The best family-friendly hikes and walks around New Town/Broughton
4.6
(2009)
29,058
hikers
84
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around New Town/Broughton offer a diverse landscape, blending urban pathways with prominent natural features. The area is characterized by the green corridor of the Water of Leith river, providing tranquil riverside paths. Nearby hills like Calton Hill offer panoramic city views, while the Royal Botanic Garden provides a cultivated natural escape. This combination ensures a variety of accessible routes suitable for families seeking outdoor activity within Edinburgh.
Best family friendly hiking trails around New Town/Broughton
- The…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.4
(21)
117
hikers
7.49km
02:00
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(46)
240
hikers
13.2km
03:27
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(9)
115
hikers
4.72km
01:13
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
72
hikers
5.98km
01:36
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
78
hikers
5.35km
01:27
70m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful walk in the middle of Edinburgh to relax.
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not suitable for wheelchair users
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No longer a real insider tip, it is still significantly quieter than in the New Town and especially in the Old Town. Plan some time, nothing happens in a hurry here, so many pretty little corners/buildings/bridges want to be explored! There is even a waterfall. An extremely picturesque district, partly with cobblestones
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It's actually a well! It was once believed that the water here had healing powers and could cure arthritis and poor eyesight. Another fun fact: the well is mentioned in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Either way, it's a beautiful spot by the river and a little different, a place that not everyone knows about yet.
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A bit of whitewater in the middle of Edinburgh—who would have thought? There are even small waterfalls. We saw a few anglers and lots of locals gathering by the water for picnics.
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OK, to grab a coffee to go at the entrance or exit and rest on a bench. But it's not really a highlight for me.
1
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Admission is free, but donations are requested at the exit. Now in August, not much is in bloom, but we enjoyed the tranquility, the overall scenery, the many shady benches, and the connection between nature and art – a definite recommendation.
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This is one of the most crowded sections of the Leith Water Trail. The entire trail is worth walking and seeing, and other parts are quieter.
2
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in New Town/Broughton?
There are over 80 family-friendly hiking trails around New Town/Broughton, offering a wide variety of options for all ages and abilities. Most of these, 61 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them perfect for a relaxed family outing.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for families with toddlers?
Yes, for families with toddlers or those looking for a very gentle stroll, the St Cuthbert's Kirkyard – St John's Church, Edinburgh loop from Edinburgh is an excellent choice. It's an easy 2.2 km route that can be completed in under an hour, offering a pleasant urban walk.
Can we find trails with waterfalls or interesting natural features?
Absolutely! The St Bernard's Well – Dean Village Waterfall loop from Edinburgh is an easy 6 km route that takes you past the picturesque Dean Village and its charming waterfall, offering a lovely natural escape within the city.
What kind of views can we expect on family hikes in this area?
Many trails offer stunning views. For panoramic cityscapes, consider routes that ascend Arthur's Seat or Calton Hill. You can also find beautiful vistas of the Firth of Forth. For example, the highlight View of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth is a popular spot.
Are there any circular routes that are good for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes in New Town/Broughton are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. The Water of Leith Walkway Loop is a popular moderate option, offering a scenic riverside journey.
What are some notable landmarks or historical sites we can see along the trails?
The area is rich in history. You can explore sites like Holyrood Palace, which is often part of routes around Arthur's Seat. The Holyrood Abbey – Holyrood Palace loop from Edinburgh is a moderate trail that takes you past these significant historical landmarks.
Are there any trails that pass through gardens or green spaces?
Yes, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – Rock Garden loop from Edinburgh is an easy 4.9 km route that allows you to explore the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden, providing a tranquil and green environment perfect for families.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in New Town/Broughton?
The family-friendly trails in New Town/Broughton are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 1800 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse scenery, from urban pathways to natural green corridors, and the accessibility of routes for families.
Is public transport easily accessible for reaching these hiking trails?
New Town/Broughton is well-served by Edinburgh's public transport network. Many trailheads are within walking distance of bus stops or tram lines, making it convenient to access the starting points of various family-friendly hikes without needing a car.
Are there any specific lakes or lochs that can be visited during a family hike?
Yes, some routes, especially those around Arthur's Seat, can lead you past small lochs. For instance, Dunsapie Loch is a notable natural feature in the area, offering a peaceful spot to enjoy during your walk.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in New Town/Broughton?
Spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for family hikes, with longer daylight hours and blooming flora. However, autumn provides beautiful foliage, and even winter walks can be enjoyable on clear, crisp days, especially on the well-maintained paths. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
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