The 11 Most Amazing Peaks around Drylaw/Telford
Best mountain peaks around Drylaw/Telford are found in the wider Edinburgh area, offering accessible natural escapes from the city. While Drylaw/Telford itself is a residential area, nearby hills and "mini-mountains" provide picturesque views and recreational opportunities. These geological features are often referred to as peaks in a local context, providing significant natural amenities close to the city. The region offers diverse landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best mountain peaks around Drylaw/Telford
- The most popular mountain peaks is Arthur's Seat, a summit that dominates Holyrood Park and rewards with commanding views across the Edinburgh region. This ancient volcano rises dramatically above the capital city and is a popular objective with various routes to the top.
- Another must-see spot is View from Allermuir Hill, a viewpoint within the Pentland Hills. Visitors can expect superb views toward Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and on clear days, even the Fife and Scottish Highlands.
- Visitors also love Caerketton Hill, a summit on the edge of the Pentland Hills. This hill offers fantastic views over Edinburgh and Arthur's Seat to the east, providing an easily accessible hike with tremendous views in all directions.
- Drylaw/Telford is known for prominent hills, viewpoints, and summits. The area offers a variety of mountain peaks to see and explore, ranging from accessible urban hills to more challenging routes in the Pentland Hills.
- The mountain peaks around Drylaw/Telford are appreciated by the komoot community. The area has received more than 1200 upvotes and features over 800 photos from visitors.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Arthur's Seat
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Corstorphine Hill Tower
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It's irregularly opened to the public in the summer months as from the top there are incredible views to be had over the city.
Read more at: corstorphinehill.org.uk/about-the-hill.html
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View from Allermuir Hill
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View of Edinburgh from Blackford Hill
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The climb up Blackford Hill is relatively easy and accessible to people of all fitness levels. The peaks are reached via a variety of trails that lead through the picturesque landscape of the 60.3 hectare Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Nature Reserve. This area, which also includes Hermitage House, is a true gem for nature lovers and, in addition to the spectacular views, offers a wealth of flora and fauna as well as numerous bird species that can be observed here.
There's really no wrong time to visit Blackford Hill. Each season offers a unique experience - from the fresh green of spring to the warm colors of autumn to the quiet beauty of winter. However, a visit at sunrise or sunset is particularly magical, when the light bathes the city and surrounding landscapes in a golden or pink glow.
As far as equipment is concerned, sturdy shoes are recommended due to the partly uneven paths. It can also be quite windy at the summit, so a windproof jacket is recommended, especially outside the summer months. Binoculars can also be useful for enjoying birdlife or detailed city views.
Not only is Blackford Hill a fantastic place for a hike or picnic, but it is also a wonderful spot for photography enthusiasts who want to capture the beauty of Edinburgh.
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Caerketton Hill
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From the edge of the city it provides an easily accessible hike in a few hours, with tremendous views on all sides. The going isn't too tough, with decent paths throughout. Enjoy!!
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Tips from the Community
This is how some 200 years ago, bookworms began: "In that lovely district of merry England, which is watered by the River Don, there was in ancient times a great wood... Here dwelt... the fabulous Dragon of Wantley; here were fought several of the bloodiest battles during the Rose Civil Wars..." Through translations, Scott's fame on the British Isles soon spread throughout Europe, even to the New World. The author, who continued to publish his books anonymously, with the reference "By the Author of Waverley," naturally rejoiced in his hiding place over the success – until, by chance, it was revealed that he, Walter Scott, was the author. The honors in Scotland were endless. The toast Lord Meadowbank made at a banquet held in Scott's honor in 1827 remains valid in Scotland to this day: "The beauties of our country... and the fame of our ancestors have been carried by him beyond the shores of this island, to the ends of the earth. He has... immortalized the name of Scotland..." (Text from https://www.deutschlandfunk.de/250-geburtstag-des-schriftstellers-wie-sir-walter-scott-den-100.html )
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The Pentland Hills (a range of hills south of Edinburgh) offer countless hiking opportunities. One of the "best" (= the northernmost) is Allermuir Hill. There are many paths up the mountain, but the best route is undoubtedly the panoramic route from the Midlothian Snowsports Center parking lot to the summit. The center is...???...interesting... (Skiing on mats in the summer is also possible!), and the summit offers magnificent views in all directions!
