CityBuddy
Pentland Hills Regional Park Hike
Best time to visit
Late spring to early autumn for drier paths, longer daylight and blooming heather; aim for early morning or late afternoon for best light and fewer people.
Budget tips
Access to the park is free; some car parks may charge, so use public transport or arrive early to find free roadside parking, and bring refillable water and snacks to save money.
Recommended for
Day hikers, Trail runners, Photography enthusiasts, Families with older children
Plan your visit
3-5 hours
About
Quick facts: Heather-speckled moorland and rocky ridges give way to grassy summits, with paths that thread past reservoirs and flocks of hardy sheep. Trail options range from easy 2-km strolls to full ridge routes that climb roughly 579 meters, so hikers can tailor outings by time and energy.
Highlights: Morning mists often pool in the valleys, while Scald Law's 579-meter summit pierces the clouds, offering a raw 360-degree panorama that can include the Firth of Forth and Bass Rock on very clear days. Local runners and walkers mark the small trig point with stacked stones as an informal tradition, the cairns sometimes reaching waist height and adding a human, tactile contrast to the wind-scoured heather.
Insider tips
- Wear waterproof boots and layered clothing, conditions change quickly on exposed ridges.
- Aim for Scald Law or Carnethy Hill at sunrise or sunset for the strongest panoramas and photographs.
- Expect parking at Flotterstone and Hillend to fill on weekends, so arrive early or use public transport.
- Carry a map or offline GPX and allow extra time for boggy sections after rain.
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Tip: We strongly recommend a free walking tour on your first day to get to know the city with a local guide. They usually cover all main attractions and you can ask for personal recommendations based on your interests for the next days. Book early as spaces fill up fast!
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