The best walks and hikes around Mercat Cross

Yes, for a family-friendly outing, consider the paths in Holyrood Park. A walk around St Margaret's Loch or Duddingston Loch is relatively flat and offers chances to see birdlife. For a bit more of a challenge with great rewards, the paths leading up to Salisbury Crags provide stunning city views without the full ascent of Arthur's Seat.

Many of the hiking areas near Edinburgh, such as Holyrood Park and the Pentland Hills, are great for walking with dogs. However, you should be mindful of local regulations. In Holyrood Park, dogs must be kept under control, especially around wildlife and steep cliffs. In the Pentlands, be aware of livestock and keep your dog on a lead where required.

From the Mercat Cross on the Royal Mile, Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat are within walking distance—simply head east down the Royal Mile. For the Pentland Hills Regional Park, you'll need to take a short bus ride from the city centre. Several bus services run to the various access points of the park.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Pentland Hills offer more strenuous routes. The 'Five Peaks' ridge walk is a classic, covering the main summits like Scald Law and Carnethy Hill. These trails involve significant elevation gain and require good fitness and navigation skills.

The scenery is remarkably varied. You can experience dramatic city panoramas from the top of Arthur's Seat and Salisbury Crags, historic ruins like St. Anthony's Chapel, and peaceful lochs within Holyrood Park. Further afield, the Pentland Hills offer classic rolling countryside, expansive reservoirs, and a more rugged, wild landscape.

Yes, many popular routes are loops. In Holyrood Park, you can complete a rewarding circular walk that takes you along the base of the Salisbury Crags and up to the summit of Arthur's Seat. In the Pentland Hills, the Stirling War Memorial – Stirling Baptist Church loop from Stirling is a well-regarded option that circuits two reservoirs.

The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Hikers often praise the unique combination of city history and accessible, rugged nature. The views from the summits of Arthur's Seat and the Pentland Hills are frequently mentioned as a major highlight.

Absolutely. The Stirling Castle – Stirling Old Town Jail loop from Stirling is a fantastic option that takes you through the historic heart of the city, passing by major landmarks. Many paths in Holyrood Park also have historical significance, taking you past the 15th-century ruins of St. Anthony's Chapel.

There are over 25 curated hiking routes to explore in the area. These range from easy city walks to more demanding hill climbs, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.

Yes, the path along the top of the Salisbury Crags in Holyrood Park is a relatively easy walk that offers some of the best views of Edinburgh's Old Town and castle. It's a great alternative if you don't want to climb all the way up Arthur's Seat.

For something different, the Animal Carvings Bench – Scottish Animal Sculptures loop from Stirling is a moderate trail that features unique animal sculptures carved from wood along the path, adding an artistic element to your hike.