The best walks and hikes around Glencorse Reservoir

There are over 500 hiking routes available around Glencorse Reservoir, catering to various skill levels. This includes more than 200 easy trails, over 260 moderate routes, and nearly 30 challenging options.

Yes, Glencorse Reservoir offers many family-friendly options. The landscape provides gentle paths near the water's edge and through open moorland. For an easy and engaging walk, consider the Castlelaw Fort and Earth House – Castlelaw Hill loop from Castlelaw, which is 3.2 km long and features historical sites.

Dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Glencorse Reservoir, following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Please keep dogs under control, especially around livestock and wildlife, and clean up after them. Some areas may require dogs to be on a lead, particularly during lambing season or near nature conservation sites.

Yes, many of the routes around Glencorse Reservoir are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular moderate circular option is the View from Harbour Hill – Glencorse Reservoir loop from Castlelaw, which is 8.5 km and offers expansive views.

Parking is available at various points around Glencorse Reservoir, with popular spots often found near the Flotterstone Inn and other access points within the Pentland Hills Regional Park. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as spaces can fill up quickly.

The best time to hike around Glencorse Reservoir is typically from spring to autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. Spring brings blooming heather, while autumn offers vibrant colours. Summer provides the warmest conditions, though midges can be present. Winter walks are possible but require appropriate gear due to potentially icy or muddy conditions.

Yes, while there are many easy and moderate routes, Glencorse Reservoir also serves as a gateway to more challenging hikes within the Pentland Hills. These often involve steeper ascents and longer distances, leading to higher peaks and more rugged terrain. There are nearly 30 difficult routes in the area for those seeking a greater challenge.

The trails around Glencorse Reservoir offer numerous scenic viewpoints. You can expect panoramic vistas across the reservoir itself, rolling hills, and the surrounding Pentland Hills. Many routes provide elevated perspectives of landmarks like Turnhouse Hill and Allermuir Hill, showcasing the open moorland landscape.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,500 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from gentle reservoir-side paths to more challenging hill climbs, and the stunning, expansive views of the Pentland Hills. The sense of tranquility and accessibility from Edinburgh are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the Flotterstone Inn, located near the reservoir, is a popular spot offering refreshments and facilities for hikers. It serves as a common starting and finishing point for many trails, providing a convenient place to refuel before or after your hike.

While the Pentland Hills are popular for outdoor activities, wild swimming in Glencorse Reservoir is generally not permitted as it is a drinking water supply. There are strict regulations in place to protect water quality and ensure public safety. It's best to enjoy the views from the shore.

Both Glencorse and Threipmuir Reservoirs offer excellent hiking opportunities within the Pentland Hills. Glencorse is often noted for its dramatic backdrop of hills like Turnhouse Hill and Allermuir Hill, providing a sense of grandeur. Threipmuir, located slightly further west, offers a different perspective of the regional park, with its own unique trails and views, often feeling a bit more remote. Both provide a mix of easy and moderate routes.