Walking in the Pentland Hills

Explore the rich landscapes and hidden heritage of Scotland’s Pentland Hills with 30 inspiring circular walks through Edinburgh’s local uplands. Discover softly rounded summits, quiet waterside paths, rocky valleys, and woodland trails, all within easy reach of the capital. From gentle strolls to challenging ridge walks, these routes showcase the Pentlands’ diverse geology, fascinating archaeology, literary connections, and stunning views, making them perfect for walkers of all abilities and ideal for year-round exploration. Ideal for both new and seasoned walkers, this definitive Cicerone guidebook features 30 circular routes ranging from 3 to 27km (2–17 miles), each designed to be completed in 1–8 hours. Enjoy easy access from Edinburgh, Penicuik, West Linton, Lanark, and Biggar, with highlights including the summits of Scald Law and Carnethy Hill, as well as tranquil reservoir-side strolls and remote southern routes for those seeking a wilder experience. Experience the best of the Pentland Hills, from undulating ridge walks and deeply incised valleys to quiet lochs, wooded glens, and ancient archaeological remains. Enjoy year-round walking in the Pentlands, with routes graded from easy valley strolls and gentle hill rambles to more challenging hikes in the open, exposed southern hills, suitable for every ability and season. Choose from 30 varied Pentland walks, each with a 1:50,000 OS map extract, route summary, start and finish points, estimated walking time, detailed information on geology, wildlife, cultural history, and local accommodation options. Discover the area’s rich natural and cultural heritage, with routes featuring castles, archaeological sites, place names, dialect words, and literary connections to Allan Ramsay, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Walks range from accessible family-friendly circuits to longer, more remote adventures for experienced hikers, showcasing the full variety of the Pentlands’ landscape and wildlife in every season. Explore a walker’s paradise with excellent public transport links and accommodation options in Edinburgh, Penicuik, West Linton, and Lanark, making planning and access simple. Plan your Pentland Hills adventure with confidence and discover one of Scotland’s most accessible and rewarding walking areas, at your own pace, in every season. With this comprehensive Cicerone guidebook, enjoy summit vistas, tranquil waters, and the rich tapestry of history and wildlife in Edinburgh’s local hills.