Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Lakes
United Kingdom
Scotland
Lothian

Tynewater

Top 6 Lakes around Tynewater

Best lakes around Tynewater offer diverse natural landscapes, from tranquil reservoirs to urban lochs. This region, located near Edinburgh, Scotland, features a mix of freshwater bodies and coastal lagoons. Visitors can explore areas known for wildlife, scenic views, and opportunities for outdoor activities. The lakes provide a variety of settings for those seeking natural beauty and recreation.

Best lakes around Tynewater

  • The most popular lakes is Gladhouse Reservoir Scenic Road Section, a trail that offers great hiking and cycling…

Last updated: July 2, 2026

Gladhouse Reservoir Scenic Road Section

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Gladhouse Reservoir is just a short drive from Edinburgh and just to the west of the Moorfoot Hills. This peaceful wildlife haven offers visitors great hiking and cycling opportunities. This …

Tip by

See rides here

Send to Phone

Save

Duddingston Loch

Highlight • Natural

Duddington Loch is a freshwater lake nestled at the foot of Arthur's Seat. It's an important habitat for various bird species particular during migration seasons. In the nearby village of …

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Dr Neil's Garden

Highlight • Viewpoint

The most peaceful spot imaginable nestled in amongst a city! What a pretty little find. Enjoy sitting on one of the many benches and just listen to the birds around you. Absolute bliss!

Tip by

Save

Musselburgh Lagoons

Highlight • Lake

The lagoons here were originally dumping grounds for the ash from Cockenzie Power Station. The sea wall was created to allow the ash to settle and over time with help …

Tip by

Save

Gladhouse Reservoir Road

Highlight (Segment) • Lake

Small, quite broken in places, but swoops down past the reservoir and only a short climb back up. Nice alternative to going north from Gladhouse.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Tynewater.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Tynewater

Road Cycling Routes around Tynewater

Cycling around Tynewater

MTB Trails around Tynewater

Running Trails around Tynewater

Hiking around Tynewater

Gravel biking around Tynewater

Tips from the Community

Anindya
April 26, 2025, Gladhouse Reservoir Scenic Road Section

Absolutely gorgeous reservoir, great to cycle by, or to stop and enjoy your ride-food while looking at the water.

0

0

Sylwia
October 14, 2024, Dr Neil's Garden

Free entry. Leave donation if you can

0

0

DH
October 9, 2024, Dr Neil's Garden

A gem of garden art behind Duddingston Kirk. The garden is open all year round, the café only during the flowering season.

Translated by Google

1

0

Grace Mulligan
September 25, 2024, Duddingston Loch

Duddington Loch is a freshwater lake nestled at the foot of Arthur's Seat. It's an important habitat for various bird species particular during migration seasons. In the nearby village of Duddingston you can visit the historic Duddingston Kirk which dates back to the 12th century.

2

0

Gladhouse Reservoir is just a short drive from Edinburgh and just to the west of the Moorfoot Hills. This peaceful wildlife haven offers visitors great hiking and cycling opportunities. This back-lane road section is no exception. This is a good connecting section between the Gladhouse Plantation on the west side of the reservoir and Rosebery Reservoir a few miles to the north. The road goes past the northern wooded shores of Gladhouse Reservoir, around the bottom of the dam, where just after you turn left or north for Rosebery Reservoir. It is a scenic, tranquil section that is a delight for the eyes and soul.

2

0

Absolutely lovely. Tremendous little sanctuary with a few artists & dreamers.

0

0

51m
April 14, 2023, Musselburgh Lagoons

The lagoons here were originally dumping grounds for the ash from Cockenzie Power Station. The sea wall was created to allow the ash to settle and over time with help from the owners Scottish Power and the RSPB the old pits have been capped and landscaped to create important wetland habitat. The area is now managed by the RSPB and has become one of the best areas in mainland Scotland to watch birds.

