Pentland Hills Regional Park
Pentland Hills Regional Park Hiking Guide: Trails, Tips, and Essential Information
Nestled just beyond the bustle of Edinburgh, Pentland Hills Regional Park unfolds in a patchwork of undulating green hills, wild heather-clad slopes, and sweeping moorland vistas. As you explore the winding trails, you’ll be treated to panoramic views stretching over sparkling reservoirs, peaceful valleys, and the jagged city skyline in the distance. The ever-changing Scottish weather adds drama to the scenery, with shifting clouds and dappled sunlight bringing the diverse landscape to life.
The park’s well-marked paths invite hikers of all levels to discover tranquil glens, upland peaks, and fields dotted with grazing sheep. With each step, you’re surrounded by the sights and sounds of native wildlife, the crisp highland air, and a rare sense of freedom that only the open hills can provide. Whether you’re seeking a challenging summit or a leisurely family outing, the Pentland Hills offer a refreshing escape for nature lovers year-round.
Route Overview
The most popular hiking route in Pentland Hills Regional Park forms a loop that typically begins and ends at the Flotterstone Visitor Centre, where parking, restrooms, and trail information are available. From Flotterstone, the trail leads past Glencorse Reservoir, ascends to the summit of Scald Law (the park’s highest point at 579 meters), and continues along a high ridge traversing key peaks such as Carnethy Hill and East Kip. The descent follows a path past Loganlea Reservoir before circling back towards the starting point.
This route covers approximately 15 kilometers and generally takes most hikers around 5 to 6 hours to complete, depending on pace and stops along the way. Trail surfaces include dirt, gravel, and rocky sections, with steep climbs and potentially muddy patches after rainfall. Good navigation skills are advised, especially if you branch off onto lesser-used trails or in poor weather. The loop is well-signposted in busier areas, but carrying a map or GPS is recommended for additional confidence on less frequented paths.
History of Pentland Hills Regional Park
The Pentland Hills have played a significant role in Scottish history, serving as a backdrop for ancient settlements and dramatic events. Archaeological evidence reveals that humans have inhabited this area for thousands of years, with Bronze Age burial cairns, prehistoric hut circles, and Roman forts dotting the hillsides. The network of trails you walk today often follows routes used by cattle drovers, farmers, and shepherds over the centuries, providing a tangible link to the region’s rural heritage.
Throughout the centuries, the Pentlands have witnessed battles and strategic gatherings. Notably, the area was the scene of the Pentland Rising of 1666, an important event in Scottish Covenanter history, when religious dissenters clashed with government forces at what is now known as the Battle of Rullion Green. The hills have inspired poets, artists, and writers with their rugged beauty and stories of resilience, making a hike through the Pentland Hills not just a journey through nature, but through time itself.
Notable highlights
Scald Law: The highest peak in the Pentland Hills, Scald Law offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Lothians and Edinburgh. The ascent is rewarding, with the summit providing a scenic vantage point ideal for photographs and a well-earned break.
Glencorse Reservoir: Nestled amid rolling hills, this picturesque reservoir is a tranquil spot to enjoy reflective water views and observe local birdlife. The gentle paths around the reservoir make it a popular waypoint for both families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Loganlea Reservoir: Further along the trail, Loganlea Reservoir is framed by rugged slopes and heather moorland. It’s a popular spot for anglers and offers a peaceful rest area with dramatic waterside scenery.
Flotterstone Visitor Centre: Situated at one of the main entrances to the park, this centre provides trail information, restrooms, and a café—making it an excellent place to begin or end your hike.
Carnethy Hill: Known for its distinctive shape and challenging climb, Carnethy Hill rewards hikers with extensive views west over the Pentlands, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Ancient Sites and Cairns: Along the way, keen-eyed hikers can spot remnants of prehistoric settlement, such as burial cairns and the faint traces of ancient field systems—silent witnesses to the region’s long human history.
Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including roe deer, mountain hares, red grouse, and a range of birds of prey. Early morning or evening hikes increase your chances of spotting these elusive animals.
Challenges to expect
The varied terrain of Pentland Hills Regional Park can present several challenges for hikers. Steep ascents, particularly on peaks like Scald Law and Carnethy Hill, require a good level of fitness and sure-footedness, while certain sections may become slippery and muddy after rain. The trail surface alternates between gravel, dirt, and rocky paths, so sturdy footwear is strongly recommended.
Weather in the Pentlands can change rapidly, even in the warmer months. Dense fog, strong winds, and sudden showers are not uncommon, making navigation and visibility difficult on exposed ridges. It’s essential to bring waterproof layers and pay close attention to weather forecasts before heading out. Some stretches of the trail traverse open moorland with limited shelter, so be prepared for exposure to the elements.
Waymarking is generally good near main paths and visitor centres, but less trodden routes can be harder to follow, especially in poor weather or low light. Carrying a detailed map or GPS device will help you stay on course, particularly if you venture away from the main routes.
United Kingdom 
England - Mountainous
- Dirt
- Rocky
- Gravel
- Campsites
- Wild camping spots
- Family Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Restrooms
- Water Sources
- Campsites
- Picnic Areas
Start your hike at the Flotterstone Visitor Centre, where amenities and trail maps are available. Head out on well-marked paths towards Glencorse Reservoir, enjoying gradual elevation gains before the path steepens as you ascend to the summit of Scald Law, the highest point in the Pentlands. Take in the panoramic views, then follow the ridge to reach Carnethy Hill and East Kip, traversing open moorland. The descent brings you to the tranquil Loganlea Reservoir and follows easy-to-navigate paths back around toward Flotterstone. Expect a mix of dirt, gravel, and rocky terrain, with some steeper climbs and potentially muddy areas, especially after rainfall. Navigation is straightforward on the main route, though carrying a map or GPS is still recommended for less trodden sections.