4.5
(1678)
20,749
hikers
11
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Dalkeith And District offer access to a landscape shaped by the River North Esk and River South Esk, which converge to form scenic river valleys. The area features ancient woodlands, including the Dalkeith Oakwood, a Site of Special Scientific Interest with trees of medieval origin. Rolling country characterizes the terrain, gradually ascending towards the Moorfoot Hills to the south. These trails provide opportunities to explore historic estates and natural features directly from public transport stops.
…Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.5
(13)
182
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
24
hikers
5.92km
01:34
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
13
hikers
13.6km
03:34
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
29
hikers
4.06km
01:04
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lovely spot to sit and relax with a good cup of coffee
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St Mary's church stands just within the Dalkeith Estate. It was built in the early 1840's in the "English University" style. The church houses Scotland’s only currently working water-powered organ which was installed in 1846.
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The Orangery was built in the mid 1800's as part of the improvements made by Walter Francis the 5th Duke of Buccleuch. He also wanted to substantially remodel the palace, but these plans were never completed.
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That’s not a Scots Pine, it a Cedar of Lebanon
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Serene spot for a break in Dalkeith Country Park. There are plenty of benches and sitting beside the river is incredibly peaceful.
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There are 11 hiking trails in Dalkeith And District that are easily accessible from bus stations. These routes offer a convenient way to explore the area without a car.
Yes, Dalkeith And District offers several easy routes perfect for families. For example, the St Mary's Church, Dalkeith – Dalkeith Palace loop from Dalkeith is an easy 5.9 km trail that takes about 1 hour 34 minutes. Another great option is the St Mary's Church, Dalkeith – Ancient Oak Woodland Path loop from Dalkeith, which is 4.1 km and leads through the historic Dalkeith Oakwood.
The bus-accessible hikes in Dalkeith And District primarily feature the scenic river valleys of the North and South Esk, ancient woodlands, and the expansive Dalkeith Country Park. You'll encounter picturesque paths through relict oak woodlands, some with trees as old as 900 years, and rolling country that gently ascends towards the Moorfoot Hills.
Many trails in Dalkeith And District, particularly within Dalkeith Country Park, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife like roe deer, badgers, and otters, or near livestock. Check specific park rules for any restricted areas.
Several routes offer glimpses of historical sites. Within Dalkeith Country Park, you can see Dalkeith Palace and Gazebo and the historic Montagu Bridge. Beyond the park, riverside paths along the River South Esk lead to sites like The Maiden Bridge and Newbattle Abbey College.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes in Dalkeith And District are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same bus stop. For instance, the Dalkeith Palace and Gazebo – Dalkeith Park Gazebo loop from Dalkeith is a moderate 8.5 km circular hike, and the St Mary's Church, Dalkeith – Montagu Bridge loop from Dalkeith is an easy 5.5 km option.
Spring is particularly beautiful, with vibrant bluebells carpeting the woodland floors, especially along trails like the Lugtonhaugh Walk (Red Trail) in Dalkeith Country Park. Snowdrops are also stunning in February. Summer offers lush greenery, while autumn brings rich colours to the ancient woodlands. The paths are generally accessible year-round, but always check local conditions.
The bus-accessible trails in Dalkeith And District are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1600 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the ease of access from public transport, making it a perfect escape into nature.
For those seeking a longer challenge, the Dalkeith Park Gazebo – Dalkeith Palace and Gazebo loop from Dalkeith is a moderate 10 km route that takes approximately 2 hours 37 minutes. This trail explores more of Dalkeith Country Park's boundaries and offers varied terrain.
Dalkeith town centre, where many bus routes converge, offers various cafes and pubs for refreshments before or after your hike. Within Dalkeith Country Park itself, there are also facilities available for food and drink.


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