Parks in Edinburgh

Figgate Park

Previous page
Page 2 of 22
Next page

With its distinctive burn running through the park, pond and animated wildlife, the Figgate Park provides an attractive green space in the heart of Edinburgh 's East Neighbourhood. Its many entrances are commonly used by local walkers, joggers and cyclists as a convenient access to areas between Duddingston and Portobello. The pond, with a boardwalk and wide variety of waterfowl is the main attraction, but a children's play area, teen area and even a pictorial wildflower meadow, ensure there is lots to see and do in the park.

The Parks and Gardens directory gives the full list of facilities at Figgate Park. The park has been awarded a Green Flag since 2010, in recognition of it being a quality greenspace.

History

The area was originally known as Figgate Muir, an expanse of moorland through which the Figgate Burn flowed from Duddingston Loch to the sea, with a broad sandy beach on the Firth of Forth. The name Figgate was thought to come from the Saxon term for "cow's ditch", and the land was used as pasture by the monks in 1763.

The lands known as the Figgate Whins were sold by Lord Milton to Baron Mure for about £1500, and afterwards feuded out by the latter to a Mr. William Jameson at the rate of £3 per acre. Jameson discovered a valuable bed of clay near the burn, and built a brick and tile works beside the stream. Several gallons of water from the burn was diverted to power the water wheels several of these lays can still be seen. He later built an earthenware pottery factory, and the local population grew so that Portobello became a thriving village. The City of Edinburgh Council acquired the park in 1933.

Getting involved

There is a Friends of Figgate Park group who help look after the park by carrying out practical activities and holding events. Contact the Friends of Figgate Park if you would like to join them or require further information about their work.