Edinburgh’s Top 5 Spots for tired parents!
- Laura Vida, Feature Writer
- 15 hours ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 1 hour ago
Patina Bakery at Edinburgh Park Central
By Laura Vida
We’re loving the summer holidays. But we’re also relearning how to pace ourselves. Nursery during term time lends a natural rhythm to the day. Whereas without nursery, we all have to watch our energy levels. 3 playdates in a row will never work for us, whatever the weather.
When kids are too young to self-regulate, it’s important to incorporate rest into their day. And it helps to have a few sanctuaries up your sleeve.
Here's where we like to relax in Edinburgh, with or without friends.
Waterstones, Princes Street
This is perhaps a bit of an odd choice. But my 5-year-old daughter is happy to sit and cool down while I plough my way through her chosen books. I love the way the flats are displayed so that little people can actually see them. NB: Maybe bring a blindfold, so that you can manoeuvre you child past the tiny toy section. The soft toys are irritatingly accessible here.
2. Starbank Park (the upper half, not the bank)
For a parent without a big garden, this former private garden is a godsend. If the loo were always open, and the main gate shut, it would be perfect. But there’s shade, beauty, books, bugs and endless opportunities for a little explorer. NB: Head to Mr Eion (East Trinity Road) or Starbank Inn for refreshments etc.
3. Earth In Common, Leith Links
Ideal for unbearably hot days, you’ll find refreshments for everyone at the café. There’s a good makeshift swing for supervised kids aged 4+. And kids will enjoy scampering along the allotment paths. You’re also a stone’s throw from one of Edinburgh’s best playgrounds, on Leith Links.
4. Patina Bakery & vicinity
If good food and scenery make your mood and you can bring a scooter/bike, perfect! Edinburgh Park Central Tram stop feels like the middle of nowhere. There’s a spacious, smooth-floored expanse in front of the bakery, and also a tiny but varied (and unusual) play area. So I tend to let my daughter loose on her scooter and in the playground, watching her while I order. You’ll find plenty of sheltered seating outside, so you can relax with your eyes on your child and the Pentlands beyond.
5. Supermarkets (for the ‘fridge’ effect)
When I’m low on battery, I head to the nearest posh supermarket. Waitrose and M&S are both ideal. My 5-year-old loves to be plonked in a trolley, from where she can bark orders. So, on hot Sundays after swimming, we’ll take an M&S (Princes Street) picnic to St Andrew’s Square and sit under a tree. Then climb the lion. (Spotting a theme here!?)