The best walks and hikes around Edinburgh
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Hikes around Edinburgh are defined by a unique landscape where extinct volcanic hills rise directly from the urban center. The city is bordered by the Firth of Forth to the north, offering coastal paths, and the expansive Pentland Hills Regional Park to the south, providing more rugged, rolling terrain. This combination of city-based hillwalking, riverside paths like the Water of Leith Walkway, and accessible countryside creates a diverse network of trails.
Best hiking trails around Edinburgh
- The most popular hiking route is Arthur's Seat & Salisbury Crags loop from Holyrood, a 2.4 mile (3.8 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to complete. This hike ascends an extinct volcano in the city center, providing 360-degree views over Edinburgh.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Caerketton Hill & Allermuir Hill loop from Lothianburn — Pentland Hills, a moderate 3.5 mile (5.7 km) path. This route offers a classic Pentland Hills experience with ascents to prominent peaks and views back towards the city.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Stockbridge to Dean Village loop, a 4.7 mile (7.5 km) trail leading through the historic Dean Village along the Water of Leith, often completed in about 2 hours.
- Hiking around Edinburgh is defined by city-center volcanic hills, rolling countryside in the Pentland Hills, and tranquil riverside walkways. The trail network includes short, accessible routes within the city as well as more challenging hikes in the nearby regional park.
- The routes in Edinburgh are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,500 reviews. More than 35,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Edinburgh's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 10, 2026
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219
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3.80km
01:30
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
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705
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
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393
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8.29km
02:18
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
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340
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5.68km
02:00
310m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
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332
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16.3km
04:27
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
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323
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9.80km
02:48
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
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111
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3.31km
00:53
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
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134
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7.49km
02:00
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
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147
hikers
13.8km
04:22
440m
440m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
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194
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4.42km
01:09
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Edinburgh
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Tips from the Community
Nice view of the city and the Firth of Forth when the weather is clear.
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The Salisbury Crags offer a beautiful view of Edinburgh and the surrounding area, as well as the Firth of Forth.
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This castle stands on one of the oldest inhabited sites in Edinburgh – archaeologists have determined that people inhabited this area as early as the 2nd century AD. However, the castle you see here was only built a millennium later. It began in 1124 as the royal residence of David I, King of Scotland. It fulfilled that role until 1633, when it was converted into a military barracks, where soldiers slept in the place where the royal family used to live. Edinburgh Castle was involved in various conflicts, including the Scottish Wars of Independence. In total, the castle has undergone 26 sieges, making it the most besieged location in Scotland and one of the most attacked locations in the world. (Free Tours by Foot)
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The church was built in 1846-1847 in an early English Gothic style, to a design by architect John Henderson. The stones for the building came from the palace on the Royal Mile of Mary of Guise, the 16th-century regent of Scotland. The layout was inspired by reforms in Anglican worship that arose from the Oxford Movement. (Wikipedia)
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Victoria Street in Edinburgh is known for its unique, curved, cobbled design, the vibrant rainbow-coloured shop fronts, and the characteristic two-storey layout with an upper terrace. The street, built between 1829 and 1834, is believed by many to have been the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books. (Facebook)
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Greyfriars Bobby was a Skye Terrier from 19th century Edinburgh. He became famous because, according to legend, he guarded the grave of his owner in Greyfriars Kirkyard for fourteen years. Bobby himself died on January 14, 1872. The story is still very well known in Scotland. Books and films have been made about it, and a statue of Greyfriars Bobby is a popular attraction in Edinburgh. (Wikipedia)
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Holyrood is located at the end of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh and has been Scotland's principal royal residence since the 16th century. The palace serves as a venue for state occasions and official entertaining. The palace adjoins Holyrood Abbey and the gardens lie within Holyrood Park. The King's Gallery was created from existing buildings near the west entrance to the palace and opened in 2002 to display works of art from the Royal Collection. An adult admission ticket costs £26.00 (£22.00 if booked online in advance).
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Art market in a former church
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More Information
Edinburgh’s diverse landscapes
Edinburgh sits in a dramatic landscape thanks to its volcanic history. The famous Seven Hills provide some of the best hiking trails in Edinburgh with fantastic views of the old and new city which, together, form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Salisbury Crags are a classic example of Edinburgh’s impressive geology and can be found in Holyrood Park near Arthur’s Seat. These towering cliffs are around 325 million years old and were created during a volcanic eruption. Well, we did say walks in Edinburgh could be dramatic.
Glacial erosion has created the incredible hill and valley structure of Edinburgh and you can easily rack up the miles without ever leaving the city limits. Exploring just a little further afield will take you to even more spectacular places.
Exploring Edinburgh’s stunning surroundings
The Pentland Hills are immediately south of Edinburgh and if you’re after sweeping views of the city, the Firth of Forth and north across the river mouth, this area is the place to be. This regional park is covered in trails that wind up and down the hills, giving you some fantastic hikes in the Edinburgh area.