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This is one of the most prominent hills of the Pentland Hills. You have superb views toward Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and on clear days, even the Fife and Scottish Highlands. The walk to the summit is moderate, and you'll be walking through diverse landscapes from grassy slopes to more rugged and rocky sections near the top.
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Sitting on the very edge of the Pentland Hills, with a great view over Edinburgh and Arthur's Seat to the east, it's a fantastic hike from the city. From the edge of the city it provides an easily accessible hike in a few hours, with tremendous views on all sides. The going isn't too tough, with decent paths throughout. Enjoy!!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most prominent hills and viewpoints near Drylaw/Telford?
While Drylaw/Telford itself is residential, the wider Edinburgh area boasts several notable hills. Among the most popular are Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano offering commanding views, and Allermuir Hill in the Pentland Hills, known for superb views towards Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. Caerketton Hill also provides fantastic vistas over Edinburgh, and Blackford Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline.
What kind of terrain and elevation can I expect on these hills?
The hills near Drylaw/Telford offer a variety of terrain. For instance, Blackford Hill, at 164 meters, has relatively easy and accessible paths. Caerketton Hill (478 meters) has decent paths throughout, while Allermuir Hill (493 meters) involves walking through diverse landscapes from grassy slopes to more rugged and rocky sections near the top. Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano, has uneven paths and can be steep in sections, requiring sturdy footwear.
Are there easy mountain walks suitable for beginners near Drylaw/Telford?
Yes, several hills offer relatively easy climbs suitable for beginners. Blackford Hill is considered easy and accessible for most fitness levels, making it perfect for a leisurely escape. Caerketton Hill also offers an easily accessible hike with decent paths, and its ascent to the top typically takes around 30 minutes.
Are there family-friendly walks among the peaks near Drylaw/Telford?
Many of the hills provide excellent options for families. The climb up Blackford Hill is accessible for people of all fitness levels, and its nature reserve offers diverse flora and fauna. Arthur's Seat also has plenty of routes to the top, some suitable for 'little legs and future Munro baggers,' though sturdy shoes are recommended due to uneven paths.
When is the best time to visit the hills and peaks near Drylaw/Telford?
Each season offers a unique experience. Spring brings fresh greenery, autumn vibrant colors, and winter a quiet beauty. However, a visit at sunrise or sunset is particularly magical, bathing the city and landscapes in a golden or pink glow. While there's no wrong time, be prepared for potentially windy conditions at the summits, especially outside summer months.
Are there any historical landmarks or unique features on these hills?
Yes, several hills feature historical or unique landmarks. On Blackford Hill, you'll find the Royal Observatory, Edinburgh. Corstorphine Hill Tower, also known as Clermiston Tower, stands at the summit of Corstorphine Hill as a memorial to Sir Walter Scott. This tower occasionally opens to the public during summer months, offering incredible city views.
What outdoor activities can I do near the mountain peaks around Drylaw/Telford?
Beyond hiking and walking, the area around Drylaw/Telford offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking routes, including moderate loops like Silverknowes Beach – Cramond Island Causeway. For runners, there are running trails such as the Inverleith Park Pond loop. Gravel biking enthusiasts can find challenging routes like the Auld Reekie ride out from Edinburgh.
What should I wear when hiking the peaks near Drylaw/Telford?
Sturdy shoes are highly recommended due to the partly uneven paths on many of the hills. It can also be quite windy at the summits, so a windproof jacket is advisable, especially outside the summer months. For Arthur's Seat, packing something to drink is essential, and a hat and scarf can be useful in windy conditions.
How accessible are these peaks by public transport or car?
Many of the hills are easily accessible from Edinburgh. The Pentland Hills, which include Allermuir Hill and Caerketton Hill, are just 20 minutes from the city center, making them convenient for day trips. Blackford Hill is situated between Morningside and the Braid Hills, also within easy reach of the city.
What do visitors enjoy most about the mountain peaks around Drylaw/Telford?
Visitors consistently praise the incredible panoramic views offered by these peaks, especially of the Edinburgh skyline, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding Scottish countryside. The accessibility of these natural escapes from the city, combined with diverse landscapes and opportunities for physical activity, are also highly valued. The area has received over 1200 upvotes and features more than 800 photos from visitors, highlighting its popularity and scenic beauty.
Are the trails around Drylaw/Telford's peaks dog-friendly?
Generally, the natural areas and hills around Edinburgh, including those near Drylaw/Telford, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserves like the Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill, to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other visitors. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
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