The best walks and hikes around Royal Burgh Of Forfar

Yes, Forfar has many options for families. A great choice is the Home Loch – Murton Nature Reserve loop from Lunanhead. It's a short, flat trail through a nature reserve with plenty of birdwatching opportunities. Forfar Loch Country Park is another popular spot, offering a scenic and mostly flat path around the loch that's perfect for all abilities.

Forfar is very dog-friendly. Forfar Loch Country Park is a local favorite for dog walkers, with large grassy areas and a clear path around the water. Reid Park is another good option with accessible gravel paths. As always, please keep your dog under control, especially near wildlife and livestock, and follow local signage.

For panoramic views over Forfar and the Strathmore countryside, a walk up Balmashanner Hill is highly recommended. The The Inglis Memorial loop from Gallowshade is a great way to experience it. For a different perspective, Carrot Hill is a well-regarded spot known for its expansive views from a gentle climb.

Yes, you can visit a local hidden gem known as 'The hidden valley and secret waterfall'. It's a beautiful spot that's not too crowded, offering a lovely walk to an impressive waterfall. Be aware that the path can be slippery, especially after rain.

The main path around Forfar Loch is a circular route of about 2.5 miles (4 km). It's a very popular, flat, and well-surfaced walk suitable for all fitness levels. For a slightly longer route that still takes in the scenery of the loch, consider the Forfar Witches Memorial – View of the Lake loop from Gallowshade.

There are over 20 hiking routes to explore around Forfar. The majority of these are rated as easy, with a handful of moderate trails for those seeking a bit more of a challenge. There are no designated difficult or expert-level alpine routes starting directly from the town.

The trails around Forfar are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the variety, from the peaceful, flat paths around the lochs to the rewarding climbs up local hills. The well-maintained paths and beautiful scenery of the Angus countryside are frequently mentioned as highlights.

While most local trails are gentle, Forfar serves as an excellent base for accessing more challenging terrain. The nearby Angus Glens, such as Glen Clova and Glen Esk, offer true Scottish hillwalking with steep climbs and extensive moorland for experienced hikers looking for a full day in the mountains.

Many trails, especially those starting in the town or at Forfar Loch Country Park, are accessible on foot from the town centre, which is served by local and regional bus routes. For trails further afield, such as in the Angus Glens, public transport options can be limited, and checking bus schedules in advance is recommended.

Yes, Forfar has a rich history you can explore on foot. The The Inglis Memorial – Forfar Witches Memorial loop from Gowanbank incorporates several historical points of interest. Additionally, the town itself has a dedicated Forfar Murals Trail, a 2.2-mile walking route that showcases various outdoor art installations depicting local history.

The Forfar Path Network connects the town with surrounding points of interest like Restenneth Priory and the village of Lunanhead. These paths cross a mix of farmland and woodland. A detailed map of the network is available from the local council. You can view a PDF map here: Forfar Path Network Map.