Your Sustainable Guide to Edinburgh

Jenna Witcombe
Jul 22, 2024
4 min read

Welcome to Edinburgh, Scotland’s enchanting capital, where ancient history meets vibrant culture and sustainable living. This guide will help you explore the city mindfully, ensuring your visit leaves a positive impact on the environment and local community. From eco-friendly accommodations to green dining options, sustainable experiences, lush green spaces, and eco-conscious shopping, Edinburgh offers a plethora of opportunities for the eco-savvy traveller.

Stays: Green Hotels and Sustainable Apartments

Elegant Victorian architecture of The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh, blending classic charm with modern luxury and sustainable practices. — The Balmoral Hotel

The Balmoral Housed in a stunning Victorian building, The Balmoral combines classic charm with modern luxury. Its sustainability initiatives include energy-efficient lighting, recycled paper, glass bottles, and plastic-free amenities. Proud champions of local and national communities, The Balmoral supports local charities and promotes tourism through exciting partnerships and campaigns.

Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel This eco-certified hostel offers budget-friendly accommodation with a green twist. It incorporates renewable energy sources, uses eco-friendly cleaning products, and has robust recycling initiatives. The hostel is perfect for environmentally conscious travellers looking for comfortable, affordable lodging.

The Dugald Stewart Monument overlooking Edinburgh, offering a panoramic view of the cityscape, highlighting the historic and architectural beauty of Scotland's capital. — Dugald Stewart Monument

Eden Locke Eden Locke combines the comforts of an apartment with the services of a hotel. This sustainable aparthotel uses energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials in its design. The in-house café offers organic and fair-trade products, making it a great base for exploring Edinburgh sustainably.

A neatly made hotel bed with crisp white sheets, offering a clean and comfortable place for rest and relaxation.

Nira Caledonia A member of the Green Tourism Business Scheme, Nira Caledonia focuses on minimising its environmental impact. The hotel utilises energy-efficient appliances, supports local suppliers, and offers eco-friendly toiletries. Its central location allows guests to explore the city on foot or by bike.

Experiences: Our Recommendations for a Green Day Out

The Water of Leith Walkway Start your day with a walk or bike ride along the Water of Leith, a tranquil 12-mile path that runs through the heart of Edinburgh. This scenic route passes through picturesque neighbourhoods, lush parks, and historic sites, providing a peaceful escape from the city's bustle. Leith Cycle Co., a family-owned bicycle shop, is conveniently situated near the beginning of the Walkway. They provide bicycle rental services for daily use.

Secrets Of Edinburgh's Royal Mile As a walking tour company, sustainability is at the heart of what Mercat Tours do. This walking tour is an ideal way to start exploring Scotland's capital. One of the first insider tips you'll discover? You can bypass the queue at Edinburgh Castle!

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Explore the Royal Botanic Garden, home to an impressive collection of plants from around the world. The garden promotes biodiversity and conservation, offering visitors a serene environment to learn about plant science and sustainability.

Dynamic Earth Dynamic Earth is an interactive museum that explores the Earth’s natural history. The facility emphasises environmental education and sustainability, providing engaging exhibits that highlight the importance of protecting our planet.

Eats: Edinburgh’s Hub of Sustainable eateries

colourful vegan food locally sourced cafe

Hendersons Hendersons is a vegetarian restaurant that has been serving locally sourced, organic dishes for decades. Their menu focuses on seasonal produce, supporting local farmers and reducing food miles.

The Gardener’s Cottage Located in a historic building, The Gardener’s Cottage offers a unique dining experience with a focus on sustainability. The restaurant serves a set menu based on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and reducing waste.

table in restuarant edinburgh with place setting close up

Portrait Café Portrait at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery offers fresh, flavorful food in an inspiring setting. Enjoy a variety of dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, all made from scratch in-house.

Timberyard Timberyard is renowned for its commitment to sustainability. The restaurant uses foraged, locally grown, and ethically sourced ingredients to create innovative dishes sourced from local, artisan suppliers & Scotland’s larder.

Green Spaces:

Central Parks to Hidden Green Gems

Holyrood Park Holyrood Park is a vast green space offering stunning views, hiking trails, and the famous Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano. This park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and provides a natural escape in the city centre.

Princes Street Gardens Located at the heart of Edinburgh, Princes Street Gardens offer a picturesque setting with beautifully manicured lawns, flowerbeds, and historic monuments. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic.

The Meadows The Meadows is a large public park popular with locals for picnics, sports, and festivals. The park's expansive green spaces and tree-lined paths make it a great place to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.

Inverleith Park Adjacent to the Royal Botanic Garden, Inverleith Park offers sweeping views of the city skyline and ample green space for various recreational activities. It’s a hidden gem perfect for a peaceful retreat.

Shopping: Eco-Friendly Stores and Markets

The Edinburgh Farmers’ Market Held every Saturday at Castle Terrace, the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market is a must-visit for fresh, locally sourced produce. Supporting local farmers and artisans, the market offers everything from organic vegetables to handmade crafts.

Armstrongs Vintage Armstrongs Vintage is a treasure trove of pre-loved fashion. Shopping second-hand reduces waste and supports sustainable fashion practices. Find unique vintage clothing and accessories that tell their own story.

The New Leaf Co-op This community-owned cooperative specialises in organic and fair-trade products. From bulk foods to eco-friendly household items, The New Leaf Co-op is dedicated to promoting sustainable living.

Garvald Supporting adults with learning disabilities through creative workshops and social enterprises, Garvald offers unique, handcrafted goods like ceramics and textiles, promoting independence and inclusion. Visit for locally made products that make a difference.

Look for green certification schemes like EarthCheck or Green Key, energy-saving initiatives, water conservation measures, support for local communities, and eco-friendly toiletries to have an environmentally friendly stay.