10 best walks in and around Edinburgh
When city life gets a little too fast-paced, take time out to slow things down by heading to the countryside for a lovely walk. Luckily, you don’t need to go far to experience incredible views and relaxing surrounds. We’re naturally blessed here in Edinburgh with an abundance of scenic coastlines and country walking routes right on our doorstep so get out there and enjoy it with a bracing walk. Here are a few of our favourite walks in and around the capital.
Gullane to North Berwick: 10km linear
Enjoy the big skies and long sandy beaches of East Lothian. Take the number 124 First Bus to Gullane Main Street (it leaves from Haymarket or North David Street and takes one hour). Head for the beach, turn right and walk around the coast towards North Berwick. There are numerous paths, either long the shore or just inland, just keep the sea to your left and it should take you about three hours. Return by bus or train.
Inchcolm Island, Firth of Forth: 3km circular
Start with a cruise in the Firth of Forth with superb views of the bridges, the coast of Fife and a fantasti medieval monastery on the island. There are numerous path around the island where you can watch seabirds and seals. Take the ferry from South Queensferry (number 43 First Bus to Dalmeny station and walk down to the jetty opposite Hawes Inn). Ferries run Easter to October, see www.maidoftheforth.co.uk for crossing times.
The Bridge Inn, Ratho: 9 miles
Kick off your Edinburgh walk at the Union Canal in Fountainbridge. The canal towpath runs all the way from the bustling city centre, through the outskirts of Edinburgh, over the Scott Russell viaduct, and into the picturesque village of Ratho. The traffic-free route takes in eight miles of tree-lined towpath, where you can soak up the tranquillity, aside from the fleeting company of joggers, cyclists and the odd passing boat. You'll find the quaint Bridge Inn at the end of your travels where you can enjoy some well-earned refreshments.
Our very own Carrie Mitchell took own this scenic walk, so if you want an idea of what you're in for, check it out here.
Cross the Forth Road Bridge: 10km linear
Take the train to Dalmeny then follow paths to the bridge. As you walk across the bridge take the time to enjoy the spectacular views in each direction – the Fife coast, South Queensferry, and the Firth of Forth. At the north end of the bridge take steps down to the road and head towards the railway bridge. Go under the bridge, past Deep Sea World and follow the Fife Coastal Path around the coast. When you meet the main road, turn right into Inverkeithing and take the train back.
Slateford to Colinton via Colinton Dell: 6km circular
A shady woodland walk through a well-loved beauty spot in the city, full of wildlife. Start at the Water of Leith visitor centre (number 34 or 44 Lothian Bus) and follow the river path away from the city, crossing over the river and back a few times to emerge in Colinton Village. Cross the river on Bridge Road and then take the old railway cycle path towards Slateford on the other side of the river. When the path meets the Union Canal, turn right and take the towpath towards the city. Cross Slateford Aqueduct and return to the start point.
Roslin Glen, Midlothian: Various routes
Romantic ruins and a wooden glen are the attractions here, not to mention the 15th century Roslin Chapel where this walk begins. Take the number 15 Lothian Bus then follow the path from the chapel down to Roslin Castle, which dates from 1304. Follow riverside paths along the River North Esk in either direction to enjoy the wildlife and peaceful setting.
Corstorphine Hill: Various routes
There are numerous paths around this hill so enjoy getting lost while you glimpse views of the city. Take the number 12, 26 or 31 Lothian Bus to Edinburgh Zoo then walk up Kaimes Road to the west of the zoo and turn right. Head generally northwards through the woodland to reach Queensferry Road at Davidson’s Mains and return to the city from there, or cross over the hill eastwards to reach Ravelston Dykes. From here, continue with an extra hidden woodland walk, follow a path through Mary Erskine school grounds, skirting the school buildings to the north, which leads to Queensferry Road at Craigleith.
Behind Arthur’s Seat: 4km circular
Enjoy the quiet side of the city with a route to the Duddingston Loch nature reserve and a return giving great views to the south from Queen’s Drive. Start at the Engine Shed Café, St Leonards Lane, and follow the cycle path through the houses to the Innocent Railway tunnel. Go through the tunnel and continue along the path until you reach Duddingston Road. Turn left and go into Duddingston village, then turn left to the loch. Steps lead from the car park up to the upper Queen’s Drive so take this route back towards your start point.
Pentland Hills: 10km linear
This is a serious walk with lots of steep ups and downs. You will need walking boots, waterproof clothing, food and a map. The Pentlands offer a wonderful opportunity to really stretch the legs and breath in fresh air just outside the city. There are many paths across the hills and this route crosses from one side to the other, with fabulous views over the city and surrounding area. There are regular buses at either end, so start by taking the number 44 Lothian Bus to Balerno village. Walk up Harlaw Road and once you reach the car park bear east towards Harbour Hill. Skirt around this hill and up Capelaw Hill beyond it, above Bonaly reservoir, then follow the ridge up Allermuir Hill and Caerketton Hill. You will be above the Hillend ski centre so head down to the main road and catch the number 4 Lothian Bus back to the city.
Blackford Hill: 9km
One of Edinburgh's seven hills, offering amazing views and general vistas that evoke feelings of delight. It's a fairly easy-going walk (despite being quite long), only thing is, it can get a bit muddy so maybe don't tackle it in your flip-flops. To get there, take a bus to Comiston Road and get off by the church near the junction with Braidburn Terrace. Turn right onto Braid Road and the walk itself then begins on a path on the left into the wooded glen of the Hermitage of Braid.
Words: Helen Todd of Ramblers Scotland