WITH the heatwave in full swing and highs of 32C recorded in Scotland over the last week, many of us will be hiding indoors with the fan on full blast.
If you do feel like catching some rays on a city trip, though, then we've rounded up some of the best sunbathing spots in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Glasgow
Kelvingrove Park
West End residents and visitors alike flock to Kelvingrove Park to enjoy the urban haven for wildlife. Situated along the river Kelvin, the park hosts a fountain, a duck pond, a skate park and 85 acres of land to explore. Its central location makes it the ideal spot to sit in the sun.
Park Circus
Just a few yards away from Kelvingrove Park, Park Circus offers a quieter, tranquil space to enjoy the weather. It also boasts one of the best views of the city if you take a seat overlooking the park, south towards the river.
The Botanic Gardens
Staying in the West End, if you walk along the Kelvin Walkway and up the stairs, you will find yourself in The Botanic Gardens. This scenic space features several glasshouses, a koi pond, a library and plenty of grassy space for you to enjoy. The gardens close at dusk so get down early and find a peaceful spot to enjoy the heat.
Queens Park
The Southside is home to a number of green spaces, but Queen's Park remains the focal point for locals to visit. A short stroll from Queen's Park station, this green space holds a regular farmers' market, contains a range of sporting and leisure activities and a small nature pond. It stays busy all year round, but the 148-acre park has plenty of space to grab a seat.
Glasgow Green
The Green is the oldest of the city's parks and home to TRNSMT each year, Scotland’s largest outdoor music festival. Within walking distance from the city centre in the East End on the north bank of the River Clyde, the park has a handful of monuments, a fountain and a suspension bridge to visit while you sun yourself.
Edinburgh
Leith Links
In the North of Edinburgh in the heart of Leith, Leith Links is a flat expanse of grass surrounded by trees and home to sporting pitches. The largest green space in the area, locals swarm to the park to top up their tans and have a picnic.
Inverleith Park
Also in the North but closer to the city centre, adjacent to the botanic gardens, Inverleith Park is one of Edinburgh’s largest and holds three football, four rugby and six seven-a-side pitches, a cricket square, petanque area and a children’s playground. You can sit by the pond and watch the wildlife or take a walk through the allotments.
Holyrood Park
The hills of Holyrood Park create a skyline like no other. If you’re feeling adventurous why not climb Arthur’s Seat? Yes, the hill is steep, but the views make it worthwhile! If you fancy something less physically strenuous, go geese-spotting at Duddingston Loch, or visit the ruins of St Anthony's Chapel.
St Mark's Park
This park is found in Powderhall, along a bend in the Water of Leith, and is a popular area for spotting frogs and tadpoles. Looking into the river you can see a Gormley "standing man" statue, explore the disused railway line or simply sit on the grassy hill and enjoy the stunning views of the city.
Roseburn Park
Also running along the Water of Leith close to Murrayfield Stadium in the west of the city is Roseburn Park. This green space offers a quiet area to rest in the sun or explore two easy hiking trails ideal for the whole family.
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