Campsites near Edinburgh, Midlothian

Where to Go

On the West Coast

A 15-minute drive northwest of the city centre takes you to the shores of the Firth of Forth. Just a stone’s throw from the waterfront are plenty of pitches for motorhomes and caravans, as well as a few tent pitches. From here you can visit the tidal island of Cramond (check tide times first), have a stroll on Cramond Beach, or head out on a sightseeing cruise from Queensferry.

On the East Coast

Heading east of Edinburgh’s city centre, a string of lovely beaches line the coast, from the popular Portobello and Musselburgh to the less-visited Gullane. The coastline takes you all the way to the charming town of North Berwick, from where campers can take boat trips to the Isle of May puffin colony and the gannet colony on the Bass Rock. Coastal holiday parks offer views over the Firth of Forth, some with extra perks like golf courses and heated indoor swimming pools to go along with hardstanding pitches for tourers and motorhomes, plus static caravans to rent.

Inland

Just south of the city, the sprawling Pentland Hills Regional Park offers a taste of the great outdoors on Edinburgh’s doorstep. It has more than 62 miles (100 kilometres) of waymarked paths and is a great place for walking, cycling, and horse riding. Area caravan and camping parks have space for tents, motorhomes, campervans, and caravans on grass and hardstanding pitches. Wigwam glamping pods are also available.

When to Go

Edinburgh is a year-round destination, but the weather is most pleasant between May and September. July and August can get uncomfortably crowded with tourists, especially during the Edinburgh festivals, when you may even find yourself shoulder to shoulder with other visitors on the Royal Mile and surrounding streets. Hogmanay (the 4-day-long New Year’s celebration) is also a busy time. To enjoy the city in relative peace, aim for May or late September. The winter months are typically cold, wet, and dark with sunset around 3:30pm in December.

Know Before You Go

• Some private area campsites are seasonal, so check opening dates before travelling.
• Weather in Scotland is changeable, even in summer. Be prepared with warm, waterproof clothing.
• Edinburgh is well-connected to the rest of Scotland (and England) by rail and bus. The city is very walkable, although there is a good city bus (and less useful tram) system as well.
• If arriving in Edinburgh by air, consider taking the frequent, 24-hour bus service that connects the airport to the city centre within 30 minutes.
• You’ll find anything you need in Edinburgh’s shops. Start on Princes Street for essentials.