4.6
(2408)
31,863
hikers
46
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Grange/Prestonfield offer access to a diverse landscape within Edinburgh, characterized by prominent natural features. The area includes the iconic extinct volcano Arthur's Seat, rising to 823 feet (251 meters), and the dramatic Salisbury Crags. Holyrood Park encompasses hills, glens, and three freshwater lochs, providing a varied terrain. Nearby Blackford Hill and the wooded Hermitage of Braid offer additional natural spaces for exploration.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.9
(8)
81
hikers
10.6km
02:55
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
77
hikers
8.39km
02:14
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(8)
23
hikers
10.6km
03:04
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
36
hikers
19.0km
05:07
240m
240m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
36
hikers
5.52km
01:48
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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An excellent base for visiting Scotland's mystical capital city.
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A lively place, with good pubs...
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Recommendation
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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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In the Stockbridge district, you'll find this photogenic cobblestone alley. The former stables of the New Town's stately homes have been converted into charming cottages. Ivy and roses climb, and flower boxes are everywhere—the whole thing creates a delightful, very romantic scene.
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One of the most distinctive places in Edinburgh. Note that a staircase on the right leads to the upper level. It's fascinating how one row of houses stands above another here.
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There are around 50 hiking trails in Grange/Prestonfield that are easily accessible from bus stations. These routes offer a convenient way to explore the area without a car, with 28 easy, 21 moderate, and 1 difficult option to choose from.
Yes, Grange/Prestonfield offers several easy, family-friendly walks accessible by bus. The area's parks, like The Meadows, provide gentle paths suitable for all ages. A great option is the Meadow Walk, The Meadows – The Meadows loop from Southside, which is an easy 7.2 km route starting directly from a bus stop.
Many of the bus-accessible routes in Grange/Prestonfield are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop. For instance, the Arthur's Seat – View of Edinburgh loop from Edinburgh is a moderate 5.9 km circular hike offering stunning city views, easily reached by public transport.
The trails around Grange/Prestonfield offer diverse and spectacular views. From the iconic Arthur's Seat, you can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding countryside. Other routes, like those around Blackford Hill, also provide excellent city vistas, while walks through areas like Hermitage of Braid offer tranquil natural scenery.
Absolutely. Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat are rich in history, featuring Iron Age forts and the medieval ruins of St Anthony's Chapel. You can also explore the city's historic architecture on routes like the St Giles' Cathedral – Scott Monument loop from Southside, which takes you past significant Edinburgh landmarks.
While the immediate bus-accessible trails might not lead directly to major waterfalls, the wider Grange/Prestonfield area is close to several beautiful water features. You can find highlights like Dunsapie Loch within Holyrood Park, which is often part of routes around Arthur's Seat. For more dedicated waterfall exploration, consider guides focusing on waterfalls around Grange/Prestonfield, which may require a short additional journey.
The bus-accessible trails in Grange/Prestonfield are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 350 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the convenience of starting directly from public transport, the stunning city views, and the diverse landscapes that make you feel like you're in the Highlands, right within the city.
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are longer and more difficult routes. The Victoria Street – Scott Monument loop from Historic Environment Scotland is a difficult 18.8 km hike with significant elevation gain, offering an extensive exploration of Edinburgh's urban and natural landscapes, all reachable by bus.
Many of the natural areas around Grange/Prestonfield, including Holyrood Park and Hermitage of Braid, are dog-friendly. Always check local signage for specific rules, especially regarding lead requirements, and ensure your dog is comfortable with public transport if you plan to use it to reach the trailhead.
Grange/Prestonfield's trails can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings blooming flora, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Summer is popular for longer days and warmer weather, though trails can be busy. Winter hikes can be stunning, especially with snow on Arthur's Seat, but require appropriate gear for potentially icy or muddy conditions. Always check weather forecasts before heading out.
While popular spots like Arthur's Seat can get busy, areas like the Hermitage of Braid and Grange Valley Nature Reserve offer a more tranquil experience. Consider the Buckstone Snab Summit – Royal Observatory, Edinburgh loop from Southside, which explores Blackford Hill and the Royal Observatory, providing a mix of views and quieter paths, easily reached by bus.


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