0

0

A nice place to sit and reflect. Loads of birds around and very peaceful.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular lakes to visit around Tynewater?

The Tynewater region, near Edinburgh, offers several popular spots. Gladhouse Reservoir Scenic Road Section is known for hiking and cycling, while Duddingston Loch is a freshwater lake at the foot of Arthur's Seat, important for bird species. Musselburgh Lagoons is another popular area, managed by the RSPB and excellent for birdwatching.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see at the lakes around Tynewater?

You'll find diverse natural landscapes, including tranquil reservoirs like Gladhouse and Rosebery, freshwater lochs such as Duddingston, and coastal lagoons at Musselburgh. These areas are rich in wildlife, offering scenic views and important habitats for various bird species.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in the Tynewater area?

Visitors frequently praise the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, the scenic beauty, and the opportunities for wildlife observation, especially birdwatching. Many also enjoy the hiking and cycling routes available around the reservoirs.

Are there opportunities for cycling around the Tynewater lakes?

Yes, areas like the Gladhouse Reservoir Scenic Road Section offer great cycling opportunities with scenic, tranquil sections. The Rosebery Reservoir Rolling Road also provides a good route for cyclists.

Where can I go birdwatching near Tynewater?

The Tynewater area is excellent for birdwatching. Duddingston Loch is an important habitat for various bird species, particularly during migration seasons. Musselburgh Lagoons, managed by the RSPB, is recognized as one of the best areas in mainland Scotland for birdwatching.

Are there hiking trails near the lakes around Tynewater?

Absolutely. The region offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find easy hikes like the 'Path Along the Stream – Vogrie House loop' or 'Winton Castle loop'. For more options, explore the Hiking around Tynewater guide.

What other outdoor activities are available near the Tynewater lakes?

Beyond hiking and cycling, the Tynewater area is popular for running. There are various running trails, including easy and moderate routes like the 'Woodland Trail – Vogrie House loop'. You can find more details in the Running Trails around Tynewater guide.

Are the lakes around Tynewater suitable for families?

Many of the lakes and nearby attractions are family-friendly. For instance, Duddingston Loch and Musselburgh Lagoons are great for nature observation. Dr Neil's Garden, adjacent to Duddingston Loch, is also a peaceful spot for all ages.

Are there any historical or cultural sites near the Tynewater lakes?

Yes, near Duddingston Loch, you can visit the historic Duddingston Kirk, which dates back to the 12th century. Adjacent to the Kirk is Dr Neil's Garden, a beautiful and peaceful garden art sanctuary.

Is there public transport access to the lakes around Tynewater?

While specific public transport routes vary, many areas around Tynewater, being close to Edinburgh, are generally accessible by bus. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most direct routes to specific lake locations like Duddingston Loch or Musselburgh Lagoons.

Are the lakes around Tynewater dog-friendly?

Many outdoor areas around the Tynewater lakes are dog-friendly, especially for walks and trails. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in areas with wildlife, such as bird habitats at Duddingston Loch and Musselburgh Lagoons, and to follow local signage regarding dog access.

What is the best time to visit the lakes around Tynewater?

The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and birdwatching, with longer daylight hours. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, quiet walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.

Most popular routes around Tynewater

Road Cycling Routes around Tynewater

Most popular attractions around Tynewater

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found your perfect lake around Tynewater? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

Rosewell And DistrictRoslin / BilstonDamheadLoanhead And DistrictEdinburghPoltonhall And DistrictBonnyrigg / LasswadeMusselburgh And InvereskEast Calder And DistrictKirknewtonEskbank / NewbattleDanderhall And DistrictDalkeith And DistrictWhitecraigWallyfordNewtonBroxburnPumpherstonMayfield / EasthousesMid CalderWinchburghEcclesmachan And ThreemiletownPhilpstounWest Calder And HarburnLadywellUphall StationCraigshillKnightsridgeBridgendLinlithgow And Linlithgow Bridge

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Ormiston

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy