The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Colinton

There are over 45 family-friendly hiking routes around Colinton, with 12 of these specifically rated as easy, making them ideal for families with younger children or those seeking a more relaxed outing. The remaining routes are moderate, offering a bit more challenge for active families.

Colinton offers a wonderful variety of landscapes for family hikes. You can explore charming riverside paths along the Water of Leith, wander through the tranquil, wooded gorge of Colinton Dell, or venture into the rolling slopes of the Pentland Hills Regional Park for more expansive views. Many trails also follow former railway paths, adding a unique historical touch.

Absolutely! A highlight for families is the Colinton Tunnel Murals, a former railway tunnel beautifully decorated with striking artwork, which is part of the Craiglockhart Grotto – Colinton Tunnel Murals loop. You can also find scenic viewpoints like the View from Allermuir Hill, offering panoramic vistas over the city and surrounding hills.

Yes, many of the trails are gentle and well-suited for beginners and families with toddlers. The riverside paths along the Water of Leith and within Colinton Dell are generally flat and easy to navigate. Look for routes specifically marked as 'easy' in our guide for the most suitable options.

Yes, several excellent circular routes are available. For example, the Bonaly Country Park loop offers a great circular option within the Pentland Hills, providing varied terrain and beautiful scenery. Another popular choice is the Craiglockhart Grotto – Colinton Tunnel Murals loop, which is a fantastic circular walk along the Water of Leith.

The family-friendly trails around Colinton are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from nearly 2,900 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the engaging attractions like the Colinton Tunnel Murals, making them perfect for a family day out.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails around Colinton, especially on the paths along the Water of Leith and within the Pentland Hills Regional Park. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in nature reserves, near livestock, or in busy areas, and to clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Colinton's trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer offers lush greenery and longer daylight hours. Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage, and even winter can be magical with crisp air and occasional snow, though some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

The Water of Leith walkway and Colinton Dell are excellent for wildlife spotting. The riverside environment attracts various bird species, and you might even spot small mammals. The tranquil, wooded areas provide a natural habitat for local fauna, making it a great educational experience for children.

Colinton is well-served by public transport from Edinburgh city centre. Many bus routes stop directly in Colinton village, providing convenient access to the Water of Leith walkway and other local trailheads. For trails further into the Pentland Hills, you might need to combine a bus journey with a short walk to the starting point.

For families with older children looking for a greater challenge, routes like the Bonaly Reservoir – View from Allermuir Hill loop from Colinton offer more significant elevation gain and longer distances, providing a rewarding experience with stunning views from the Pentland Hills.