The best walks and hikes around Threipmuir Reservoir
4.6
(1454)
13,814
hikers
413
hikes
Hikes around Threipmuir Reservoir explore the landscape at the base of the Pentland Hills near Edinburgh. The area is characterized by the reservoir's shoreline, adjacent woodlands, and open moorland. Many routes climb into the rolling hills, offering wider views of the surrounding countryside and the adjacent Harlaw Reservoir.
Best hiking trails around Threipmuir Reservoir
- The most popular hiking route is West & East Kip plus Scald Law loop from Threipmuir Reservoir โ Pentland Hills, a 7.7 mile (12.4 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 56 minutes to complete. This route involves ascents to several local peaks within the Pentland Hills.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Hare Hill loop from Threipmuir Reservoir โ Pentland Hills, a moderate 5.5 mile (8.9 km) path. The trail features a mix of reservoir paths and a climb to the summit of Hare Hill.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Redford Bridge โ Harlaw Reservoir loop from Red Moss of Balerno Wildlife Reserve, a 6.3 mile (10.1 km) trail leading through the Red Moss Nature Reserve, often completed in about 2 hours 44 minutes.
- Hiking around Threipmuir Reservoir is defined by reservoir shorelines, open moorland, and rolling hill ascents. The network of paths provides options for both gentle walks and more challenging hikes into the Pentland Hills.
- The routes in Threipmuir Reservoir are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 1,300 reviews. More than 13,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Threipmuir Reservoir's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
4.9
(109)
665
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(48)
305
hikers
16.3km
04:27
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(47)
147
hikers
13.8km
04:22
440m
440m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(7)
49
hikers
8.93km
02:33
200m
200m
Hike the moderate 5.5-mile Hare Hill loop from Threipmuir Reservoir in the Pentland Hills, offering panoramic views and varied terrain.
4.9
(29)
221
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Stunning views. Path gets very gravelly so care needed if you are less experienced off-road
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After the peaks it's all flat terrain and definitely more busy on a dry day. Walk the way back after the last peak if you prefer the challenge of it.
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Harlaw Reservoir is a popular spot for outdoor activities including walking, fishing, and wildlife watching. One of the highlights is a small embankment on the far side of the reservoir which offers stunning views of Threipmuir Reservoir. On weekends visitors you can get your hands on some homemade crepes from a local van parked near the Harlaw House Visitor Centre.
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Nestled amongst the Pentland Hills, Glencorse Reservoir is incredibly picturesque. It was built between 1820 and 1824 to provide water to mills in the area and supply drinking water to Edinburgh. Today, the reservoir still supplies water to 450,000 people. The reservoir was created by constructing a dam, which is 77 feet (23.5 m) at its highest point.
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Loganlea Reservoir was completed in 1851. It is fed by the logan Burn and the water then flows into the larger Glencorse Reservoir. It's one of a series of reservoirs in the Pentland Hills built in the 1800s to provide water for the growing city of Edinburgh. Loganlea reservoir is well positioned within the Pentlands, you can only see the hills from its banks.
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Redford Bridge crosses between Bravelaw Marsh to the west and Threipmuir Reservoir to the east. It's a useful access point to the Pentland Hills from the north.
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Hare Hill at 449 m is a small but prominent summit to the north of the main Pentland Hills ridge. From the summit there are great views north over Edinburgh and south into the Pentlands. It makes a nice short loop from Threipmuir Reservoir or can be tagged onto a longer loop including the Kips to the north.
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Harlaw Reservoir was constructed between 1843 and 1848, at the same time as the larger Threipmuir Reservoir upstream. It's a simple gravity earth dam construction that adds to the volume of water available for Edinburgh.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to park for hikes around Threipmuir Reservoir?
The main car park is located at Threipmuir Reservoir itself, providing direct access to many trails. Another option is the car park at the nearby Harlaw House Visitor Centre. Both can be very busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Are the trails around Threipmuir Reservoir suitable for dogs?
Yes, the Pentland Hills are a popular area for dog walking. The paths around the reservoirs and on the lower hills are generally dog-friendly. Please keep dogs under control, especially near livestock and during bird nesting seasons (typically April-July).
Can I get to Threipmuir Reservoir using public transport?
The reservoir is not served by a direct bus route. The nearest town with regular bus services from Edinburgh is Balerno. From Balerno, it is a walk of a few miles to reach the reservoir and the main trailheads.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
Yes, the area offers gentle walks suitable for families. A stroll along the banks of Threipmuir and the adjacent Harlaw Reservoir is a popular choice. For a unique nature experience, the Redford Bridge โ Harlaw Reservoir loop takes you through the Red Moss Nature Reserve, which features a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk over a rare raised bog.
What are the options for a more challenging hike with good views?
For experienced hikers seeking elevation and panoramic views, the trails into the Pentland Hills are ideal. The West & East Kip & Scald Law loop is a demanding but rewarding route that summits several of the highest peaks in the range, offering expansive views over the reservoirs and the Lothians.
Are there any circular walks available?
The area is excellent for circular hikes. A particularly scenic option is The Pentland Hills Reservoir loop, which combines the shorelines of Threipmuir, Harlaw, and Loganlea reservoirs into one extensive walk.
Can you swim in Threipmuir Reservoir?
Yes, Threipmuir Reservoir is a well-known and popular location for wild swimming. The calm, open water with the backdrop of the Pentland Hills makes it a scenic spot for a dip. It is also used for other water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking.
Are there any toilets or other facilities at the reservoir?
There are public toilets and a visitor centre available at the Harlaw Reservoir car park, which is adjacent to Threipmuir. There are no facilities at the Threipmuir car park itself.
What is the best time of year to visit Threipmuir Reservoir?
Threipmuir is beautiful year-round, but the scenery is particularly stunning in late summer when the heather on the surrounding Pentland Hills turns pink and purple. Spring offers lush green landscapes and the chance to see newborn lambs, while crisp autumn and winter days provide stark, dramatic views.
Is there a cafe or pub nearby for after a hike?
There are no cafes directly at the Threipmuir car park. The nearest options for food and drink are located in the nearby village of Balerno, which has a selection of pubs and cafes.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
The area is rich in wildlife. Around the reservoirs, you can spot various water birds like ducks and swans. The nearby Red Moss Nature Reserve is a designated Scottish Wildlife Trust site, home to unique plant life like sundews and a variety of birds. On the hills, you may see sheep and other typical moorland fauna.
How many hiking trails are there around Threipmuir Reservoir?
There are over 400 routes to explore in the area, ranging from easy shoreline strolls to difficult ascents into the Pentland Hills. The extensive network of paths ensures there are options for every fitness level and experience.
Most popular routes around Threipmuir Reservoir
Most popular attractions around Threipmuir Reservoir
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