The best walks and hikes around Morningside
4.6
(2923)
37,740
hikers
38
hikes
Hiking around Morningside offers access to a network of trails within and bordering the city, characterized by a mix of urban green spaces, woodlands, and hills. The terrain includes varied paths through areas like the Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill, providing both gentle gradients and some climbs. These routes often follow natural features such as burns and offer views over the surrounding landscape.
Best hiking trails around Morningside
- The most popular hiking route is Buckstone Snab & the Braid…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.5
(8)
59
hikers
4.73km
01:18
70m
80m
Hike the moderate 2.9-mile Buckstone Snab & Braid Hills loop from Bramdean Rise for panoramic Edinburgh views and fragrant gorse.
4
hikers
Hike an easy 1.8-mile loop through Edinburgh's Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill, offering city views and natural beauty.
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4.7
(3)
45
hikers
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(3)
28
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
(1)
39
hikers
8.30km
02:21
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Morningside
Tips from the Community
It is good going clockwise (East) on the lower section, more technical coming down from the top heading West
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From the top of Blackford Hill
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Great views of pentlands, Arthur’s Seat and city of Edinburgh
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Paths on the golf course so be aware
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You get very good views of Edinburgh when you are on these single tracks on the side of The Braids Hill. The surfaces are compact enough, not too much mud and decent grip. There are walkers using the same tracks but it was far from congested late February
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Blackford Hill, at 164 meters high, is an unmissable natural highlight in Edinburgh. Situated between Morningside and the Braid Hills, this hill offers one of the most breathtaking views of the Edinburgh skyline, including the iconic Arthur's Seat and the picturesque east coast. For hikers, walkers and nature lovers, Blackford Hill is a perfect destination to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while enjoying Edinburgh's charms from a unique perspective. The climb up Blackford Hill is relatively easy and accessible to people of all fitness levels. The peaks are reached via a variety of trails that lead through the picturesque landscape of the 60.3 hectare Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Nature Reserve. This area, which also includes Hermitage House, is a true gem for nature lovers and, in addition to the spectacular views, offers a wealth of flora and fauna as well as numerous bird species that can be observed here. There's really no wrong time to visit Blackford Hill. Each season offers a unique experience - from the fresh green of spring to the warm colors of autumn to the quiet beauty of winter. However, a visit at sunrise or sunset is particularly magical, when the light bathes the city and surrounding landscapes in a golden or pink glow. As far as equipment is concerned, sturdy shoes are recommended due to the partly uneven paths. It can also be quite windy at the summit, so a windproof jacket is recommended, especially outside the summer months. Binoculars can also be useful for enjoying birdlife or detailed city views. Not only is Blackford Hill a fantastic place for a hike or picnic, but it is also a wonderful spot for photography enthusiasts who want to capture the beauty of Edinburgh.
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The Braid Hills are the most southern of the seven hills which Edinburgh is supposedly built on. The highest point is Buckstone Snab at 208m and there is a second less accessible summit known as the Braids standing at 178m to the north of the area. The circuit around the hills and over Buckstone Snab is a popular walk but can get muddy in wet weather.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Morningside?
Hiking around Morningside features a diverse landscape, including established woodlands, urban green spaces, and accessible hills like the Braid Hills and Blackford Hill. Trails often follow natural features such as burns and offer a mix of gentle gradients and some climbs, providing varied paths for different abilities.
Are there many easy hiking options in Morningside?
Yes, Morningside offers a good selection of easy hiking routes. Out of the 39 available tours, 28 are classified as easy. An example of an easy path is The Royal Observatory, Blackford Hill & the Hermitage of Braid loop, which traverses woodland and open ground.
What are the typical lengths and durations of hikes in the Morningside area?
Hikes around Morningside vary in length and duration. For instance, the Buckstone Snab & the Braid Hills loop from Bramdean Rise is about 2.9 miles (4.7 km) and takes approximately 1 hour 18 minutes. Longer routes, like the Hermitage of Braid House – Royal Observatory, Edinburgh loop from Greenbank, cover about 5.7 miles (9.2 km) and can take around 2 hours 33 minutes.
Are there any circular hiking routes available in Morningside?
Many of the hiking routes in Morningside are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Buckstone Snab & the Braid Hills loop from Bramdean Rise and the The Royal Observatory, Blackford Hill & the Hermitage of Braid loop.
What kind of views or landmarks can I expect to see on Morningside trails?
Morningside trails offer panoramic city views, especially from elevated points like Blackford Hill. You can also explore natural features within the Hermitage of Braid. Nearby attractions include Arthur's Seat and Corstorphine Hill Tower, which provide additional viewpoints and natural monuments.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Morningside?
The hiking routes in Morningside are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessible hills, established woodlands, and the variety of urban-edge green spaces that offer options for different ability levels.
Are there any challenging hiking routes around Morningside?
While many routes are easy, Morningside also offers moderate challenges. There are 11 moderate routes available, featuring ascents to viewpoints and varied terrain. An example is the Hermitage of Braid House – Buckstone Snab Summit loop from Morningside, which includes significant elevation gain.
Can I find trails that are suitable for families in Morningside?
Yes, Morningside has several trails suitable for families, particularly the easier routes that traverse woodlands and open ground without significant climbs. The varied network offers options for different ability levels, making it possible to find a suitable path for a family outing.
Are there any historical sites or castles near the hiking trails?
Yes, the Morningside area is close to several historical sites and castles. While hiking, you might consider visiting nearby attractions such as Holyrood Palace or exploring the ruins of Cammo House. For more information, you can check the Castles around Morningside guide.
How many hiking trails are there in total around Morningside?
There are over 35 hiking trails available around Morningside, offering a wide range of options for explorers. This includes a mix of easy and moderate routes through various landscapes.
What natural monuments can be found near Morningside's hiking routes?
Beyond the immediate trails, the region boasts several notable natural monuments. These include prominent summits like Arthur's Seat and Scald Law Summit, as well as Carnethy Hill. You can find more details in the Natural Monuments around Morningside guide.
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