It might be cold outside, but that’s no excuse not to wrap up warm, and enjoy the great outdoors. What’s more, you don’t even need to stray too far from home. There are lots of beautiful walks to enjoy within a couple miles of our School gates.
Our Head of Outdoor Learning, Dave Ogilvie, has recommended a few of his favourite trails.
Arthur’s Seat
A favourite with tourists, it’s incredible the number of Edinburghers who haven’t actually been up Arthur’s Seat! The serious walkers can start from the foot at Holyrood Palace, and little legs can join the trail halfway up, where there is a car park. Temperatures can drop at the top, so make sure you take plenty of layers, and enough fluids and snacks to keep everyone going.
Water of Leith
Did you know you can join the Water of Leith from behind Old College? There is an entry point down by the Galleries, so why not arrange to meet some friends at a familiar spot and head off for a wander. This is a gentle walk with lots of entry and exit points. Keep going to Leith and you could enjoy a sweet treat at the Shore!
River Almond Walkway
The 6.6K walk around the River Almond, from Crammond and back, is a beautiful trail. You’ll find yourself exploring some of the leafier suburbs of Edinburgh as you snake your way along the river path. If it’s been wet, sections can be muddy, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear!
Union Canal
Another easy stroll, there are lots of points at which you can join the Union Canal. The canal towpath makes up part of the long-distance walking route, the John Muir Way. Heading out of town, if you are keen for a full day out, you can walk the full 28 miles to reach The Kelpies. You can also join in the West End and head towards the centre of town for a shorter stroll.
Blackford Hill and the Braid Hills
Blackford Hill and The Hermitage is a beautiful nature reserve in Morningside. You can follow the Braid Burn for 2 miles or take a short climb to the top of Blackford Hill. Not far away, you’ll find the Braid Hills, the southernmost of the Seven Hills of Edinburgh, which provides a scenic, circular walk, taking in some beautiful views across Edinburgh.
Corstorphine Hill
A popular sledging location, Corstorphine Hill will be familiar to many of our families. Great for dog walks and plenty of space to run around, you can also catch the sunset on a winter’s day, and if you’re lucky you might even spot the zebras in the zoo! Sections can be icy over the winter months, so take care and ascend slowly.
We hope we’ve inspired a few of you to head out for a winter stroll over the holidays. Wherever you choose to wander, make sure you wrap up warm, plan your route, and crucially, take note of where the coffee and cake stops are along your choosen path!