The best of Edinburgh Gardens, a go-to park for everyone in Melbourne
When I was in Fitzroy, I often asked around for a good afternoon hangout spot. You know what most of the locals say? “Edi Gardens.” And you know what they say: never doubt a local’s recommendation — and I didn’t.
Later on, I found myself going back every afternoon until my last day in town. It was easy to understand why people love it so much — it’s big enough to have a quiet spot of your own, and you never run out of sights to see and activities to do.
I guess it’s just the Edinburgh Gardens’ magic, nothing more. I bet you’ll love it too once you visit the place.
Where is Edinburgh Gardens?
Edinburgh Gardens is a large park in North Fitzroy and is one of the biggest parks in Yarra. The park is surrounded by open lawns, trees, and garden beds.
It’s also well-equipped with public toilets, playgrounds, BBQ pits, and more.
How to get to Edinburgh Gardens
Via bus: Take bus routes 207, 246, 250, 251, and 504. Take any of these routes and get off at the closest stop to your preferred entrance.
For example, if you are entering from the east side, the Rae Street stops (routes 250 and 251) are closer.
Via train or tram: Train lines Hurstbridge and Mernda have the closest stop near Edinburgh Gardens. Meanwhile, for the tram, take the lines 11, 86, and 96.
Via taxi or ride-sharing platform: Get a cab or book a ride via an app like Uber. Just let them know that you’re going to the Edinburgh Gardens and they’ll take you there right away.
Via private car: On your Google Maps or Waze App, just type in ‘Edinburgh Gardens’ as your destination and it’ll show you the best route to get there.
Parking is available on Alfred Crescent.
What to do in Edinburgh Gardens
1. Have fun with your fur baby
– Media credit: Dog Photog
Edinburgh Gardens is a dog-friendly place, so you’re welcome to bring along your fur baby during your visit. With all the vast space and lush greenery, it’ll be like a joyful extension of your living room.
Nearly half of these gardens are reserved as off-leash areas, giving your dog the freedom to run and play. The pathways and most of the open lawns are shaded as well, so you surely won’t have a hard time looking for the perfect spot.
Plus, you’ll also find dog drinking fountains and bag dispensers in case your dog needs to rehydrate or when nature calls.
2. Have a family outing
– Media credit: Mandy Bell
When it comes to family time, Edinburgh Gardens is an ideal place for that, too. With vast and lush open lawns and trees all around, the activities you can do here are endless.
Feel free to lay down a rug under a shade or take one of the picnic tables.
You’ll find barbecue pits spread around the gardens, which makes for a perfect afternoon barbecue.
When you go to Alfred Crescent, you’ll find a well-equipped playground that even kids at heart can enjoy. There are stepping logs, rope nets, monkey bars, and more.
The south playground is also a great option if you prefer to just sit back and supervise. It’s fully fenced, so you won’t have to worry about losing sight of the kids.
3. Get moving
– Media credit: Bobitayoga
Edinburgh Gardens is perfect if you’re looking for a spot for physical activities. The network of paths that connects one point to another is designed to make jogs and walks comfortable.
Some of the paths connect to the nearby Capital City Trail, offering a chance to extend your pace even beyond the garden loops. It’s perfect for cyclists and runners who prefer a longer route.
There’s also a basketball half-court near Alfred Crescent where you can play with friends or join casual matches.
If you enjoy community-led fitness programs and you need a little more structure in your workout, you can join guided sessions, like yoga.
4. Try out the skatepark
– Media credit: Fitzroy Bowl
The skatepark in Edinburgh Gardens, also known as the ‘Fitzy Bowl,’ welcomes both beginners and experienced skaters. The skatepark isn’t just bowls; it’s been fully revamped with a street-style section that includes rails, ledges, banks, and a mini ramp.
It’s a seamless blend of the old and new skatepark, adding fresh features without forgetting about the old-school bowl lovers.
The area is also designed inclusively. There are seating areas for spectators, shaded spots, and accessible zones, welcoming families, wheelchair users, and casual viewers.
What’s nearby
1. Darling Gardens
– Media credit: Sam Rush
Website: https://www.yarracity.vic.gov.au/facilities/darling-gardens
Address: 237 Gold St, Clifton Hill
Phone: +61392055555
Operating hours: 24 hours
Darling Gardens is located just across Queens Parade from Edinburgh Gardens. It’s basically like Edinburgh Gardens’ close sibling and is a great extension if you’re exploring around Fitzroy North.
The place is pretty similar to Edinburgh Gardens, but smaller and quieter: it has expansive lawns, a good amount of shade, a playground, and picnic amenities.
Darling Gardens also welcomes dog owners. About half of the park is off-leash; however, dogs must always be on-leash within 10 meters of the playground.
2. Fitzroy Gardens
– Media credit: City of Melbourne
Address: Wellington Parade, East Melbourne
Phone: +61396589658
Operating hours: 24 hours
In contrast to Darling Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens, on the other hand, is a larger (yes, larger than Edinburgh Gardens) public park known for its history and beautiful structures.
