My favourite place in Edinburgh (Recommended)

Pros Edinburgh Botanic Gardens is the jewel in Edinburgh's crown - a gorgeous space filled with ever-changing life and colour and stuffed to the brim with hidden delights and friendly squirrels! Every visit we make, we find something new to see or do, and as a keen photographer there's always at least one good shot there!

Top tips - take a camera, a bag of nuts (the squirrels aren't keen on the seeds you can buy in the shop, but adore any nuts!) and even if you can't afford to tour the main Glasshouse area, you can go round the reception and "temperate area" for free - and both are well worth seeing!

Cons As someone else has noted, the cafe really lets the Botanics down. Although the food itself is good (especially the cakes!), the service is terrible and the pricing is astronomical. Also, should you happen to get there after lunchtime, you're limited to snacks only, which isn't ideal. Take a packed lunch if you can, but if not have someone else grab a bench outside while you queue... and queue... and queue!

Great way to spend a day (Recommended)

Pros It's free to get in, there is lots to see, and lots of different walks to take. It is normally big enough that it doesn't feel too crowded, even in the middle of summer. The cafe has a lovely view over Edinburgh

Cons Cafe food is expensive - best to take your own and have a picnic

Great family day out (Recommended)

Pros This is a great place to take the kids at any time of the year as there is always something different to see as you stroll about the large gardens. It is hugely popular with all ages and always seems very spacious, no matter how many people are there.
The restaurant is good as well if a bit cluttered and the shop is full of nicely quirky objects.
Good access via public transport as well.

Cons None that I can think of.