The best walks and hikes around Kirkliston

Yes, there's a wide variety with over 450 routes to explore in the Kirkliston area. The trails range from easy, family-friendly walks to more demanding moderate hikes, catering to all fitness levels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the mix of scenery, from the peaceful paths along the River Almond to the historic grounds of estates like Dalmeny and Cammo.

Many trails in the area are suitable for walking with a dog. Cammo Estate is a popular choice, offering a mix of woodlands and open fields where dogs can explore. Just be mindful of local signage, especially regarding wildlife and livestock on estate lands.

Definitely. The region is great for family outings. A fantastic option is the Cammo Estate Local Nature Reserve loop. It's a short, flat walk through a historic park with interesting ruins and plenty of space for kids to run around.

Yes, for a moderate circular route with impressive coastal scenery, the North Queensferry War Memorial – Rankin's Café loop from Scotstoun is an excellent choice. It provides fantastic views of the iconic Forth bridges and the surrounding coastline.

For walks along the River Almond, parking is often available at access points like the car park for Almondell & Calderwood Country Park or near Cramond village at the river mouth. For specific routes, check the 'Getting There' section on the komoot Tour page, which often includes parking suggestions.

For a more substantial hike, consider the Rankin's Café – Forth Road Bridge loop from The Forth Bridge WHS. This moderate trail is over 13 km and involves crossing the Forth Road Bridge, offering a unique perspective and a rewarding sense of achievement.

Besides the immediate trails, hikers often venture to nearby parks. A few local favorites include:

• Pentland Hills Regional Park: A highly-regarded area offering more strenuous hillwalking with stunning views over Edinburgh.
• Almondell and Calderwood Country Park: A popular choice for its well-maintained riverside and woodland trails.
• Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill: Known for its beautiful riverside valley and excellent city views from the hilltop.

Cammo Estate is very close to Kirkliston, just a short drive or cycle away. By car, it's typically less than 10 minutes. It's also accessible via local bus routes that run between Kirkliston and Edinburgh; you would get off on Maybury Road and walk a short distance to the entrance.

Yes, the area is rich in history. The walk through the Dalmeny Estate on the View of the Lake in the Park – Dalmeny House loop from Kirkliston takes you through historic landscaped parkland with views of Dalmeny House and Barnbougle Castle. Similarly, walks along the River Almond often pass by old mills and other industrial heritage sites.

Yes, many trailheads are accessible via public transport from Kirkliston. Bus services connect to South Queensferry for walks around the Forth bridges and Dalmeny Estate. Routes heading into Edinburgh provide access to areas like Cammo Estate and the River Almond Walkway.