The best walks and hikes around Colinton
4.6
(2927)
36,916
hikers
62
hikes
Hikes around Colinton offer a mix of gentle riverside paths and more challenging hill walks. The area is defined by the Water of Leith, which flows through the wooded gorge of Colinton Dell. Just south of the village, the landscape rises into the Pentland Hills Regional Park, providing access to higher elevation routes and expansive views over the city.
Best hiking trails around Colinton
- The most popular hiking route is Craiglockhart Grotto – Colinton Tunnel Murals loop from Colinton, a 4.6 mile (7.5 km) trail that takes about 2 hours to complete. This route follows the Water of Leith and features the Colinton Tunnel mural.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is View from Allermuir Hill – Caerketton Hill loop from Bonaly, a moderate 8.2 mile (13.2 km) path. The trail involves an ascent to the summit of Allermuir Hill for views across the region.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Bonaly Country Park loop — Pentland Hills Regional Park, a 6.1 mile (9.8 km) trail leading through Bonaly Country Park, often completed in about 2 hours 45 minutes.
- Hiking around Colinton is defined by wooded riverside dells, former railway paths, and the rolling slopes of the Pentland Hills. The network of trails provides options for both leisurely walks and more strenuous hill climbs.
- The routes in Colinton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 390 reviews. More than 3,200 hikers have used komoot to explore Colinton's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 29, 2026
4.9
(55)
285
hikers
9.80km
02:48
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(10)
44
hikers
13.6km
04:16
520m
520m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
49
hikers
9.42km
03:00
370m
370m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
31
hikers
7.26km
01:58
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.8
(5)
49
hikers
7.40km
02:02
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Colinton
Tips from the Community
A super nice tunnel that makes for a good photo stop. A great addition to your cycle journey through Edinburgh.
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This is a super photo stop. The tunnel is beautifully decorated with striking murals and is illuminated too so it sheds a bit more light on the topic!
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Colinton?
Yes, there's a wide variety of trails. You can explore over 60 different routes in the area, ranging from easy riverside strolls to more demanding hikes in the Pentland Hills.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the Colinton area?
The trails around Colinton are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the beautiful contrast between the sheltered, wooded paths in Colinton Dell and the open, expansive views from the Pentland Hills.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks near Colinton?
Absolutely. The walk through Colinton Dell along the Water of Leith is a popular choice for families. The paths are relatively level and lead to the Colinton Tunnel, which features a vibrant mural that children often enjoy.
Can I take my dog on the trails around Colinton?
Yes, the area is very dog-friendly. The Water of Leith Walkway is a great option for a walk with your dog. For more space to run, the open slopes of Bonaly Country Park and the wider Pentland Hills Regional Park are local favourites for dog walkers.
Are there any good circular hikes starting from Colinton?
The Torduff Reservoir – View from Torduff Hill loop from Bonaly is an excellent circular option. This moderate route takes you around the scenic reservoir and up Torduff Hill for rewarding views, offering a complete loop back to your starting area.
How can I get to the Colinton trails using public transport?
Colinton is well-served by Edinburgh's bus network. Several Lothian Buses routes stop in or near Colinton village, providing easy access to the start of the Water of Leith Walkway and trails leading towards the Pentland Hills.
What is the Colinton Tunnel and is it on a walking route?
The Colinton Tunnel is a former Victorian railway tunnel that has been transformed into Scotland's largest historical mural, depicting a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson. You can walk right through it as part of the Craiglockhart Grotto – Colinton Tunnel Murals loop from Colinton.
Where can I find the best views of Edinburgh?
For panoramic views of the city, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding Lothians, the trails in the Pentland Hills are your best bet. The summit of Allermuir Hill, accessible via routes like the View from Allermuir Hill – Allermuir Hill loop from Bonaly, is a well-known viewpoint.
Are there any challenging hikes for more experienced walkers?
Yes, for a more strenuous day out, consider the View from Allermuir Hill – Caerketton Hill loop from Bonaly. This 13 km route involves a significant amount of ascent and rewards you with a ridgeline walk between two of the main Pentland peaks.
What are some popular places for hiking in the Colinton area?
Several spots are highly regarded by local hikers. Pentland Hills Regional Park is the main destination for classic hillwalking with stunning views. Colinton Dell offers beautiful, sheltered woodland walks along the river. For a dedicated hiking area with great city views, many people also head to Corstorphine Hill Local Nature Reserve.
What is the terrain like in Bonaly Country Park?
Bonaly Country Park serves as a gateway to the Pentlands and offers varied terrain. You'll find a mix of well-marked paths, grassy slopes, and some steeper, more rugged sections as you climb higher. The Bonaly Country Park loop is a great way to experience this variety.
Are there any pubs or cafes to visit after a hike?
Colinton village itself has a charming, historic centre where you can find several pubs and cafes. They are conveniently located for a refreshment after a walk along the Water of Leith or upon returning from the Pentland Hills.
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