{Edinburgh} Merchiston Park Playground
We ticked off another playground in our ‘how many different playgrounds can we visit this year’ quest yesterday. It’s actually one we stop at quite a lot, as it’s right next to where the Beaver Scouts sometimes meet when they have meetings outside. It’s officially called Harrison Park East, but many folks refer to it as Merchiston Park as it’s in Merchiston and right next to North Merchiston Club. This playground holds my 7 year old’s interest more than the 11 year old, as the multi-play unit isn’t very high and neither are the slides. There are regular swings though as well as toddler swings, and they both love the large spinning basket. It’s probably their favourite feature.
Situated right next to the Union Canal, this playground is a perfect stop-off for canal walks. There’s also toilets and a cafe in the adjacent Merchiston Club, though the opening times can vary so it’s best to check in advance via their website. Right next to the playground is a wee community garden, which has some more seating including a picnic table. And, of course, there the whole of the rest of the park to run around in. All in all, this definitely gets a thumbs up from us.
Gallery
Playground Stats
Official name: Harrison Park East
Also known as: Merchiston Park
Location: West Bryson Road, Merchiston, Edinburgh
Map coordinates: 55.93659, -3.22396
Best for: Toddlers, Juniors
Ground cover: Rubber
Rating: Thumbs Up
Play Equipment
- Slide
- Multi-play unit with net, climbing features, activity boards and curved slide
- See-saw
- Spring rocker
- Spinning basket
- Swings
- Toddler swings
Facilities
- Benches
- Adjacent Community Garden with picnic bench
- Adjacent cafe with toilets and refreshments
- Large park to run around in
- Nearby canal walks
How to get there
Harrison Park West/ Merchiston Park is located next to the Union Canal, between Harrison Road and West Bryson Road. There are several bus routes that lead here, all within 5 minutes walk.
Closest Bus Stops
No. 34, 35 Lothian Bus: Angle Park Terrace
No. 4, 34, 35, 44 Lothian Bus: St Michaels Church
No. 10, 27 Lothian Bus: Polwarth Parish Church
Check out our A to Z map of public playgrounds in Edinburgh to plan your next playground visit, and let us know your favourites that you think we should check out in the comments below!
(edited 03/05/22 to add new photos)
