The best city hikes and walks around Northfield/Willowbrae
4.5
(2372)
32,466
hikers
19
hikes
Urban hiking trails around Northfield/Willowbrae offer a blend of city exploration and access to natural landmarks within Edinburgh. The area is characterized by its proximity to Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcanic hill, and the Salisbury Crags, providing varied terrain and elevation changes. Accessible paths lead through urban settings and into green spaces, offering panoramic views of the city and the Firth of Forth. This unique combination makes Northfield/Willowbrae a suitable location for diverse urban hiking experiences.
Best urban hiking trails…
Last updated: August 30, 2026
4.9
(8)
187
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(6)
45
hikers
29.2km
07:57
330m
320m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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16
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
hikers
3.27km
00:54
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Nice water features to walk between, especially in warm weather.
3
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Nice view of the city and the Firth of Forth when the weather is clear.
5
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You have a good view of the Crags as soon as you start the hike to Arthur's Seat between Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament.
6
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The church was built in 1846-1847 in an early English Gothic style, to a design by architect John Henderson. The stones for the building came from the palace on the Royal Mile of Mary of Guise, the 16th-century regent of Scotland. The layout was inspired by reforms in Anglican worship that arose from the Oxford Movement. (Wikipedia)
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The parliament is housed in the Scottish Parliament Building, a building completed in 2004 by the Spanish-Italian architects Enric Miralles and Benedetta Tagliabue, and is located on the grounds of Holyroodhouse in the Scottish capital Edinburgh. The name Holyrood is also used informally as a reference to the parliament (to distinguish it from London's "Westminster"). (Wikipedia) In the wall of the Scottish Parliament, a sculpture called "Canongate Wall" is incorporated. This artwork consists of a selection of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks from all over Scotland with geological or historical significance. Most of the stones are engraved with quotes, chosen by the Scottish people. The sculpture, created by Gillian Forbes and Martin Reilly in 2002, consists of flat panels with quotes, various vertical pieces of dolerite, an engraved paving stone, and numerous other large objects.
6
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Holyrood is located at the end of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh and has been Scotland's principal royal residence since the 16th century. The palace serves as a venue for state occasions and official entertaining. The palace adjoins Holyrood Abbey and the gardens lie within Holyrood Park. The King's Gallery was created from existing buildings near the west entrance to the palace and opened in 2002 to display works of art from the Royal Collection. An adult admission ticket costs £26.00 (£22.00 if booked online in advance).
5
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Art market in a former church
0
0
This alleyway was once used to drive cattle to the wholesale market. Today, the alleyway is home to clubs, pubs, student dormitories, and hostels.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Northfield/Willowbrae?
There are over 20 urban hiking trails around Northfield/Willowbrae, offering a variety of experiences for different fitness levels. Most of these are easy, making them accessible for many.
What kind of views can I expect on urban hikes in Northfield/Willowbrae?
Many urban hikes in the Northfield/Willowbrae area offer rewarding panoramic views. You can expect to see expansive vistas of Edinburgh, including iconic landmarks, and the beautiful Firth of Forth.
Are there any family-friendly urban walks in Northfield/Willowbrae?
Yes, the area is well-suited for family walks, with many accessible paths and routes that are considered easy. These shorter excursions often have minimal elevation gain, making them suitable for all ages.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along urban trails?
The urban trails in and around Northfield/Willowbrae offer access to several significant landmarks. You can explore areas near Arthur's Seat, visit St Giles' Cathedral, or admire the Scott Monument. Many routes also pass through historic streets like Victoria Street.
Are there any circular urban walks in the Northfield/Willowbrae area?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, you could try the Nelson Monument, Calton Hill – Dugald Stewart Monument loop from Easter Road Stadium, which offers a pleasant circular experience.
What is the best time of year for urban hiking in Northfield/Willowbrae?
The Northfield/Willowbrae area is enjoyable for urban hiking year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, many accessible paths remain suitable for walks, though conditions can be cooler.
Are there any longer or more challenging urban hikes available?
While many routes are easy, there are options for those seeking a greater challenge. The Duddingston Loch – Portobello Beach loop from Southside is a more difficult, longer route, covering nearly 29 km with significant elevation changes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Northfield/Willowbrae?
The komoot community highly rates the urban hiking experiences here, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the blend of natural beauty with city landmarks, the accessible paths, and the rewarding panoramic views.
Can I find urban walks that include coastal views or beaches?
Yes, you can find urban walks that lead towards the coast. The Quiet Side of Portobello Beach – Portobello High Street loop from Easter Road Stadium is an excellent option for enjoying seaside scenery within an urban context.
Are there urban hikes that offer views of Salisbury Crags?
Absolutely. The View of Salisbury Crags – Cowgate loop from Easter Road Stadium is a great choice for experiencing the dramatic landscape of Salisbury Crags as part of your urban exploration.
How accessible are the urban hiking trails by public transport?
Northfield/Willowbrae is well-integrated into Edinburgh's public transport network. Many urban trails are easily reachable by bus, allowing you to start your hike without needing a car. Specific route details often include information on nearby transport links.
Are there any easy urban hikes suitable for beginners?
Yes, the majority of urban hikes in Northfield/Willowbrae are rated as easy. A good starting point could be the Royal Mile – Edinburgh Castle loop from Edinburgh, which offers a relatively short distance and minimal elevation gain, perfect for those new to urban hiking.
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