Arthur’s Seat
A favourite with tourists, it’s incredible the number of Edinburghers who haven’t actually been up Arthur’s Seat. The serious walkers can start from the footpath at Holyrood Palace, and little legs can join the trail halfway up where there’s a road accessible by car. Temperatures can drop at the top, so make sure you take plenty of layers and enough fluids and snacks to keep everyone going.
Water of Leith
Did you know you can join the Water of Leith from behind Old College? There’s an entry point down by the Galleries, so why not arrange to meet some friends at a familiar spot and head off for a wander. This is a gentle walk with lots of entry and exit points. Keep going to Leith and you could enjoy a sweet treat on arrival down at the Shore.
River Almond Walkway
The 6.6km walk around the River Almond from Cramond and back is a beautiful trail. You’ll find yourself exploring some of the leafier suburbs of Edinburgh as you snake your way along the river path. If it’s been wet, sections can be muddy, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear. Tides dependent, you may be able to walk out to Cramond Island, too.
S1 Hill Walk
Union Canal (many sections)
Another easy stroll with multiple entry points, the Union Canal towpath makes up part of the John Muir Way, a long-distance walking route. If you’re keen for a full day out, follow the canal out of Edinburgh for a 28-mile walk to The Kelpies. You can also join in the West End and head towards the centre of town for a shorter stroll.
Blackford Hill and the Braid Hills
Blackford Hill and The Hermitage is a beautiful nature reserve in Morningside. You can follow the Braid Burn for 2 miles or take a  short climb to the top of Blackford Hill. Not far away, you’ll find the Braid Hills, the southernmost of the Seven Hills of Edinburgh, which provide a scenic circular walk, taking in some beautiful views across Edinburgh.
Corstorphine Hill
A popular sledging location, Corstorphine Hill will be familiar to many of our families. It’s great for dog walks with plenty of space to run around. You can also catch the sunset on a winter’s day and, if you’re lucky, you might even spot the zebras in the zoo. Sections can be icy over the winter months, so take care and ascend slowly.
Pentland Hills
Often cited as the ‘Best Gym in Edinburgh,’ these hills are on the city’s doorstep, offering a plethora of different options at higher and lower levels. Common starting points are Threipmuir and Harlaw Reservoirs, Bonaly, Hillend and Flotterstone. All of these are accessible by public transport.
Travel around the City
Looking to get back home after your walk? Remember that you can use your Young Scot card to whiz around the city free of charge. If you’re really brave, you could even use the bus to link-up all of the above walks as a big challenge day.
We hope we’ve inspired a few of you to head out for a winter stroll over the holidays. Wherever you choose to wander, make sure you wrap up warm and dry, take some spare clothing, plan your route, tell someone where you’re going, what time you’re expected back, and, crucially, take note of where the coffee and cake stops are along your chosen path.
