The Pentland Hills, On Edinburgh’s Doorstep

Last year, I walked nearly 9 miles in a big loop through the Pentland Hills. It was as painful as it was enjoyable. My old carcass really wasn’t up to walking that far on such a sunny day carrying well over a stone of camera gear. But I managed it and, despite being very sore after, I’m very glad I did. This is a selection of photos taken that day (and a few others).

As I walked for 4 hours, I met many people, not surprising for such a glorious day. And, as you do, you say hello and chat in a way you only do in the Great Outdoors. Never happens in a street. It made me wonder how many Edinburgh people never consider a visit to these wonderful hills. Here’s a little photo showcase of what you can see in the Pentlands Hills. You don’t need to be an avid hillwalker type, there are plenty easy strolls. Hopefully it will encourage you to pay them a visit.

Harlaw is a great place to start if you don’t want anything too strenuous. Similarly, a walk from Flotterstone up through the filter beds isn’t too taxing and offers some great views, especially if you go all the way to Glencorse.

All these photos are linked to hi-res versions that you can download for free.

First things first. Check out the Pentland Hills website. Much of what I will describe is covered there and you can get a very useful map [PDF].

This is a view of East and West Kip taken overlooking Threapmuir reservoir. This at at the far end of the Harlaw Woodland walk. As you can see, on a nice day it’s a great place to be.

If you leave from the Harlaw Ranger’s station, you can go up over the ridge and down to the reservoir at the base of Black Hill. It’s usually very peaceful here and the bottom of Black Hill has a lovely red colour.

The woodland walk at Harlaw is one of the easiest loops you can do. Ideal for you first stroll in the Pentlands, it’s all flat, so great with small kids. There are lots of nice trees too.

Sometimes even Scotland can look at little bit like Africa. This photo can also be seen in the Harlaw Ranger’s Station.

At the far end of the Harlaw woodland walk you arrive at Threapmuir reservoir. If you carry on round to the left there is a lovely avenue of trees.

This is the same avenue of trees seen from the other side of Threipmuir Reservoir.

Pick the right time of year and you get the ever popular sight of a field of rapeseed.

The avenue up the hill at Bavelaw is very pretty in the sun. Easiest to approach from the car park at Threapmuir.