You have to admit - the Scottish capital
is a bit of a beauty. Whether you're traipsing around the city,
delighting in its glorious gardens and historical buildings (maybe
even partaking in a ghost tour), or lapping up the luscious
landscapes on the outskirts, it's a real treat for the eyes. But if
you're looking for the very best trails? Lace up your comfiest
shoes and grab coffee, or a dram for later, as
we've rounded up the 10 best walks Edinburgh has to offer.
🌳🚶⛰️
Our Favourite Walks In Edinburgh
1. Water Of Leith Walkway
- Where: Damside, Edinburgh EH4 3BE
Winding through the capital, past some of its most iconic sites, the Water of Leith Walkway is ideal for those of you who fancy a peaceful escape from the city - without ever leaving. Start at Slateford and along the way, you’ll pass a mix of historic and scenic gems - like the grand Dean Village, a picture-perfect cluster of 19th-century mill buildings that once powered Edinburgh’s industry, and the striking St Bernard’s Well, a neoclassical temple hiding a natural spring once believed to have healing powers.
Further along, the walkway weaves past the elegant Stockbridge area, where you can pause for a coffee or browse its charming Sunday market, before continuing towards the lively Shore in Leith. Here, the river meets the Firth of Forth, offering waterside pubs, seafood spots, and a glimpse of the Royal Yacht Britannia.
Feel at one with nature on this pretty trail.
2. Inverleith Park And The Royal Botanic Garden
- Where: Inverleith Row, Edinburgh EH3 5LR
Bringing a healthy dose of greenery to the city centre is Inverleith Park and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Expect luscious, foliage-lined paths, a glimmering pond with elegant flocks of swans and one of the largest plant collections on the planet.
Start with a leisurely stroll around Inverleith Park, where open meadows, a peaceful pond, and a perfectly placed hill provide a stunning panoramic look at Edinburgh’s skyline - Arthur’s Seat, the Castle, and the Old Town all lined up like a postcard. It’s a prime spot for picnics, dog walks, or simply soaking up the city’s beauty from a quiet, leafy retreat. Cross the road, and you’ll step into the enchanting Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a world-class oasis of exotic plants, towering trees, and themed gardens dating back to 1670.
Meander through the lavish gardens and explore the lush Victorian-era glasshouses.
3. Princes Street Gardens
- Where: Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2HG
When it comes to the best walks in Edinburgh city centre, a stroll around Princes Street Gardens certainly wouldn’t go amiss. The urban oasis was originally created by draining Nor Loch, and now? It separates the Old Town from the New, boasting blooming flower beds and the famed Ross Fountain.
Split into East and West Gardens, the park offers a scenic, tree-lined escape from the city’s bustle, all while keeping you surrounded by Edinburgh’s dramatic skyline. In winter, it transforms into a festive wonderland with twinkling lights and Christmas markets, while in summer, it’s the perfect picnic spot with live music drifting from the Ross Bandstand.
If you fancy circular walks in Edinburgh, you can go from Princes Street Gardens to Calton Hill.
4. Portobello Beach
- Where: 1 Promenade, Edinburgh EH15 2DX
Nestled on the coast of Edinburgh, Portobello Beach is the place to go for a tranquil jaunt down the seafront revelling in that oh-so-fresh air. Just a short bus ride from Edinburgh’s centre, this charming coastal stretch offers golden sands, a lively promenade, and unbeatable views across the Firth of Forth.
As you wander along the promenade, you’ll pass colourful Victorian and Georgian houses, friendly cafés, and even the occasional brave soul taking a dip in the chilly North Sea. Keep an eye out for paddleboarders and kayakers making the most of the waves, or, if you're feeling adventurous, pop into The Beach House for a coffee and some of the best cakes in town. When you’re done plodding along the two miles of golden sands, head back into the vibrant town, where you’ll find idyllic Georgian architecture.
This is simply one of the best coastal walks near Edinburgh, especially when you have your dog with you.
5. Calton Hill
- Where: Edinburgh, EH7 5BN
For sweeping views of the city’s skyline, whack on your most sensible shoes and ascend Calton Hill. To really get your steps in, and have the chance to soak up the capital's sites along the way, we recommend starting at Waverly Rail Station. Once you’ve reached the peak, you’ll be treated to some seriously killer vistas, stretching from Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat to the Firth of Forth.
