RIE staff wellbeing courtyard

NHS Lothian Charity @ Edinburgh BioQuarter

Find out about the about green health opportunities across the BioQuarter

The BioQuarter is home to the the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Royal Hospital for Children and Young People and the Department of Clinical Neurosciences (DCN). This 167-acre site is connected to some of the best greenspaces in Edinburgh.

Our activities

Scientific research shows that connecting with nature isn’t just “nice to have”—it’s a powerful boost for your body and mind. Taking part in our activities and spending time in greenspaces can help:

  • Calm the Mind: Nature’s presence naturally lowers stress and eases anxiety.
  • Brighten Your Day: Natural light is a proven mood-booster and helps regulate sleep.
  • Strengthen Your Body: Being outdoors supports your immune system and physical recovery.
  • Sharpen Your Focus: A short walk can clear mental “fog” and improve concentration.

Get involved

Lou walking with a staff member

What’s on

Find out what’s on at the Bioquarter this month. Led by our Nature Rehabilitation Ranger, these activities bridge clinical care with the outdoors to help boost staff well being.
What’s on now
Rehabilitation Ranger Lou Evans

Meet the Ranger

Our Nature Rehabilitation Ranger, Lou Evans, works with patients and staff on site two days a week to promote and support positive health and wellbeing through nature-based activities and interventions.
Contact me
free agent volunteers at RIE

Latest news

Want to see how our outdoor spaces are transforming? Check out Lou’s seasonal round-ups to read stories, track our progress, and discover all the creative ways patients, staff, and volunteers are getting involved.
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A place for people and wildlife

Edinburgh BioQuarter’s natural spaces support both wildlife and wellbeing. The Burdiehouse Burn Local Wildlife Site flows through the campus and the large areas of woodlands and trees are scattered through the landscape. There is a large number of courtyard gardens and green rooves bring nature close to people. The BioQuarter is also located directly next to Little France Park Local Nature Reserve. Together, these connected green spaces preserve local biodiversity while providing outdoor areas for patients, staff, and visitors.

Find out more

Royal Infirmary Edinburgh outside hospital

Greenspace and Biodiversity Projects

We are working to protect and improve our grounds to ensure they remain a vibrant haven for both people and wildlife and help us tackle climate change.
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member of staff sitting in the staff wellbeing courtyard at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh

Staff Wellbeing Courtyard

Opened in September 2025, this beautifully reimagined space is designed to support staff wellbeing by bringing nature closer to the workplace.
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RIE Panda Courtyard bunting

Ria’s Story

At just 23-years-old, Ria O’Hanlan found herself in hospital fighting for her life. The occupational therapy student went from experiencing back pain, to collapsing on the floor and being diagnosed with an aortic aneurism, her lungs filled with blood. The game-changer came with a visit to the hospital garden, at the insistence of one of the nurses.
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