The best walks and hikes around Penicuik And District

Yes, many of the best hikes in the region are circular. The area is well-known for its loop trails that take you up into the Pentland Hills and back. A great example is the Turnhouse Hill & Glencorse Reservoir loop from Flotterstone, which combines a rewarding hill climb with a scenic walk beside the water.

Dogs are welcome on most trails, especially in the expansive Pentland Hills Regional Park. However, it's important to keep them under control, particularly near livestock which is common in the hills. The paths around Roslin Glen Country Park are also a popular choice for dog walkers.

For a gentle walk suitable for all ages, the Penicuik Estate is an excellent choice. It offers a network of relatively flat paths through woodlands and along the River North Esk. You can explore historic features like the ruins of Penicuik House. The trails in Hewan Wood are also great for families, with paths alongside the river.

Many trails in the Pentland Hills are accessible via public transport from Edinburgh. Several bus services run to Penicuik and other nearby towns. For trailheads like Flotterstone, which is a popular starting point, you can take a bus that stops on the A702, leaving a short walk to the visitor centre and car park.

The main car park for the eastern Pentlands is at the Flotterstone Visitor Centre, located within the Pentland Hills Regional Park. This is the starting point for many of the most popular routes. It can get very busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended. Alternative parking can be found at other access points to the park.

Yes, the region offers several demanding hikes for experienced walkers. For a significant challenge, consider the Carnethy Hill, Threipmuir Reservoir & Glencorse Reservoir loop. This route covers over 20 km and includes substantial elevation gain, taking you across prominent peaks and past multiple reservoirs for a full day of hiking.

The area is rich in history. On the Capelaw Hill, Allermuir Hill & Castlelaw Hill loop, you can visit Castlelaw Hill Fort, a well-preserved Iron Age fort. For something different, the Penicuik Estate features the impressive 18th-century ruin of Penicuik House, which is a fascinating landmark on more gentle walks.

The trails around Penicuik and District are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning panoramic views from the tops of the Pentland Hills, the well-maintained paths, and the variety of routes that range from peaceful reservoir walks to challenging ridge climbs.

Absolutely. Reservoirs are a key feature of the landscape. Glencorse and Threipmuir reservoirs are central to many Pentland Hills hikes starting from Flotterstone. The Carnethy Hill & Scald Law loop offers fantastic views down onto Glencorse Reservoir as you descend from the hills.

A moderate hike in the Pentland Hills typically involves steep ascents, uneven terrain, and several hours of walking. You should have a good baseline level of fitness and be comfortable with climbs of 300-500 meters. It's also important to be prepared for Scotland's changeable weather, even on shorter routes.

There are over 100 hiking routes to explore around Penicuik and District. These range from 26 easy walks perfect for a casual stroll to over 70 moderate hikes and 9 difficult trails for those seeking a serious challenge in the Pentland Hills.

After a day in the hills, there are several options for a well-earned refreshment. The town of Penicuik has a number of traditional pubs. If you start or finish your hike at the popular Flotterstone entrance to the Pentlands, there is a pub and restaurant conveniently located right by the car park.