The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Craigentinny/Meadowbank
4.6
(2012)
29,294
hikers
33
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Craigentinny/Meadowbank feature a diverse landscape of urban green spaces, coastal paths, and volcanic hills. The area provides direct access to Holyrood Park, which includes the prominent Arthur's Seat and Salisbury Crags. Nearby Portobello Beach offers flat coastal walking, complementing the more rugged terrain found inland. This blend of environments provides varied hiking experiences within Edinburgh.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Craigentinny/Meadowbank
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Portobello Beach – Portobello Promenade…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
101
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
54
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(3)
24
hikers
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
30
hikers
5.07km
01:40
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
13
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Craigentinny/Meadowbank
Tips from the Community
Here, café after café, take your pick 😉
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Better for a stop than for shopping, but you can get the essentials
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Delicious coffee and pastries! Highly recommended 👌
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The ruins of St Anthony's Chapel on Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh are a fascinating relic from the late Middle Ages. Built in the 15th century, probably around 1400, as part of a pilgrimage centre, the chapel was dedicated to St Anthony of Padua. At the time, Arthur's Seat was a major pilgrimage site and the chapel served as a spiritual stop for believers stopping by on their pilgrimage. As well as being a place of worship, the chapel housed a collection of relics that promised pilgrims sacred experiences. Its architecture was simple but functional and it was built from local stone, blending it into the landscape of the hill. Over the centuries, however, the chapel lost importance and in the 16th century it was abandoned during the Reformation. Today, all that remains are the ruins of the chapel, which sits in a stunning location high on Arthur's Seat. The ruin is a popular destination for hikers and photographers who want to not only explore the historic site but also enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of Edinburgh and the surrounding hills. The St. Anthony Chapel ruins are accessible by a walking trail that takes visitors on a little journey of discovery. The climb to the top of Arthur's Seat offers not only a view of the ruins themselves but also of the vast, rolling terrain that underlines the historical significance of this site. Today the ruins are a fascinating monument to Edinburgh's history and a silent witness to past religious practices.
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It's always nice to get a breath of fresh air with the view over Edinburgh.
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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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A somewhat arduous path, but the view makes up for everything. It's better to visit in the morning when it's not so crowded.
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This is how the British monarchs live, small and cramped 😉😂
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Craigentinny/Meadowbank?
You'll find over 30 family-friendly hiking trails around Craigentinny/Meadowbank, with more than 20 of them rated as easy, perfect for all ages and skill levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Craigentinny/Meadowbank?
The trails in this area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,900 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal paths to volcanic hills, and the accessibility of these routes for families.
Are there any easy circular walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, there are several easy circular walks. For a gentle coastal experience, consider the Portobello Beach – Portobello Promenade loop. This route offers flat terrain and refreshing sea air, ideal for families with toddlers or strollers.
What kind of views can we expect on these family-friendly hikes?
The region offers a fantastic variety of views. From the Arthur's Seat area, you'll get panoramic vistas across Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. Coastal walks along Portobello Beach provide expansive sea views, while urban green spaces offer pleasant cityscapes.
Are there any specific landmarks or attractions to look out for on these trails?
Absolutely! Many routes pass by iconic Edinburgh landmarks. The Holyrood Park area features Arthur's Seat and the Salisbury Crags. You might also spot the Nelson Monument on Calton Hill from certain viewpoints.
Which trails offer a good balance of challenge and reward for older children?
For a slightly more challenging but rewarding experience, the St. Anthony's Chapel Ruins – Stone Steps to Arthur's Seat loop is a great option. It includes some ascent to the lower slopes of Arthur's Seat, offering stunning views and a sense of accomplishment without being overly strenuous.
What is the best season to go hiking with family in Craigentinny/Meadowbank?
Spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for family hikes, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the trails are accessible year-round. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, and even winter walks can be enjoyable on crisp, clear days, especially along the coast or lower paths of Holyrood Park.
Are there any family-friendly routes that explore the lower parts of Arthur's Seat without a full summit climb?
Yes, for a taste of Arthur's Seat without the full climb, the Dunsapie Loch – Lower Slopes of Arthur's Seat loop is an excellent choice. This easy route explores the scenic lower areas of Holyrood Park, offering beautiful views and a chance to experience the unique landscape.
Is public transport easily accessible to reach these family-friendly hiking areas?
Craigentinny/Meadowbank is well-served by public transport, making it easy to access many of the starting points for these family-friendly hikes. Edinburgh's bus network provides convenient connections to Holyrood Park and Portobello Beach from various parts of the city.
Are there any cafes or facilities near the family-friendly trails?
Yes, especially around Portobello Beach and the Holyrood Park area, you'll find various cafes, restrooms, and other facilities. Portobello Promenade, in particular, has numerous options for refreshments and snacks, perfect for a family outing.
What should we wear for a family hike in this region?
Given Edinburgh's changeable weather, it's always best to dress in layers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and a waterproof jacket is highly recommended, even on sunny days. For routes involving Arthur's Seat, sturdy footwear with good grip is advisable due to potentially uneven terrain.
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