West Port Community Garden

West Port Community Garden was originally part of the vision of Patrick Geddes to create open spaces in Edinburgh's Old Town. The garden, which opened in 1910 to provide green space amidst the slums around the Grassmarket, was designed by his daughter Norah Geddes who was deeply committed to it as a social project. At the time, the West Port was a cavernous street of soot-blackened tenements running uphill from the Grassmarket. The aim was for local children to experience the natural world through play and gardening.

In 2013, the garden came into the hands of the local residents' association (GRASS) and since then it has been maintained by volunteers. The garden is steeply terraced and features a large variety of mature trees. For residents and passers-by, this beautiful green space has therapeutic qualities. It also boosts local biodiversity and helps to mitigate urban pollution.

This year we are celebrating its 10th year in community hands. We are fundraising to improve the amenity of the garden. Everything we receive in donations will be used in the following ways:

The project is non-profit making. It exists for the benefit of the local community, garden volunteers and anyone who wishes to enjoy this green oasis. Any donation, however small, will be greatly appreciated.