28 September 2025 (10:00 - 17:00)
The Dean Gardens are the largest of the four 'pleasure grounds' to border the Water of Leith and they are the second-biggest private amenity gardens in Edinburgh encompassing over seven acres. They feature a series of planted slopes and level lawn areas with many delightful viewpoints over the Dean Valley. The lay-out of pathways, lawns and the wooden pavilion are virtually unchanged from the original Victorian era plans but the tennis court has been replaced with a well equipped children's play area.

The Dean Gardens was originally founded in the late 1860s by public-spirited, nearby residents who were against plans to construct a new terrace of townhouses near the impressive Telford Bridge completed in 1832. The funds for the acquisition of the land, in today’s money, cost almost £1.8 million pounds. These funds were raised entirely by private subscriptions, modest bank loans and fund raising events - an impressive community feat with an enduring legacy.

Activities
These private gardens will be open to the public for Doors Open on Sunday 28 September. There is a children’s play area and dogs are also welcome.
There will be a refreshments stall run by Garvald.
Artists from Garvald will exhibit and sell their work. There will be a free art activity for children and there will be live music by local musicians.
To access the garden please use the gate by the Dean Bridge on Eton Terrace.
Gardens will be open from 10 till 5, Planned activities including stalls and music etc will take place from noon till 4pm.

Wheelchair access: The path is not tarmac but sand and gravel. Some parts of the garden are less accessible by wheelchair as there are steps, but it is possible to access most areas by sloping paths, however these steep gravel paths between levels may be difficult for wheelchair users.
There are no toilets in the gardens, but there are public toilets in nearby Stockbridge.
We will provide a water bowl for the dogs of visitors to the gardens.
There are a number of permanent benches and some seats in the gardens for visitors, and a few picnic tables.

Address
The Dean Gardens, Access Gate by the Dean Bridge on Eton Terrace, Edinburgh