4.6
(2011)
29,470
hikers
913
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Drylaw/Telford offer a mix of coastal paths, urban green spaces, and river walks suitable for all ages. The area features accessible routes along the Firth of Forth coastline, providing views of the sea and nearby islands. Inland, paths follow waterways and traverse through established city parks and residential areas, ensuring varied scenery for short walks. The terrain is generally gentle, with minimal elevation changes, making it ideal for families seeking easy outdoor exploration.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.3
(3)
32
hikers
11.1km
02:56
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
7.58km
02:00
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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13
hikers
8.97km
02:22
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
4.14km
01:06
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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At low tide, you can walk over to the island. Relaxing short hike along the sea wall.
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Beautiful walk in the middle of Edinburgh to relax.
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No longer a real insider tip, it is still significantly quieter than in the New Town and especially in the Old Town. Plan some time, nothing happens in a hurry here, so many pretty little corners/buildings/bridges want to be explored! There is even a waterfall. An extremely picturesque district, partly with cobblestones
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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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Best photographed from above the waterfall side by the bench
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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.
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Leith Walk is a street elsewhere in the city. The bridge is over the Water of Leith.
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There are over 550 easy-rated family-friendly hiking trails around Drylaw/Telford, with a total of more than 900 routes suitable for various skill levels. These routes offer a fantastic way to explore the area with your loved ones.
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes are circular, making them convenient for outings. For example, the Silverknowes Beach – Cramond Island Causeway loop from Muirhouse offers a scenic coastal experience, and the Dean Village Waterfall – St Bernard's Well loop from Drylaw provides a charming urban nature walk.
Many trails around Drylaw/Telford are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check individual route details for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock. Generally, paths along the coast and through parks are welcoming to well-behaved dogs on a lead.
Absolutely! The Dean Village Waterfall – St Bernard's Well loop from Drylaw is a perfect example, taking you past the picturesque Dean Village Waterfall. The wider region also boasts diverse natural features, from coastal paths to rolling hills and wooded areas, offering plenty of scenic beauty.
The area is rich in both natural and historical landmarks. You can explore iconic sites like Arthur's Seat, enjoy views from Corstorphine Hill Tower, or discover historical architecture such as St Giles' Cathedral and the Scott Monument. Many routes also pass through charming areas like Victoria Street.
While many paths are gentle, not all are suitable for pushchairs due to varied terrain. We recommend checking the route descriptions and difficulty ratings. Look for trails marked as 'easy' and those that specify paved or well-maintained gravel paths for the best pushchair experience. Coastal promenades, for instance, are often a good choice.
Spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for family hikes, with longer daylight hours and blooming flora. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the landscape. Even winter can be enjoyable for a crisp walk, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially muddy conditions. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.
Many popular trailheads and attractions in the Drylaw/Telford area offer designated parking facilities, often free or with a small charge. For routes starting in residential areas, street parking might be available. We recommend checking the specific route details on komoot for parking information near your chosen starting point.
Yes, the Drylaw/Telford area is well-served by public transport, particularly buses, making many trailheads accessible without a car. Routes starting closer to urban centers or popular attractions often have bus stops nearby. Plan your journey using local transport apps or websites to find the most convenient connections.
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly routes around Drylaw/Telford, with an average score of 4.65 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of many trails, making them perfect for enjoyable family outings.
To find less crowded options, consider hiking during off-peak hours (early mornings or late afternoons) or on weekdays. Exploring some of the slightly longer 'moderate' routes, such as the Silverknowes Beach – Roman Fort Remains loop from Muirhouse, might also lead you to quieter sections away from the busiest spots.
Many family-friendly routes in the Drylaw/Telford area pass by or are close to cafes, pubs, or picnic spots, especially those near coastal areas or charming villages. For example, walks along Silverknowes Beach or through Dean Village offer opportunities for refreshments. Check the route map for points of interest along the way.


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