Royal Circus Gardens
Status: CLOSED for public
Contact
East Circus Place Gardens: https://www.eastcircusplacegardens.co.uk/
Royal Circus Gardens: royalcircusgn@gmail.com
India Street Gardens: contact unknown
The Hidden Treasures of Edinburgh: East Circus Place and Royal Circus Private Gardens
Nestled within Edinburgh's historic New Town, the private gardens of East Circus Place and Royal Circus are tranquil oases that reflect the city's rich architectural and horticultural heritage. These gardens, while secluded from the general public, offer a glimpse into the elegance and history that define this part of the city.
History of the Gardens
East Circus Place Gardens were laid out around 1824 as part of the grand New Town development. This half-acre plot is characterized by a mature woodland setting with a central lawn encircled by a meandering pathway. Over the decades, it has evolved into a haven of biodiversity, showcasing seasonal highlights like the stunning springtime blanket of bluebells that adorn the north bank.
Royal Circus Gardens are part of a grander scheme designed by the renowned architect William Henry Playfair in 1820. Playfair's design capitalized on the area's topography, creating an elegant semicircle of Georgian houses with private gardens and a serpentine roadway at its core. The construction began in 1821 and concluded two years later, forming an integral part of Edinburgh’s Northern New Town.
The Exclusivity of Private Gardens
Both East Circus Place and Royal Circus Gardens are private, with access limited to members and local residents. These gardens represent some of the 30 or so private green spaces within Edinburgh's New Town, which have been part of the area's heritage since the late 18th and 19th centuries. Membership often requires living in the vicinity or successfully applying through established community rules.
What the Public is Missing
The seclusion of these gardens means that the public misses out on experiencing some of Edinburgh’s finest horticultural displays and tranquil retreats.
East Circus Place Gardens: Here, visitors would find a beautifully maintained woodland garden, offering a peaceful escape amidst lush greenery and seasonal flowers. The winding paths and mature trees provide a serene environment that contrasts sharply with the urban surroundings
Royal Circus Gardens: Known for their architectural and natural beauty, these gardens offer meticulously landscaped lawns and historic features that mirror the grandeur of the surrounding Georgian architecture. The interplay of greenery and design creates an aesthetically pleasing environment that epitomizes Playfair’s vision of harmonious urban planning
The private gardens of East Circus Place and Royal Circus remain coveted retreats for those fortunate enough to hold a key, preserving a piece of Edinburgh's storied past and continuing a tradition of private urban sanctuaries.
