available near the beach.
• Description: Situated just 2 miles east of the city center, this long, sandy beach is popular with locals and visitors alike. It has a lively promenade lined with cafes, pubs and restaurants. The beach offers stunning views across to Inchkeith Island and hosts various water sports and activities like kayaking.
• Dog Rules: Dogs are welcome throughout the year. It’s a busy beach, so keeping your dog under control is advisable during peak times?

3. Silverknowes Beach

• Postcode: EH4 5EN
• Parking: There is parking available along Marine Drive, providing easy access to the beach.
• Description: This quiet beach offers great views of the Firth of Forth and is connected to Cramond Beach by a coastal path. It’s less crowded than other beaches, making it a peaceful spot for dog walks. There’s also a long promenade that’s perfect for a leisurely walk.
• Dog Rules: Dogs are allowed year-round, with no seasonal restrictions?

4. Longniddry Beach

• Postcode: EH32 0PU
• Parking: There are multiple parking spots near the beach, particularly at Seton Sands and Longniddry Bents.
• Description: Located around 12 miles from Edinburgh in East Lothian, Longniddry Beach is a wide, open stretch of sandy shore backed by dunes. The beach is ideal for long dog walks, with views over the Firth of Forth. It’s quieter than city beaches, making it a perfect escape.
• Dog Rules: Dogs are allowed throughout the year with no restrictions?

5. Yellowcraig Beach

• Postcode: EH39 5DS
• Parking: A large car park is located close to the beach, with easy access via a short path.
• Description: Located in East Lothian, about 20 miles from Edinburgh, Yellowcraig Beach is known for its golden sands and stunning views of Fidra Island. It’s surrounded by dunes and woodlands, offering plenty of space for dogs to explore. There are also nature trails nearby.
• Dog Rules: Dogs are welcome all year, with no restrictions?

Dog-Friendly Attractions

Edinburgh offers a variety of iconic spots where dogs are welcome, making it a fantastic city for exploring with your furry friend. Below are some top attractions, with details on whether they’re free, their TripAdvisor ratings and more.

The Museum of Edinburgh

• Postcode: EH8 8BN
• Entry: Free
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.5/5

This museum, located on the Royal Mile, offers a fascinating glimpse into Edinburgh’s rich history through its collection of artefacts, paintings and historical documents.

Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcomed here, making it a perfect stop for pet owners looking to explore the city’s cultural heritage.

The museum is just a short walk from Holyrood Park, allowing for a scenic stroll after your visit. It’s a great way to combine indoor exploration with outdoor dog-friendly adventures.

Greyfriars Bobby Statue

• Postcode: EH1 2QQ
• Entry: Free (outdoor attraction)
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.0/5

One of Edinburgh’s most famous landmarks, this statue celebrates Greyfriars Bobby, a loyal Skye Terrier who famously watched over his master’s grave for 14 years.

This dog-friendly attraction is in the heart of the city near Greyfriars Kirkyard, where you can also take a peaceful walk with your pet. Nearby cafés welcome dogs, making this a perfect stop to take in some history while enjoying time with your canine companion.

The Meadows

• Postcode: EH9 1ND
• Entry: Free
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.5/5

This expansive public park is a favourite among dog owners and locals alike. With large open spaces perfect for walking, running and off-lead play, it’s an excellent place to exercise your dog while soaking up the beauty of the surrounding area.

The Meadows is close to several dog-friendly cafés and pubs, making it a great location for an extended day out.

Edinburgh Castle

• Postcode: EH1 2NG
• Entry: Paid (adult ticket £20+)
• TripAdvisor Score: 4.5/5

While Edinburgh Castle itself does not allow dogs inside (except assistance dogs), its surroundings offer magnificent views of the city and a stunning backdrop for a walk with your dog. The Castle Esplanade is a good spot for admiring the fortress and taking in the views.

The nearby Princes Street Gardens, which sits below the castle, is dog-friendly and perfect for a leisurely stroll. Though you can’t enter the historic monument with your dog, the area around it is rich in history and scenic beauty, making it worth the visit.

Holyrood Park & Arthur’s Seat

• Postcode: EH8 8HG
• Entry: Free
• TripAdvisor Score: 5/5

Holyrood Park, home to Arthur’s Seat, is a large open space right in the city and a popular spot for dog walkers. With its dramatic landscape and panoramic views of Edinburgh, it’s a perfect place to explore nature with your dog.

While climbing Arthur’s Seat can be a bit strenuous, there are gentler paths around the base and dogs are allowed off-lead in much of the park. It’s a favourite spot for both locals and visitors who want to experience a bit of wilderness in the heart of the city.

Dog-Friendly Pubs, Cafes & Restaurants

Edinburgh has a wide variety of dog-friendly pubs and cafes. Holyrood 9A is a popular pub that welcomes dogs with open arms. For a more casual vibe, try Brewhemia, which hosts “Pawhemia” events where dogs are the stars. If you’re near Stockbridge, check out The Stockbridge Tap, a cozy spot that welcomes dogs and serves great beer.

Here is a list of five of the best dog-friendly restaurants in Edinburgh, where you can enjoy great food while your furry friend is warmly welcomed.

1. The Espy
   • Location: 62-64 Bath Street, Portobello, Edinburgh, EH15 1HF
   • Phone: +44 131 669 0082
   • Food: A relaxed pub offering classic pub dishes with a creative twist. Located by the Portobello shore, this venue even offers a special dog menu featuring items like liver cake. The beachside setting makes it a perfect stop after a dog walk along the shore.
   • Type: Pub and restaurant
2. Rabble Taphouse & Grill
   • Location: 55A Frederick Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1LH
   • Phone: +44 131 622 7800
   • Food: Known for its locally sourced dishes cooked in a charcoal oven, this modern bar and restaurant offers an inviting dog-friendly atmosphere. Dogs are allowed in the bar area and the outdoor terrace, making it a great city-centre dining option.
   • Type: Grill and bar
3. The Caley Sample Room
   • Location: 42-58 Angle Park Terrace, Edinburgh, EH11 2JR
   • Phone: +44 131 337 7204
   • Food: A cosy gastropub with a dog menu that even includes dog-friendly beer. Their main menu features pub classics like burgers and steaks. The proximity to walking routes such as Harrison Park makes it an ideal spot for dog owners.
   • Type: Gastropub
4. The Roseleaf
   • Location: 23-24 Sandport Place, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6EW
   • Phone: +44 131 476 5268
   • Food: This quirky café-bar serves a varied menu of hearty Scottish meals and creative cocktails. The fun, welcoming vibe is enhanced by its dog-friendly policy and there’s plenty of space for your dog to settle in while you enjoy your meal.
   • Type: Café-bar
5. The Scran & Scallie
   • Location: 1 Comely Bank Road, Stockbridge, Edinburgh, EH4 1DR
   • Phone: +44 131 332 6281
   • Food: This upscale gastropub offers refined comfort food, including dishes created by Michelin-starred chefs. With its warm, rustic atmosphere and friendly staff, your dog will feel right at home.
   • Type: Gastropub

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