You’ll be surprised by how little you will need to travel from The Townhouse – with its central location in the heart of Edinburgh – to find a blossoming haven to explore as a green respite from the buzz of the city.

A short walk from the Townhouse’s steps and famously lining the boundary of the new and old towns, Princes Street Gardens offers over 37 acres of botanical allure, colourful in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle that sits prominently on the western side. Not to be missed during a summer visit to the capital, the world-renowned Floral Clock on the northeast corner of the west side of Princes Street Gardens is in full bloom between July and October. First commissioned in 1903, this striking and immaculately tended display now exhibits more than 30,000 different plants. Each year sees a reiteration of the design in order to celebrate individuals or groups who have contributed impactfully to the Edinburgh community. Also on the west side of the gardens, and with the Castle as its striking backdrop, sits The Ross Fountain, a historically acclaimed cast-iron 19th century sculpture that forms the perfect summer meeting spot for visitors and locals to relax together in the sunshine with a spectacular view.

Be sure not to miss Nobles Amusement Arcade, a long serving family-run hub of fun with an array of classic and modern arcade games for some authentic seaside recreation. Tucked in beside this iconic arcade is Prom Slice, owned by the Edinburgh-renowned pizza connoisseurs at Civerinos.

Whether you want to grab a slice to fuel your stroll along the golden sands or you’ve worked up an appetite for one of their famous 20-inch pies to enjoy with a prime view of the Forth, Prom Slice have lined the beachfront with deckchairs so visitors can relax with a slice in the sun for lunch or share a selection of their delicious pizzas beside a fire with friends at dusk.