4.4
(20)
1,063
runners
50
runs
Jogging routes around Colinton offer a mix of urban green spaces and access to the nearby Pentland Hills. The area is characterized by the Water of Leith, which provides riverside paths, and undulating terrain leading to higher ground. Runners can find trails that traverse woodlands, open fields, and suburban paths.
Last updated: November 6, 2026
5.0
(3)
140
runners
11.6km
01:25
300m
300m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
88
runners
5.51km
00:35
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.

5.0
(1)
72
runners
11.4km
01:35
430m
430m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
62
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
46
runners
7.18km
00:45
70m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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A little bumpy underwheel, probably fine on bigger tyres but a slightly sloggy way to enter or exit Edinburgh. Better entering as its slightly downhill all the way from Balerno
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Cycle-friendly segment of the Water of Leith walkway. It's a nice cruise through the woods despite being directly in the city. Be sure to check out the Colinson Tunnel murals on the south end.
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My plotted John Muir Way route took me to the Aquaduct, as the route to the Water of Leith Visitor centre is below, but to get there on this route you have to go down a long step section of steps. If your bike is loaded like mine was, 500m before this point there is a badly waymarked variation avoiding the steps, that goes through a street to the centre to rejoin the route.
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Great descent on a gravel bike, smooth but with some little drops from the occasional step. Very fun!
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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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There are over 50 dedicated running routes around Colinton, offering a diverse range of trails for all abilities. This includes 6 easy routes, 24 moderate routes, and 22 difficult routes.
Yes, Colinton offers several easy jogging routes perfect for beginners. You can find 6 routes specifically rated as easy. These often follow the gentler paths along the Water of Leith or through local parks.
Many of the running routes in Colinton are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Cockit Hat Plantation loop from Colinton is a moderate 3.4-mile (5.5 km) circular trail through woodlands, ideal for a shorter run.
For longer runs, the Torphin Wall Path – Bavelaw Castle Drive loop from Colinton is an excellent option. This challenging route spans 14.4 miles (23.1 km) and features significant elevation gain, taking you through varied landscapes.
Absolutely. Many routes in and around Colinton provide stunning views, especially those that climb into the Pentland Hills. For example, routes near View of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth or Corstorphine Hill Tower can offer panoramic vistas.
Running routes in Colinton feature a mix of terrain. You'll find riverside paths along the Water of Leith, undulating trails through woodlands and open fields, and more challenging climbs into the Pentland Hills. Surfaces can range from paved paths to dirt trails.
Yes, Colinton has several routes suitable for families, particularly the easier and shorter trails. These often stick to well-maintained paths in local parks or along the Water of Leith, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.
The running routes in Colinton are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. Runners often praise the area's diverse landscapes, from tranquil riverside paths to challenging hill climbs, and the well-marked trails.
Many routes in the Colinton area offer access to beautiful natural spots. You might find yourself running near reservoirs like Glencorse Reservoir or Torduff Reservoir, or even catch glimpses of iconic landmarks like Arthur's Seat in the distance from higher ground.
A popular moderate-difficulty option is the Torphin Wall Path loop from Colinton. This 7.2-mile (11.7 km) path offers an engaging experience through varied terrain, typically completed in about 1 hour 23 minutes.
Yes, some routes extend beyond Colinton, connecting to wider Edinburgh. For instance, The Meadows – Colinton Tunnel Murals loop from Colinton is a 16.5 km route that takes you towards the city center, passing by notable urban features and green spaces.
Running routes in Colinton vary significantly in length. You can find shorter loops around 3-5 km, such as the Cockit Hat Plantation loop (5.5 km), up to longer, more challenging runs exceeding 20 km, like the Torphin Wall Path – Bavelaw Castle Drive loop (23.1 km).


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