The best walks and hikes around West Water Reservoir

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around West Water Reservoir. However, the area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) with important bird populations and surrounding farmland with livestock. You should keep your dog on a lead, especially during bird nesting season (spring/early summer) and when near sheep.

There is limited parking available near the reservoir, particularly at the main access points. Popular starting points, like those near West Linton, can fill up quickly on weekends. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot. Please park considerately and do not block access for local residents or farm vehicles.

Reaching the trailheads for West Water Reservoir by public transport is challenging due to its rural location. The most convenient way to access the area is by car. The nearest village with some bus services is West Linton, but you would still have a considerable walk to reach the main reservoir trails.

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. While many trails involve upland moorland, you can find gentler paths. The Mount Maw Summit – Baddinsgill Reservoir loop from Pentland Hills is a relatively short route at 5.4 km. For a simpler walk, the path from West Linton towards the reservoir offers a straightforward and scenic outing.

The best time to visit for wildlife, specifically to see the massive roost of pink-footed geese, is during the autumn and winter months. The reservoir is an internationally important wetland (Ramsar site), and tens of thousands of geese use it as a roost during this period, creating a spectacular natural event.

For a more demanding day out, the Mount Maw, The Mount & East Cairn Hill loop is a great choice. This 13 km hike involves nearly 400 meters of ascent and crosses several summits in the Pentland Hills, offering expansive views over the surrounding landscape.

The landscape is defined by open upland moorland, rolling hills, and the serene waters of the reservoirs. You'll experience a sense of tranquility and expansive views characteristic of the Scottish Borders. Trails often pass historic stone walls and patches of woodland like Catwalk Den Wood, adding variety to the scenery.

Yes, circular routes are very popular here. Many trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. A good example is the Baddingshill Farm Stone Walls – Baddinsgill Reservoir loop from West Linton, which provides a varied 10 km circuit through the heart of the region.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning reservoir views, the peaceful atmosphere of the moorlands, and the variety of trails available. The sense of remoteness, despite being relatively close to Edinburgh, is a frequently mentioned highlight.

The immediate area around the reservoir is undeveloped, so you won't find facilities directly on the trails. The nearby village of West Linton has several pubs, cafes, and local amenities where you can get refreshments before or after your hike.

Beyond being an artificial reservoir, the area has a deeper history. During the reservoir's creation, erosion uncovered an Early Bronze Age flat cist cemetery. Archaeological excavations revealed several ancient burial sites, indicating human presence in this landscape for thousands of years.