But it’s not just about the vistas - Calton Hill is dotted with striking monuments, giving it an almost ancient, mythical feel. The National Monument, an unfinished Parthenon-inspired structure, adds a touch of Athens to Edinburgh, while the Nelson Monument, shaped like an upturned telescope, commemorates the famous naval victory at Trafalgar. It’s also home to the Collective Gallery, where contemporary art meets stunning surroundings.
Head up Calton Hill for a close-up of the National Monument of Scotland.
6. The Royal Mile
- Where: Edinburgh, EH1 1QS
While pounding the pavement might not be your first idea of a relaxing stroll, The Royal Mile is more than just a busy succession of streets; the notable thoroughfare guides you past some of the city's most remarkable buildings. Stretching from the mighty Edinburgh Castle down to the grand Palace of Holyroodhouse, this ancient thoroughfare is a treasure trove of historic landmarks, hidden closes, and lively street performers.
As you stroll along the cobbled road, you’ll pass centuries-old buildings, atmospheric wynds (alleyways), and legendary spots like St Giles’ Cathedral, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh Castle, Scottish Parliament and the eerie Real Mary King’s Close, where Edinburgh’s ghostly past lingers beneath your feet.
Even locals will admit that the Royal Mile (pictured) is a pretty scenic walk.
7. Arthur’s Seat
- Where: Holyrood Park, Edinburgh, EH2 2DG
Whether you’re a tourist visiting the city or a long-time local, Arthur’s Seat is legendary. Not only is this fabled to be the location of King Arthur’s Camelot, but the ancient volcano also showcases unbeatable panoramas of the surrounding landscapes. The climb to the top isn’t too demanding (though it’ll get your heart pumping), and the reward is well worth it: sweeping vistas of the city skyline, the Firth of Forth, and beyond.
There are multiple routes to the summit, from the gentler Salisbury Crags path to the steeper direct ascent, each offering its own unique perspective of the landscape. Along the way, you’ll pass wildflower-dotted meadows, hidden lochs, and even the ruins of St Anthony’s Chapel, a mysterious 15th-century structure.
Make sure to bring your camera to Arthur's Seat so you can take lots of snaps.
8. Roslin Glen Country Park
- Where: 78 Crusader Drive, Roslin, EH25 9PX
Roslin Glen Country Park sits on the outskirts of the capital, offering one of the best woodland walks going. Embark on an atmospheric pootle and discover scenic meadows, ruins reclaimed by nature and an abundance of wildlife, from badgers to buzzards. Following the banks of the River North Esk, the trails here feel almost fairytale-like, with towering trees, moss-covered rocks, and the sound of birdsong filling the air.
The glen is home to the atmospheric Roslin Castle, its ancient stone remains blending seamlessly into the landscape, and the world-famous Rosslyn Chapel, a 15th-century masterpiece shrouded in mystery and Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code fame. The park’s trails are perfect for a gentle stroll or a longer hike, with plenty of scenic spots to stop and admire the views.
Ruins and bridges make up Roslin Glen Country Park.
9. Craigmillar Castle Park
- Where: Old Dalkeith Road, Edinburgh EH16 4TB
Make your way to the south east of the city where Craigmillar Castle Park awaits. Escape the hustle and bustle at this natural heritage site, rambling through the old quarries. Bit of a history buff? Explore the well-preserved, medieval castle, which happens to have links to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Surrounding the ruins, the park itself is a peaceful haven of rolling meadows, ancient woodlands, and crisscrossing trails perfect for a relaxed stroll or a more adventurous walk. Keep an eye out for wildlife, from birds of prey soaring overhead to deer quietly grazing among the trees.
Honestly - doesn't this woodland look magical?
10. Hermitage Of Braid And Blackford Hill
- Where: Hermitage of Braid, Edinburgh, EH9 3HJ
Make the most of the great outdoors by roaming around Hermitage of Baird and Black Hill. Flaunting a gorgeous local nature reserve, including a picturesque river valley, a serene forest and a pretty peak with lofty views, it's a total stunner. Start your journey at the Hermitage of Braid, a lovely wooded glen that winds alongside the Braid Burn, with moss-covered trees and the occasional peaceful bridge crossing the river. It’s the perfect spot to take a breather and enjoy the tranquillity of the park.
From there, take the short but rewarding climb up Blackford Hill, where the views really open up. At the summit, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of Edinburgh, from the iconic Arthur’s Seat and the Castle to the Firth of Forth and the Pentland Hills. The hill is also home to the Royal Observatory, a stunning historic building with a fascinating past.
Hermitage house and lush fields feature in this walk.
Looking for more walks around
Edinburgh? Discover the prettiest streets in
Edinburgh.