The city centre is only a stone’s throw from the protected Firth too, sheltered from the North Sea with plenty of beaches to reward you on your walks. Cramond Beach is a wonderful place for a hike and the estuarine area looks completely different depending on what the tide’s up to. At low tide, you can walk out to Cramond Island and get a 360° view of the Firth and both sides of the water. If you continue west, you can explore the trails around Hound Point and Mons Hill too.
East of Edinburgh, the coast continues to lure you along its numerous paths. Around Longniddry Beach you won’t be wandering alone by a long shot as this area is rich in birdlife. You’re sure to see wading birds delicately strutting their stuff on the shore and Sandwich terns in the summer, with their distinctive white feathers and black caps.
Hiking in and around Edinburgh allows you to roam at sea level, climb to great heights for the best views and discover all sorts of trails in between.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular places for hiking in and around Edinburgh?
Edinburgh offers several highly-regarded spots for hiking.
Holyrood Park is a local favorite, offering varied paths around the iconic Arthur's Seat. For a true countryside feel just outside the city, the Pentland Hills Regional Park is an expansive area with numerous trails and reservoirs. A quieter but beautiful option is the Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve, known for its lovely riverside and woodland paths. For a different kind of scenery, the River Almond Walkway provides a peaceful waterside trail.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks suitable for children?
Yes, Edinburgh has great options for families. The Harlaw Reservoir & Threipmuir Reservoir loop is a relatively flat and easy walk in the Pentlands, perfect for a family outing. Another excellent choice is a stroll through Holyrood Park, which has wide, accessible paths suitable for all ages.
Can I take my dog on hikes around Edinburgh?
Most trails around Edinburgh are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your dog under control, especially near livestock in areas like the Pentland Hills. Many local walkers enjoy the Braid Hills Trail, which offers wide-open spaces and great views, making it ideal for energetic dogs.
How can I get to the Pentland Hills from Edinburgh city centre by bus?
The Pentland Hills are accessible via public transport. Lothian Buses run services to various starting points. For example, you can take a bus towards the Hillend Snowsports Centre to access trails like the Caerketton Hill & Allermuir Hill loop. Routes starting from Bonaly are also served by city buses. Always check the latest bus timetables before you travel.
What's a good challenging hike for experienced walkers?
For a more demanding day out, the West & East Kip plus Scald Law loop in the Pentlands offers a significant challenge. This route involves multiple steep ascents to some of the highest peaks in the park, rewarding you with fantastic panoramic views.
Are there any good circular coastal walks near Edinburgh?
Yes, the coastline near Edinburgh is fantastic for walking. While many coastal paths are linear, you can create circular routes by combining them with other trails. A popular option is the walk from South Queensferry to Cramond, which offers stunning views of the Forth Bridges. At low tide, you can even walk out to Cramond Island, but be sure to check tide times carefully to ensure a safe return.
What is the Water of Leith Walkway like?
The Water of Leith Walkway is a tranquil, mostly flat path that follows the river through the city. It offers a peaceful escape from the urban hustle. A particularly scenic section is the walk between Stockbridge and the historic Dean Village, which feels like stepping into a different world with its charming old buildings and lush greenery.
What should I pack for a day hike in the Pentlands?
Scottish weather is famously changeable, even on a nice day. For a hike in the Pentlands, you should always carry waterproof trousers and a jacket, an extra warm layer, sturdy walking boots, and plenty of water and snacks. A map and compass (or a fully charged phone with the komoot app) are also essential, as mobile signal can be unreliable in the hills.
Are there any easy walks right in the city centre?
Absolutely. For a walk that combines history and gentle exercise, the Edinburgh Old Town tour is a great choice. It's an easy walk that takes you past many of the city's most famous landmarks. Another option is a gentle circuit within Holyrood Park on the lower paths if you don't want to climb Arthur's Seat.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Edinburgh?
The trails around Edinburgh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the unique ability to climb a rugged hill like Arthur's Seat right in the city centre and the accessibility of the vast, open landscapes of the Pentland Hills. The well-maintained paths and clear signposting are also frequently mentioned.
What kind of hikes can I expect in the Pentland Hills?
The Pentland Hills offer a wide variety of hikes. You can find gentle, flat walks around the reservoirs, such as the loop from Threipmuir Reservoir, or more strenuous ascents to rolling, windswept peaks with views across the region. The park features over 100km of marked paths through classic Scottish countryside.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in Edinburgh?
You can hike in Edinburgh year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring and summer bring longer daylight hours and blooming wildflowers. Autumn offers beautiful colours, especially in wooded areas like the Hermitage of Braid. Winter hiking can be spectacular on a crisp, clear day, but be prepared for cold, wet, and potentially icy conditions, especially on higher ground.
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