Best lakes around Wester Hailes include a mix of urban wetlands, historic reservoirs, and natural lochs. While Wester Hailes is a residential area, it offers access to the Union Canal and green spaces like Hailes Quarry Park with its wetland area. Nearby, the Pentland Hills feature several reservoirs that provide both water supply and recreational opportunities. These water features contribute to the region's natural landscape and offer various outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 18, 2026
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Stunning views. Path gets very gravelly so care needed if you are less experienced off-road
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A little gem within Holyrood Park that’s perfect for a quick, scenic escape - often full with swans, geese and ducks
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Torduff Reservoir is a relatively small reservoir at 23 acres (9.4 hectares) just southwest of Bonaly. It sits neatly below the western flank of Torduff Hill. Nearby to the southwest is also Clubbiedean Reservoir. There is a good series of bike routes in this area that can take in both Torduff and Clubbiedean Reservoir to make use of the beautiful views of the surrounding Pentland Hills.
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Nestled amongst the Pentland Hills, Glencorse Reservoir is incredibly picturesque. It was built between 1820 and 1824 to provide water to mills in the area and supply drinking water to Edinburgh. Today, the reservoir still supplies water to 450,000 people. The reservoir was created by constructing a dam, which is 77 feet (23.5 m) at its highest point.
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Beautiful view of the surroundings
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The area around Wester Hailes offers a diverse range of water features, from urban wetlands and historic reservoirs to artificial lochs. You can find recently developed wetland areas like those in Hailes Quarry Park, the linear Union Canal, and picturesque reservoirs in the nearby Pentland Hills such as Glencorse Reservoir and Torduff Reservoir.
Yes, several spots are great for families. Dunsapie Loch, an artificial loch in Holyrood Park, is known for inviting visitors to linger in its pleasant setting. Hailes Quarry Park also features a wetland area with new paths, making it accessible for appreciating wildlife and plant life with children.
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and cycling along the Union Canal towpath. The Pentland Hills, home to reservoirs like Torduff and Clubbiedean, provide excellent opportunities for cycling and mountain biking. For specific routes, check out the Gravel biking around Wester Hailes or MTB Trails around Wester Hailes guides.
For incredibly picturesque settings, visit Glencorse Reservoir, nestled among the Pentland Hills. The area around Torduff Reservoir and Clubbiedean Reservoir also offers beautiful views of the surrounding Pentland Hills, especially from the bike routes in that area.
Yes, several reservoirs have historical significance. Glencorse Reservoir, for instance, was built between 1820 and 1824 to supply water to mills and Edinburgh, and it continues to provide drinking water today. Dunsapie Loch was created in 1844 at the initiative of Prince Albert.
The wetland area in Hailes Quarry Park was specifically created to provide a home for birds, amphibians, and native wetland plants. The Union Canal also serves as an important green corridor where you can observe local wildlife. Dunsapie Loch is also noted for its wildlife.
While not directly in Wester Hailes, reservoirs like Glencorse, Torduff, and Clubbiedean are accessible from the wider area. Public transport options and parking are available near the Pentland Hills, providing access to these scenic spots. Many cycling and walking routes connect Wester Hailes to the Pentland Hills, such as those found in the Cycling around Wester Hailes guide.
Yes, the Union Canal towpath offers pedestrian and cycle access, connecting Wester Hailes to the city center. Hailes Quarry Park has improved access thanks to new paths, allowing visitors to enjoy the wetland area regardless of weather conditions. Many routes around the Pentland Hills reservoirs are also suitable for walking and cycling.
Visitors frequently appreciate the picturesque settings, especially at reservoirs like Glencorse Reservoir. The tranquility of spots like Dunsapie Loch and the feeling of discovering a 'secret of nature' at places like Torduff Reservoir are also highly valued. The opportunities for walking, cycling, and enjoying nature are key attractions.
Absolutely. The area around Torduff and Clubbiedean Reservoirs is known for a good series of bike routes that offer beautiful views of the Pentland Hills. You can find detailed cycling routes, including those passing by Glencorse Reservoir, in the Cycling around Wester Hailes guide.
Yes, Hailes Quarry Park, located directly within Wester Hailes, features a recently developed wetland area. Additionally, the Union Canal borders Wester Hailes, providing a significant linear water feature popular for walking and cycling.


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