The best walks and hikes around Harlaw Reservoir
4.6
(1471)
14,149
hikers
435
hikes
Hikes around Harlaw Reservoir explore the area at the foot of the Pentland Hills near Edinburgh. The landscape is characterized by the open water of the reservoir, surrounding mixed woodland, and the rolling hills of the greater Pentland Hills Regional Park. The network of trails includes flat, accessible paths around the water as well as more challenging routes that ascend into the nearby hills.
Best hiking trails around Harlaw Reservoir
- The most popular hiking route is Harlaw Reservoir & Threipmuirโฆ
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.5
(18)
185
hikers
4.42km
01:09
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(8)
44
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.5
(17)
187
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(9)
232
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(8)
108
hikers
20.3km
06:44
680m
680m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Stunning views. Path gets very gravelly so care needed if you are less experienced off-road
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After the peaks it's all flat terrain and definitely more busy on a dry day. Walk the way back after the last peak if you prefer the challenge of it.
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Harlaw Reservoir is a popular spot for outdoor activities including walking, fishing, and wildlife watching. One of the highlights is a small embankment on the far side of the reservoir which offers stunning views of Threipmuir Reservoir. On weekends visitors you can get your hands on some homemade crepes from a local van parked near the Harlaw House Visitor Centre.
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Nestled amongst the Pentland Hills, Glencorse Reservoir is incredibly picturesque. It was built between 1820 and 1824 to provide water to mills in the area and supply drinking water to Edinburgh. Today, the reservoir still supplies water to 450,000 people. The reservoir was created by constructing a dam, which is 77 feet (23.5 m) at its highest point.
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Pretty steep uphill from Threipmuir to Harlaw. Easy enough to walk up/down.
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Bit of gravel track hidden away from main paths around reservoirs. Note that the track it connects to (to Harlaw) is steep and rocky, and is tricky to ride on a gravel bike (at least without very low gears and chunky tyres), but can easily be walked up. The track is narrow and runs very close to the reservoir, so perhaps best avoided after heavy rain.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the walking routes around Harlaw Reservoir suitable for families with prams?
Yes, many of the paths are family-friendly. The main trail around Harlaw Reservoir is generally flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for all-terrain prams. A particularly good option is the Harlaw Reservoir loop from Lennox Tower, which is an easy walk with minimal elevation change.
Can I bring my dog for a walk at Harlaw Reservoir?
Yes, Harlaw Reservoir is a popular spot for dog walking. The paths around the water and through the woodlands offer great spaces for dogs to explore. Please keep your dog under control, especially near wildlife and livestock in the wider Pentland Hills Regional Park.
How do I get to Harlaw Reservoir from Edinburgh using public transport?
You can take a bus from Edinburgh city centre towards Balerno. From the bus stop in Balerno, it's a pleasant walk up to the reservoir. Be sure to check the latest bus schedules for the most convenient route.
Is there parking available at Harlaw Reservoir?
Yes, there is a car park at Harlaw Reservoir. However, it is quite popular and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and sunny days. It's recommended to arrive early to secure a space.
What are the paths and trail conditions like?
The trails vary. Around the reservoir itself, you'll find mostly flat, well-surfaced paths suitable for all abilities. As you venture further into the Pentland Hills, the paths become more rugged and can be muddy after rain, with steeper inclines. Proper hiking footwear is recommended for any routes heading into the hills.
Are there any easy circular walks available?
Absolutely. The area is perfect for easy circular hikes. A great choice is the Harlaw Reservoir & Threipmuir Reservoir loop, which combines two scenic reservoirs into one relatively flat and manageable walk.
Are there more challenging, longer hikes starting from the reservoir?
Yes, Harlaw Reservoir is an excellent starting point for more strenuous treks into the Pentland Hills. For a full day of hiking with significant elevation gain and rewarding views, consider the Scald Law & Glencorse Reservoir loop. This difficult route is for experienced hikers.
What kind of wildlife might I see around Harlaw Reservoir?
The reservoir and its surrounding woodlands are rich in wildlife. Birdwatchers can often spot swans, ducks, cormorants, and greylag geese on the water. The woods are home to grey squirrels and various small birds like goldcrests. Keep an eye out as you walk the trails.
Are there any cafes or pubs nearby for after a hike?
While there are no cafes directly at the reservoir, the nearby village of Balerno has several options for refreshments. You'll find pubs and cafes there to relax in after your walk. The Harlaw House Visitor Centre on-site has toilet facilities but does not serve food.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the Harlaw Reservoir area?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning scenery that combines water, woodland, and hills. The accessibility from Edinburgh and the variety of trails, from easy loch-side strolls to challenging hill climbs, are also major highlights.
How many hiking trails are there to choose from?
There is a wide variety of options for all skill levels. You can explore over 400 routes in the Harlaw Reservoir area, ranging from easy, family-friendly walks to difficult, full-day hikes in the Pentland Hills.
Can I go swimming or paddleboarding in the reservoir?
Harlaw Reservoir is actively managed for angling and is regularly stocked with trout. While other water activities may be possible, it is essential to be mindful of the anglers. It is recommended to liaise with the fishery managers to ensure responsible access for activities like swimming or paddleboarding.
Most popular routes around Harlaw Reservoir
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