Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Edinburgh, Edinburgh, City of, United Kingdom
1. Arthurs Seat
A volcanic plug offering panoramic views of Edinburgh, this easy-to-reach hiking trail is perfect for a quick city escape.
- Historic Views: Offers unique views of Edinburgh Castle and the city skyline
- Accessibility: Easy-to-reach hiking trail suitable for all skill levels
- Quick Escape: Ideal for a short, scenic hike close to the city center
2. Salisbury Crags
A steep, rugged cliff formation with stunning views of Edinburgh's Old Town and the Firth of Forth.
- Stunning Viewpoints: Provides dramatic clifftop views of Edinburgh's cityscape
- Rock Climbing Opportunities: Offers adventurous rock climbing opportunities for experienced hikers
- Rich Geology: Features a rich geological history, with unique columnar basalt formations
3. Harlaw Hill
A challenging hike that rewards hikers with stunning views of the Pentland Hills and Edinburgh's skyline.
- Challenging Terrain: Features steep, rocky terrain suitable for more experienced hikers
- Pentland Hills Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Pentland Hills and surrounding countryside
- Peaceful Setting: Provides a peaceful, secluded setting away from the city bustle
4. Craigmillar Burn Walk
A peaceful, woodland trail offering a glimpse into Edinburgh's history and wildlife.
- Historical Interest: Passes through the Craigmillar Castle ruins
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities for wildlife spotting, including deer and red squirrels
- Easy Access: Located close to public transportation, making it easily accessible
5. Black Hill and West Kip Circuit
A challenging hike through the Pentland Hills with panoramic views of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth.
- Challenging Terrain: Features steep, rocky terrain suitable for more experienced hikers
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and the Pentland Hills
- Peaceful Setting: Provides a peaceful, secluded setting away from the city bustle
6. Sheriffmuir Hill
A historic battlefield turned hiking trail with stunning views of the Ochil Hills and beyond.
- Historical Significance: Site of the Battle of Sheriffmuir in 1715
- Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of the Ochil Hills and surrounding countryside
- Challenging Terrain: Features steep, rocky terrain suitable for more experienced hikers
7. Cramond Island Trail
A coastal trail leading to a tidal island offering a chance to explore Edinburgh's maritime history.
- Maritime History: Features the remains of a World War II gun battery and other historical structures
- Coastal Scenery: Offers beautiful coastal scenery, including views of the Firth of Forth
- Tidal Island: Accessible at low tide, providing a unique hiking experience
8. Calton Hill
An urban hike offering panoramic views of Edinburgh's cityscape and iconic landmarks.
- Iconic Viewpoints: Offers unique views of Edinburgh's most famous landmarks, such as the Castle and the Scott Monument
- Urban Setting: Located in the heart of Edinburgh, providing a unique urban hiking experience
- Historical Buildings: Features historic buildings like the National Monument and the Observatory
9. Corstorphine Hill
A peaceful, wooded hill offering panoramic views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside.
- Peaceful Setting: Provides a peaceful, secluded setting away from the city bustle
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside
- Historical Interest: Features the ruins of Corstorphine Tower
10. Silverknowes Beach and Duddingston Loch Circuit
A coastal trail offering beautiful views, a chance to spot wildlife, and the opportunity for a refreshing swim.
- Coastal Scenery: Offers stunning coastal scenery, including views of the Firth of Forth
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities for wildlife spotting, including birds and seals
- Swimming Opportunities: Allows for a refreshing swim at Silverknowes Beach
11. Almondell and Calderwood Country Park
A picturesque country park offering peaceful walks through woodland and meadows.
- Peaceful Setting: Provides a peaceful, secluded setting away from the city bustle
- Woodland and Meadows: Features beautiful woodlands and meadows filled with wildflowers
- Historical Interest: Includes the remains of an old mill and a waterwheel
12. Pentland Hills Regional Park
A vast expanse of hills offering challenging hikes and stunning views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside.
- Challenging Terrain: Features steep, rocky terrain suitable for more experienced hikers
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside
- Variety of Trails: Provides a variety of trails catering to hikers of all skill levels
13. Robertside Circuit
A gentle woodland walk offering a glimpse into Edinburgh's history and wildlife.
- Historical Interest: Passes through the ruins of Robertsloch Castle
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities for wildlife spotting, including deer and red squirrels
- Easy Access: Located close to public transportation, making it easily accessible
14. Queensferry Circular Walk
A coastal walk offering stunning views of the Forth Bridges and the Firth of Forth.
- Maritime Scenery: Offers breathtaking maritime scenery, including views of the Forth Bridges
- Historical Interest: Passes through the historic towns of South Queensferry and North Queensferry
- Accessible Distance: A manageable circular walk suitable for hikers of all skill levels
15. Bents Loan Nature Reserve
A peaceful urban nature reserve offering opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
- Urban Setting: Located in the heart of Edinburgh, providing a unique urban hiking experience
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities for wildlife spotting, including birds and butterflies
- Peaceful Setting: Offers a peaceful, secluded setting away from the city bustle