The best walks and hikes around Fairmilehead
4.6
(1087)
16,839
hikers
78
hikes
Hikes around Fairmilehead provide direct access to the Pentland Hills Regional Park, located on the southern edge of Edinburgh. The area is characterized by a network of paths across rolling hills, with routes ascending to prominent viewpoints like Caerketton Hill and Allermuir Hill. The landscape also includes woodland sections and reservoirs, offering a variety of terrain for walkers starting from trailheads near the city.
Best hiking trails around Fairmilehead
- The most popular hiking route is Caerketton Hill & Allermuir Hill loop from Lothianburn — Pentland Hills, a 3.5 mile (5.7 km) trail that takes about 2 hours to complete. This route involves a steady ascent to summits with expansive views over Edinburgh and the surrounding area.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is View from Allermuir Hill – Caerketton Hill loop from Hunter's Tryst, a moderate 7.9 mile (12.7 km) path. The trail combines hill ascents with paths through the lower-lying areas of the regional park.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Caerketton Hill loop from Lothianburn — Pentland Hills, a 2.3 mile (3.7 km) trail leading to the summit of Caerketton Hill, often completed in about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Fairmilehead is defined by accessible hill climbs, well-trodden ridgelines, and paths through woodland and around reservoirs. The network of trails in the Pentland Hills offers routes suitable for different fitness levels, from short ascents to longer, more challenging hikes.
- The routes in Fairmilehead are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 3,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Fairmilehead's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.7
(47)
310
hikers
5.68km
02:00
310m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
4
hikers
3.75km
01:28
280m
280m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(9)
93
hikers
12.7km
03:54
430m
430m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
62
hikers
27.9km
10:17
1,490m
1,490m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(4)
86
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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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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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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
How do I get to the Pentland Hills from Fairmilehead using public transport?
Several Lothian bus routes serve the Fairmilehead area, with stops conveniently located near trailheads. You can take a bus to access starting points like Lothianburn or Bonaly, which serve as gateways into the Pentland Hills Regional Park. This makes it easy to begin your hike without needing a car.
Is there parking available for hiking in the Pentland Hills near Fairmilehead?
Yes, parking is available at several key trailheads. You can find car parks at Bonaly Country Park and near the Lothianburn ski slope, both offering direct access to the hills. These car parks are popular and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so it's a good idea to arrive early.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
The region offers several options for families. A gentle walk around Harlaw Reservoir is a popular choice. For a bit more of a climb with rewarding views, the Caerketton Hill loop from Lothianburn is an easy-rated 3.7 km trail that's manageable for most.
Can I take my dog on hikes around Fairmilehead?
Yes, the trails in and around the Pentland Hills are very popular for dog walking. The open hillsides and woodland paths provide plenty of space. It's recommended to keep dogs under control, especially near livestock which graze in the hills, and to be mindful of other walkers.
What are some good circular walks starting near Fairmilehead?
The area is excellent for circular hikes. A great moderate option is the Caerketton Hill & Allermuir Hill loop from Lothianburn, which covers two summits with fantastic views. For a longer day out, the View from Allermuir Hill – Caerketton Hill loop from Hunter's Tryst offers a more extensive 12.7 km circuit.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced walkers?
For those seeking a strenuous challenge, the ascent to the highest peaks in the Pentlands is a great option. The Carnethy Hill – Scald Law Summit loop from Fairmilehead is a difficult-rated route that involves significant elevation gain and rewards hikers with a fantastic ridge-walking experience and expansive views.
What kind of views can I expect from the hills?
The summits in the Pentland Hills, such as Allermuir Hill and Caerketton Hill, offer superb panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see across the entire city of Edinburgh, including landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and Arthur's Seat, as well as over the Firth of Forth to Fife.
Are there any woodland walks near Fairmilehead?
Yes, you can find lovely woodland trails in the area. Bonaly Country Park features a mix of woodland and open moorland, with paths running through pine forests. The Hermitage of Braid, a short distance away, is a highly-regarded nature reserve with a peaceful path following the Braid Burn through a wooded glen.
How many hiking trails are there around Fairmilehead?
There are over 70 designated hiking routes to explore around Fairmilehead. These range from easy strolls in local parks to challenging ascents in the Pentland Hills, offering options for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails in this area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers often praise the accessibility from the city, the well-maintained paths, and the stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh and the surrounding Lothians from the hilltops.
What are some popular places for hiking around Fairmilehead?
The main destination is the Pentland Hills Regional Park, a vast area of rolling hills with over 100km of paths. Other popular spots include:
- Bonaly Country Park: A tranquil gateway to the Pentlands, loved for its mix of woodland and moorland.
- Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill: A local nature reserve offering beautiful riverside walks and excellent city views from Blackford Hill.
- Braid Hills: Known for the Seven Hills Viewpoint, this area provides some of the best, most direct views of the Edinburgh skyline.
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