Best lakes around Liberton And District are primarily reservoirs and lochs located within Edinburgh and the adjacent Pentland Hills. This area provides a combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. These water bodies have historical significance, serving as water sources, and now offer diverse landscapes for exploration. Visitors can find various activities and scenic spots around these aquatic features.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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Stunning views. Path gets very gravelly so care needed if you are less experienced off-road
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A little gem within Holyrood Park that’s perfect for a quick, scenic escape - often full with swans, geese and ducks
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Torduff Reservoir is a relatively small reservoir at 23 acres (9.4 hectares) just southwest of Bonaly. It sits neatly below the western flank of Torduff Hill. Nearby to the southwest is also Clubbiedean Reservoir. There is a good series of bike routes in this area that can take in both Torduff and Clubbiedean Reservoir to make use of the beautiful views of the surrounding Pentland Hills.
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Nestled amongst the Pentland Hills, Glencorse Reservoir is incredibly picturesque. It was built between 1820 and 1824 to provide water to mills in the area and supply drinking water to Edinburgh. Today, the reservoir still supplies water to 450,000 people. The reservoir was created by constructing a dam, which is 77 feet (23.5 m) at its highest point.
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Beautiful view of the surroundings
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For stunning scenery, Glencorse Reservoir in the Pentland Hills is highly recommended. It's known for its incredibly picturesque setting. Another inviting spot is Dunsapie Loch, offering a beautiful area within Holyrood Park with views towards Arthur's Seat.
Yes, Glencorse Reservoir has a rich history. It was constructed between 1820 and 1824 to supply water to local mills and Edinburgh's drinking water system, a function it continues to serve for 450,000 people today. Its dam is 77 feet (23.5 meters) high.
Torduff Reservoir and Clubbiedean Reservoir are integrated into a network of bike routes within the Pentland Hills, offering beautiful views for cyclists. You can find various cycling routes, including those passing by Glencorse Reservoir, in the Cycling around Liberton And District guide.
Many of the lakes are suitable for families. Glencorse Reservoir, Torduff Reservoir, and Dunsapie Loch are all categorized as family-friendly, offering scenic walks and opportunities to enjoy nature.
Harlaw Reservoir and Threipmuir Reservoir are known spots for wild swimming. However, caution is always advised regarding water depth, temperature, and potential hazards. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and assess conditions before entering the water.
Duddingston Loch, located within Holyrood Park, is particularly recognized as a haven for birdlife. It offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with various geese and waterfowl present. Other lakes, especially those in the Pentland Hills, also support diverse local wildlife.
Yes, the Pentland Hills, where many reservoirs like Glencorse Reservoir and Threipmuir Reservoir are located, offer numerous scenic and dog-friendly trails. You can explore various running and walking routes in the Running Trails around Liberton And District guide.
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warmer weather ideal for outdoor activities like walking and cycling. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, scenic views, though some trails might be more challenging. Always check local conditions before your visit.
Many of the trails and areas around the lakes, particularly in the Pentland Hills, are dog-friendly. For example, the trails around Glencorse Reservoir are suitable for dogs. Always keep dogs under control and be mindful of livestock and other visitors.
Many of the lakes, especially those within Holyrood Park like Dunsapie Loch and Duddingston Loch, are easily accessible from Edinburgh city centre. Reservoirs in the Pentland Hills generally require a slightly longer journey, often involving a bus ride followed by a walk.
The lakes in this area, primarily reservoirs and lochs, are unique for their blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Many were constructed for water supply but now serve as vital recreational spaces, offering diverse landscapes from urban park settings to rugged hill environments, all within close proximity to Edinburgh.
Yes, several lakes are geographically close and can be linked for longer outings. For instance, Threipmuir Reservoir is roughly an hour's walk from Glencorse Reservoir, and Torduff Reservoir is near Clubbiedean Reservoir, making it easy to visit both as part of a single route.


Still not found your perfect lake around Liberton And District? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.