Walking in the Pentland Hills : 30 walks in Edinburgh's local 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. This definitive guidebook features 30 circular routes ranging from 3 to 27km (2–17 miles), each designed to be completed in 1–8 hours. Routes are graded from easy valley strolls and gentle hill rambles to more challenging hikes in the open, exposed southern hills. Highlights include the summits of Scald Law and Carnethy Hill, tranquil reservoir-side strolls, and remote southern routes for those seeking a wilder experience. Each walk includes a 1:50,000 OS map extract, route summary, start and finish points, estimated walking time, and 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, and literary connections to Allan Ramsay, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Enjoy excellent access from Edinburgh, Penicuik, West Linton, Lanark, and Biggar, with accommodation and transport options making planning simple. Whether you're a new walker seeking accessible family-friendly circuits or an experienced hiker ready for longer, remote adventures, the Pentland Hills offer one of Scotland's most rewarding walking areas to explore at your own pace, in every season.