From rugged hill climbs with sweeping views to gentle woodland and waterside trails, Edinburgh and the surrounding Lothians offer some of the best walking in Scotland. Whether you’re heading out for a short afternoon wander or a full day on your feet, these routes showcase the variety of landscapes on the city’s doorstep - coast, countryside, hills and historic landmarks.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best walks around Edinburgh, grouped by area, with routes to suit all abilities and seasons, and links to maps.
Key: 🟢-Easy 🟡-Moderate 🔴-Challenging
East Lothian Walks
John Muir Way – East Lothian Sections:
Section 1 - Preston Pans to North Berwick
34kms - 9hrs - 🟡
Section 2 - North Berwick to Dunbar
16kms - 5hrs - 🟡
The John Muir Way runs coast to coast across Scotland, and the East Lothian stretches are some of the most scenic. Expect open farmland, woodland paths and wide coastal views - ideal for steady mileage without technical terrain. It’s a brilliant choice year-round, especially in spring when the fields and hedgerows come alive.
North Berwick & The Law Walk
3kms one way - 2hrs one way - 🟡
A classic East Lothian route combining seaside charm with a short but rewarding hill climb. The walk takes you through North Berwick before ascending North Berwick Law, where you’re rewarded with panoramic views across the Firth of Forth. Windproof layers are a must up top, even on calm days.
Pencaitland Railway Walk
10.5kms - 3hrs - 🟢
Following a former railway line, this is an easy, largely flat walk ideal for relaxed outings. The wide paths and gentle gradients make it accessible in all seasons, though waterproof footwear is handy after wet weather.
Priestlaw Hill Circular from Whiteadder Reservoir
11kms - 4hrs - 🟡
Starting at Whiteadder Reservoir. A quieter, more remote-feeling walk that rewards effort with open views and peaceful surroundings. Priestlaw Hill isn’t technical, but it’s exposed - ideal for testing breathable layers and sturdy boots, especially outside summer months.
West Lothian Walks
Blackness Castle Walk
6.5kms - 2hrs - 🟢
One of the most atmospheric walks near Edinburgh. Starting in the village of Blackness, this coastal route offers dramatic views across the Forth, with the imposing Blackness Castle as a focal point. Expect breezy conditions and muddy sections after rain.
Witchcraig Wood
4kms - 1.5hrs - 🟢
Starting at The Scottish Korean War Memorial. A lesser-known woodland walk offering a calm escape into nature. The paths weave through mixed woodland and are particularly lovely in autumn. Grippy footwear is useful here, as leaf cover can make paths slippery.
Pentland Hills Regional Park
🔴
A favourite with locals and visitors alike, the Pentlands offer countless route options, from gentle valley walks to challenging hill days. Weather can change quickly, so proper hill kit is essential even for shorter walks.
Winchburgh Canal Walk
10kms - 3hrs - 🟢
Starting in Winchburgh. Flat, scenic and ideal for a slower pace, this canal-side walk is perfect for relaxed weekends or evening strolls. It’s an easy route that works well year-round, especially with insulated layers during colder months.
Midlothian Walks
Vogrie Country Park
🟢
A well-maintained park with woodland trails, open spaces and café stops. Vogrie is great for families or anyone looking for a low-effort walk with varied scenery.
Glencorse View and Castlelaw
3.5kms -1.5hrs - 🟡
circuit from Flotterstone, with gentle climbs, woodland paths, and panoramic views over Glencorse Reservoir. Optional detour to Castlelaw Fort adds history and extra scenery. Mostly easy terrain, muddy after rain
Rosslyn Chapel & Roslin Glen
4.25kms - 2hrs - 🟢
Steeped in history and atmosphere, this walk takes you from the iconic Rosslyn Chapel into the wooded gorge of Roslin Glen. Expect uneven paths and muddy sections — classic Scottish woodland walking.
Penicuik Paper Trail
6kms -2hrs - 🟢
A fascinating walk that blends industrial history with riverside scenery. The Paper Trail follows the River North Esk and passes old mill sites, making it an engaging route for history lovers.
Edinburgh City Walks
Arthur’s Seat & Holyrood Park Circular
4.75kms - 2.5hrs - 🟡
Edinburgh’s most iconic walk. This circular route around Holyrood Park includes dramatic volcanic scenery and sweeping city views. While popular, it still feels wild in places - especially early in the morning or midweek.
Water of Leith Walkway
12.2kms -2hrs - 🟢
Running through the heart of the city, this long-distance urban trail follows the river from Balerno to Leith. You can tackle it in sections, making it one of the most flexible walks around Edinburgh.
Blackford Hill Circular Walk
4.25kms -1.5hrs - 🟡
A short but rewarding walk with one of the best viewpoints in the city. Blackford Hill is ideal for a quick escape, offering views across Edinburgh to the Pentlands and beyond.
Walking Around Edinburgh: What to Wear
Edinburgh and the Lothians are known for changeable weather, even on short walks.
Waterproof jackets, breathable layers and supportive walking boots make all the difference, whether you’re on a coastal path in East Lothian or climbing Arthur’s Seat into the wind.
At ArdMoor, we stock walking and outdoor clothing built for British conditions, designed to keep you comfortable on everything from muddy woodland trails to exposed hill walks.