The best walks and hikes around Grange/Prestonfield

Yes, many of the trails in the area are dog-friendly, especially in open spaces like The Meadows and Holyrood Park. However, you will encounter areas with livestock, particularly sheep on Arthur's Seat and Highland cows near Prestonfield House. It's essential to keep your dog on a lead in these designated areas.

Absolutely. The Meadows offers extensive, flat, paved paths perfect for a family stroll or for pushchairs. For a more nature-focused but still gentle walk, the loop through the Hermitage of Braid is a great choice, offering sheltered woodland paths alongside the Braid Burn.

Both offer fantastic but different perspectives. Arthur's Seat, being higher, provides a commanding 360-degree panorama of the city, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding countryside. Blackford Hill, while lower, is often praised for offering what many consider the best single view of Edinburgh, framing the city skyline with Arthur's Seat as a dramatic backdrop. The climb up Blackford Hill is also significantly less strenuous.

For a mostly flat and scenic walk, the Meadow Walk, The Meadows – Barclay Viewforth Church loop from Mayfield is an excellent option. This route takes you through the expansive public park of The Meadows on well-maintained, tree-lined paths, offering a pleasant urban green space experience without significant climbs.

The difficulty varies depending on the path you choose. There are gradual, grassy slopes that are more manageable, but also steep, rocky tracks that can be challenging, especially in wet weather. A popular moderate route is the Arthur's Seat – View of Edinburgh loop from Sciennes, which involves a significant ascent of over 200 meters. It's advisable to wear sturdy footwear.

There are nearly 50 curated hiking routes available in the area, ranging from easy park strolls to challenging volcanic hill climbs. This provides plenty of options to suit different fitness levels and interests.

The komoot community rates the hikes around Grange and Prestonfield very highly, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique ability to access dramatic, wild-feeling landscapes like Arthur's Seat and the peaceful woodlands of the Hermitage of Braid directly from the city.

The Hermitage of Braid is a local nature reserve centered around a wooded glen. The main trail follows the Braid Burn through the valley, offering a peaceful walk with the sound of running water. Key features include the historic Hermitage House, a 17th-century doocot (dovecote), and a rich variety of birdlife, making it a tranquil escape from the city.

Yes, many of the best routes in the area are circular. For a challenging loop with rewarding views, consider the Stone Steps to Arthur's Seat – Arthur's Seat loop from Edinburgh. This allows you to experience different aspects of Holyrood Park and return to your starting point without retracing your steps.

The area is very well-served by public transport. Numerous Lothian Buses routes run along the main roads bordering The Meadows, Holyrood Park, and Blackford Hill, making it easy to reach most trailheads without a car. Parking can be more challenging; while some on-street parking is available, it is often restricted and busy. Using public transport is generally the recommended option.

Yes, for those looking for a more substantial day of hiking, the Pentland Hills Regional Park is a highly-regarded option just a short drive away. It offers a network of trails across rolling hills and nine peaks, providing a more extensive wilderness experience with stunning views back towards Edinburgh.