The best walks and hikes around Hutchison/Chesser

Yes, the area is well-suited for circular walks. Many routes combine sections of the Union Canal towpath with the Water of Leith walkway to create convenient loops. A good example is the Edinburgh Market Archway loop from Shandon, which offers a pleasant walk through the area's green corridors.

Absolutely. The majority of trails in this area are rated as easy, featuring minimal elevation gain and following well-maintained riverside paths and canal towpaths. Out of more than 30 routes, 19 are classified as easy, making it an ideal location for beginners and family outings.

Yes, the paths along the Water of Leith and the Union Canal are generally great for dog walking. These routes offer plenty of space and are popular with local dog owners. However, be mindful that you'll be sharing the paths with cyclists and other walkers, so it's best to keep your dog under control.

The hikes are defined by tranquil, green urban corridors. You can expect to walk through quiet wooded valleys known as dells, follow the peaceful Water of Leith, and stroll along the historic Union Canal towpath. It's a great way to experience nature without leaving the city.

While the area is known for its easy walks, there are a dozen moderate routes for those seeking a bit more distance. These trails often link several green spaces together, allowing for hikes over 5 miles (8 km). They remain relatively flat but provide a longer walking experience.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the wooded dells and the unique experience of walking through the decorated Colinton Tunnel.

For fantastic panoramic views of Edinburgh, a short trip to the Corstorphine Hill Local Nature Reserve is highly recommended. It's a popular spot with locals and features a tower you can ascend for an even better vantage point over the city.

The Water of Leith is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for herons, dippers, and kingfishers along the river. The surrounding woodlands of the Colinton and Craiglockhart Dells are home to various songbirds, and you might even spot roe deer if you're walking early in the morning.

The area is very well-served by Edinburgh's public transport. Numerous Lothian Bus routes stop along Slateford Road, Gorgie Road, and Lanark Road, providing easy access to the Water of Leith, the Union Canal, and various trailheads. Slateford railway station is also located right by the Slateford Aqueduct.

Yes, the Union Canal towpath is a great option for a pram-friendly walk. It is wide, flat, and has a paved surface for most of its length, making it easily accessible. The Slateford Aqueduct – Water of Leith Visitor Centre loop from Murrayfield Stadium also includes sections that are suitable for prams.

Yes, the trails are rich with history. You can walk across the impressive Slateford Aqueduct, which carries the Union Canal over the Water of Leith. The canal itself is a historic waterway, and you'll also pass by old mill buildings in the dells that hint at the area's industrial past.