Braidburn Valley Park
Address: 1 Greenbank Crescent, Edinburgh, EH10 5TE
This public park is located in the south of Edinburgh, near Morningside and Oxgangs. It is named after the Braid Burn, a stream which runs through the picturesque valley. The area was once farmland, but became a park in 1933. Today, it is a popular recreational space. A great place to walk, cycle and enjoy the local wildlife. A variety of insects, birds, fish and small mammals are spotted. The Wildlife Art Trail is a fun activity for the kids – collect rubbings from plaques dotted around Braidburn Valley, each featuring drawings by local children of the different wildlife seen at the park.
There is a real community feel to this park, with local people getting involved in its development over the years. On its south eastern slopes, a collection of cherry trees are set in the shape of the Girl Guides’ Trefoil logo. They were planted in 1935 by a group of 5,000 Girl Guides, to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of King George V. Over 70 years later, some of them returned, along with a group of current Girl Guides, to help replant and maintain the trees. There are also wildflower meadows and bird boxes in the park, put there by 120 local primary school children to attract more wildlife. In 2002, the Friends of Braidburn Valley Park group was formed, which encourages the local community to help protect and manage the park.
5 things to do at Braidburn Valley Park
- Walk or cycle.
- Work out on the outdoor gym equipment.
- Look out for local wildlife.
- Follow the Wildlife Art Trail.
- Have a go at the Orienteering Course.
