Top scenic walks in and around Edinburgh: From coastal trails to sculpture parks

Beyond its historic streets, Edinburgh offers a variety of scenic trails that showcase coastal views, woodland escapes, and hillside panoramas for visiting outdoor enthusiasts.

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Coastal and Riverside Paths

The Forth Bridges Trail traces the southern shores of the Firth of Forth across an eight-kilometre route. Starting from South Queensferry, the paved and coastal path provides panoramic views of three bridges, including the Victorian Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015. Walkers can stop at cafes in South Queensferry's town centre, watch for seabirds, or extend the walk through the countryside and woodland of the Dalmeny Estate. Access is available via train from Edinburgh Waverley to Dalmeny Station or the Lothian Country 43 bus.

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For a flat, urban waterside stroll, the Union Canal towpath begins at Fountainbridge, a short walk from Princes Street. The path passes narrowboats, cafes, and leafy embankments. The full route from Fountainbridge to Ratho measures roughly 14.5 kilometres, though visitors can walk shorter sections and return by local bus.

Near the coast, the Portobello Prom offers a seafront option extending approximately 3.2 kilometres one way.

Woodland and Countryside Hikes

South of the city, Rosslyn Chapel serves as the starting point for a 5.5 to 8-kilometre woodland walk through Roslin Glen. Visitors can explore the 15th-century chapel, known for its stonework and appearance in The Da Vinci Code, before descending into the glen. The route follows the River North Esk past the 14th-century Rosslyn Castle. Lothian Buses service 37 connects the city centre directly to the site.

Further into the Midlothian countryside, the 13-kilometre Gorebridge Circular Walk winds through old railway tracks, farmland, and forests. The route highlights rural heritage, including the remains of a gunpowder factory and local wildlife such as deer and buzzards. Trains run directly from Edinburgh Waverley to Gorebridge.

Hills and Outdoor Art

Located in the Pentland Hills Regional Park, Glencourse Reservoir features a tranquil 5.5-kilometre return loop along gravel tracks. The area provides a quieter alternative for a relaxing walk framed by rolling hills. To reach the reservoir, visitors can take Lothian Buses service 37 to the Flotterstone Inn and walk 30 minutes to the start.

West of Edinburgh, Jupiter Artland offers roughly five kilometres of trails set within a sculpture park. The park features outdoor art installations, underground chambers, and grassy mounds, along with the art-inspired Café Party. Lothian Country service X27 drops passengers nearby at the Coxydene/Jupiter Artland stop, or visitors can walk 30 minutes from Kirknewton railway station.