Some of the popular ones here are the Victorian-style garden, Captain Cook’s Cottage, and the model Tudor Village. There’s also a beautiful glasshouse conservatory that displays seasonal flowers.
While it’s less about games and picnics, Fitzroy Gardens is definitely a visual delight for those who love exploring new sights.
3. Yarra River Trails
– Media credit: Melbourne Victoria in Pictures
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JKxMepX3NYg4WqXj8
Address: Yarra Riv Walk, Warburton
Operating hours: 24 hours
If, along your walk, you feel like switching to a different sight, the Yarra River Trails are within reach. In just a short walk or pedal west from the gardens, you’ll reach the edge of the river where the paved paths to the trails are.
The most accessible path is the Main Yarra Trail, a shared route for walkers and cyclists. Follow the path, and it’ll take you to the eastern suburbs all the way to the city.
If you prefer a loop, the Yarra River Short City Loop is a solid choice, too. It’s about 2.5 miles long and will take approximately an hour for a full circle.
Where to eat near Edinburgh Gardens
1. Recreation Bistro x Bottleshop
– Media credit: The Recreation
Website: http://the-recreation.com/
Address: 162-170 Queens Parade, Fitzroy North
Phone: +61390422707
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- Wednesday to Saturday 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- Sunday 1:00 pm – 8:00 pm
As a combined wine bar, bistro, and bottleshop, Recreation Bistro and Bottleshop is not your usual dining spot. Although they have that fine dining front, this place is the ideal venue for a casual brunch, dinner, or a nightcap drink after a day at the gardens.
With a focus on natural wines, their wine selection features a curated 300-bin wine list from various regions in Australia. They also allow BYO (wine only) from Sunday to Thursday.
For their food menu, Recreation Bistro x Bottleshop offers bistro-style food, including ravioli, croquettes, and more.
2. Tramway Hotel
– Media credit: Tramway Hotel
Website: http://www.tramwayhotel.com.au/
Address: 165 Rae St, Fitzroy North
Phone: +61484941505
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday 2:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Friday and Saturday 12:00 pm – 12:30 am
- Sunday 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Just around the corner, literally just a few minutes’ walk from the gardens, you’ll find this nice neighborhood pub with a great selection of craft beers and delicious burgers.
And not just any burgers — the menu plays around with meat, plant-based, and gluten-free options. Add in a killer mac and cheese or chips and gravy, and you’ve got yourself one heck of a meal.
There’s also live music that makes the environment even more fun and indulgent.
3. Horn Please
– Media credit: Horn Please
Website: https://hornplease.com.au/
Address: 167 St Georges Rd, Fitzroy North
Phone: +61394978101
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- Thursday to Friday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- Saturday 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- Sunday 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Horn Please is a popular Indian restaurant in Fitzroy North that serves street-food-inspired dishes. The restaurant is full of colorful decorations that make the atmosphere festive and inviting.
What makes this place special is that they don’t make things complicated. They simply use local ingredients to enhance the flavours of Indian street food.
If you’re with friends or family and you’re done dipping in and out of Edinburgh Gardens, swing by the restaurant and enjoy their dishes which are best for sharing.
Where to stay near Edinburgh Gardens
1. Veriu Collingwood
– Media credit: Veriu Hotels and Suites
Website: https://veriu.com.au/hotels/veriu-collingwood/
Address: 25 Johnston St, Collingwood
Phone: +61399898100
Veriu Collingwood is a great option if you’re staying around the area for a short time and you’re looking for accommodation with complete amenities.
Each suite in this aparthotel comes with its own kitchenette, full-sized fridge, in-room laundry, and smart TVs. For communal facilities, there’s a rooftop pool, gym, and even an outdoor cinema.
To sum it all up, after your day at the park, Veriu Collingwood is ready to welcome you like it’s your own home.
2. Royal Derby Hotel
– Media credit: Royal Derby Hotel
Website: http://www.royalderbyhotel.com.au/
Address: 446 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
Phone: +61394172321
Royal Derby is your local bed and brew comfort spot that not only offers great accommodation but also a local pub experience.
Although it only offers basic lodging, the place comes with all the essentials: a common kitchen, laundry facilities, and well-kept rooms. You’ll even get a 10% discount if you order food and drinks downstairs at their bar.
It’s the ideal place to stay if you’re the kind of person who winds down with a pint of beer before heading to bed.
3. The StandardX
– Media credit: The StandardX
Website: https://www.standardx.com/melbourne/
Address: 62 Rose St, Fitzroy
Phone: +61391244800
At StandardX, you’ll find options from king rooms to even larger suites with luxury additions like a French press coffee maker.
If you’re bringing along your dog with you, this is the perfect place to stay, as they offer rooms with balconies that are dog-friendly.
Additionally, dining or lounging is not a problem here; they have “BANG,” a Thai street-food restaurant, and a rooftop bar that’s exclusive only for guests.