4.6
(1899)
28,795
hikers
83
hikes
Easy hiking trails around New Town/Broughton, Edinburgh, offer a blend of urban pathways and accessible natural features. The area is characterized by its proximity to the Water of Leith, providing tranquil riverside paths, and notable hills like Calton Hill, which offer panoramic city views. This region integrates green spaces and historic sites, making it suitable for varied walking experiences within the city.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
5.0
(8)
119
hikers
4.85km
01:15
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
61
hikers
5.95km
01:35
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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78
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
57
hikers
3.36km
00:56
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
53
hikers
4.04km
01:04
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Beautiful walk in the middle of Edinburgh to relax.
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No longer a real insider tip, it's still considerably quieter than the New Town and especially the Old Town. Plan some time; there's no rush here; so many pretty little corners/buildings/bridges are waiting to be explored! There's even a waterfall. An extremely picturesque neighborhood, partly cobblestoned.
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It's actually a well! It was once believed that the water here had healing powers and could cure arthritis and poor eyesight. Another fun fact: the well is mentioned in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Either way, it's a beautiful spot by the river and a little different, a place that not everyone knows about yet.
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OK, to grab a coffee to go at the entrance or exit and rest on a bench. But it's not really a highlight for me.
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Admission is free, but donations are requested at the exit. Now in August, not much is in bloom, but we enjoyed the tranquility, the overall scenery, the many shady benches, and the connection between nature and art – a definite recommendation.
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Very special view from here
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1
This is one of the most crowded sections of the Leith Water Trail. The entire trail is worth walking and seeing, and other parts are quieter.
2
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New Town/Broughton offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 60 routes specifically categorized as easy. These trails provide diverse experiences, from riverside strolls to urban green space explorations.
Easy hikes in New Town/Broughton blend urban charm with accessible natural features. You'll find tranquil riverside paths along the Water of Leith, urban green spaces like those explored in the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – Rock Garden loop from Edinburgh, and scenic viewpoints from hills like Calton Hill.
Yes, many of the easy hiking trails in New Town/Broughton are circular, offering convenient loops back to your starting point. Examples include the St Bernard's Well – Dean Village Waterfall loop from Edinburgh and the St Cuthbert's Kirkyard – St John's Church, Edinburgh loop from Edinburgh.
Easy hikes in the area often pass by significant landmarks and natural features. You can explore the historic Dean Village, visit St Bernard's Well, or enjoy views from Nelson Monument on Calton Hill. Some routes also offer glimpses of Arthur's Seat and the Scott Monument.
Given its central location within Edinburgh, many easy trails in New Town/Broughton are highly accessible by public transport. Buses serve various points around the New Town, making it easy to reach trailheads without a car.
Parking in central Edinburgh can be limited and often metered. For easy hikes within New Town/Broughton, it's often more convenient to use public transport. If driving, look for public car parks or on-street parking, but be aware of restrictions and costs.
Many of the riverside paths along the Water of Leith and routes through urban green spaces like the Royal Botanic Garden are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for prams or those seeking accessible options. The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – Rock Garden loop from Edinburgh is a good example.
Absolutely. The easy trails, particularly those through parks and along the Water of Leith, are ideal for families. They offer gentle terrain, interesting sights like Dean Village, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, making them engaging for children.
Many easy trails in New Town/Broughton are dog-friendly, especially those in parks and along the Water of Leith. However, always keep dogs on a lead, particularly in urban areas, and be mindful of local signage regarding dog access in specific gardens or nature reserves.
Yes, several easy walks in New Town/Broughton are integrated with the city's amenities. Routes like the McNaughtan's Bookshop – Artisan Coffee loop from Edinburgh are designed to pass by local cafes and shops, perfect for a refreshment stop.
Spring and summer (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for easy hiking in New Town/Broughton, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can be crisp but may involve colder, wetter conditions.
For easy hikes in New Town/Broughton, comfortable walking shoes are essential. Dress in layers to adapt to Edinburgh's changeable weather, and consider a waterproof jacket, even on seemingly clear days. Sun protection is also advisable during sunnier months.
The easy trails in New Town/Broughton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessibility, the blend of urban and natural scenery, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable walks.


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