The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Corstorphine

There are 17 family-friendly hiking trails around Corstorphine, with 8 of them rated as easy and 9 as moderate. These routes are designed to be enjoyable for all ages and fitness levels.

The trails primarily traverse the extensive mature broad-leaved woodlands of Corstorphine Hill, featuring trees like oak, birch, and beech. You'll also find sections of gorse and grassland on the lower slopes. While generally gentle, some routes may include slight elevation changes, offering varied and engaging landscapes for families.

Yes, many of the family-friendly routes are circular, making them convenient for a day out. For example, the Hilltop at Edinburgh Zoo – St Anne's Church loop from Murrayfield Stadium and the Zoom loop from Corstorphine are excellent circular options that allow you to start and finish in the same location.

Corstorphine Hill offers a mix of natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can explore the Corstorphine Hill Tower (Clermiston Tower), a gothic folly with panoramic views. Parts of the trails run alongside Edinburgh Zoo, occasionally offering glimpses of animals. The restored Walled Garden at Hillwood House is also a peaceful spot to visit. Don't miss the various viewpoints, like the "Rest and Be Thankful," for stunning vistas across Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth.

Corstorphine Hill is a Local Nature Reserve and a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for badgers, foxes, rabbits, and bats. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting around 60 different species, including great spotted woodpeckers, tawny owls, kestrels, and buzzards.

Many of the trails are well-suited for young children and toddlers, particularly the 'easy' graded routes. These often feature gentle paths and manageable distances. The Zoom loop from Corstorphine, for instance, has minimal elevation gain, making it a good choice for little legs.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Corstorphine Hill. We encourage responsible dog ownership, which includes keeping dogs under control, especially around wildlife and other hikers, and cleaning up after them to ensure everyone can enjoy the natural environment.

Corstorphine is a well-connected suburb of Edinburgh, making it accessible by public transport. Several bus routes serve the area, with stops conveniently located near various entry points to Corstorphine Hill. For those driving, there are often on-street parking options in the residential areas surrounding the hill, though these can be busy during peak times. Some routes, like the Hilltop at Edinburgh Zoo – St Anne's Church loop, can be accessed from areas like Murrayfield Stadium which may offer more dedicated parking options.

Corstorphine Hill offers beauty throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and fresh greenery, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours for extended walks. Even in winter, the woodlands can be magical, though paths might be muddy or icy, so appropriate footwear is essential. Any time is a good time, depending on your preference for scenery and weather.

Yes, Corstorphine High Street, located close to Corstorphine Hill, offers a selection of cafes, bakeries, and local shops where you can grab a snack, a coffee, or a meal before or after your hike. There are also pubs in the vicinity for a more substantial meal.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, the panoramic views from Corstorphine Hill, and the accessibility of the trails for families. The diverse natural features and the chance to spot wildlife are also frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects.