4.7
(429)
2,616
hikers
42
hikes
Hiking around Liberton And District, a suburb in southern Edinburgh, offers diverse outdoor activities across its parks and greenspaces. The area features significant natural elements such as Inch Park, Craigmillar Castle Park, and Little France Park, which are recognized as Local Biodiversity Sites. These spaces include native woodlands, wetlands, and species-rich grasslands, supporting varied wildlife. The historic Braid Burn also flows through the district, adding to its natural character.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
5.0
(3)
87
hikers
6.75km
01:53
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
57
hikers
5.84km
01:33
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(8)
24
hikers
9.97km
02:51
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
28
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
hikers
4.12km
01:06
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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It is good going clockwise (East) on the lower section, more technical coming down from the top heading West
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From the top of Blackford Hill
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Great views of pentlands, Arthur’s Seat and city of Edinburgh
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Best view of the city, sea and Pentlands in my opinion
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You get very good views of Edinburgh when you are on these single tracks on the side of The Braids Hill. The surfaces are compact enough, not too much mud and decent grip. There are walkers using the same tracks but it was far from congested late February
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Blackford Hill, at 164 meters high, is an unmissable natural highlight in Edinburgh. Situated between Morningside and the Braid Hills, this hill offers one of the most breathtaking views of the Edinburgh skyline, including the iconic Arthur's Seat and the picturesque east coast. For hikers, walkers and nature lovers, Blackford Hill is a perfect destination to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while enjoying Edinburgh's charms from a unique perspective. The climb up Blackford Hill is relatively easy and accessible to people of all fitness levels. The peaks are reached via a variety of trails that lead through the picturesque landscape of the 60.3 hectare Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Nature Reserve. This area, which also includes Hermitage House, is a true gem for nature lovers and, in addition to the spectacular views, offers a wealth of flora and fauna as well as numerous bird species that can be observed here. There's really no wrong time to visit Blackford Hill. Each season offers a unique experience - from the fresh green of spring to the warm colors of autumn to the quiet beauty of winter. However, a visit at sunrise or sunset is particularly magical, when the light bathes the city and surrounding landscapes in a golden or pink glow. As far as equipment is concerned, sturdy shoes are recommended due to the partly uneven paths. It can also be quite windy at the summit, so a windproof jacket is recommended, especially outside the summer months. Binoculars can also be useful for enjoying birdlife or detailed city views. Not only is Blackford Hill a fantastic place for a hike or picnic, but it is also a wonderful spot for photography enthusiasts who want to capture the beauty of Edinburgh.
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The "Buck Stane", built into a garden wall, is 3'4" in height, 15" across the widest face, and 11" thick, but it has no distinctive features. It is traditionally associated with the Barony of Penicuik and the royal hunts on the Boroughmuir (1753). According to a plaque, the Buck Stane marked the place where the buckhounds were unleashed when the King of Scotland hunted in the region. https://canmore.org.uk/site/51760/edinburgh-braid-road-the-buck-stane
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There are over 40 hiking trails in Liberton And District, ranging from easy strolls through local parks to more moderate routes exploring the diverse greenspaces. The area offers a variety of options for different skill levels.
The majority of hikes in Liberton And District are considered easy, with 31 out of 44 routes falling into this category. There are also 12 moderate trails and one difficult route, providing options for various fitness levels.
Yes, Liberton And District is well-suited for family walks, particularly within its numerous parks and greenspaces like Inch Park and Little France Park. These areas often feature gentle terrain and natural beauty, perfect for an outing with children. Many of the easy routes are suitable for families.
Many of the greenspaces and trails in Liberton And District are dog-friendly, offering ample opportunities for walks with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is under control and check for any specific local regulations regarding leash requirements, especially in biodiversity sites like Craigmillar Castle Park.
While hiking in Liberton And District, you can enjoy the historic Braid Burn, native woodlands, and wetlands. For broader views, consider routes that offer glimpses towards the Firth of Forth. Nearby, you can also find significant viewpoints like Corstorphine Hill Tower or views from Blackford Hill, which are popular objectives for hikers in the wider Edinburgh region.
Yes, many of the trails in Liberton And District are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Buckstone Snab Summit – View Across to Fife loop from Alnwickhill, which offers scenic views and a convenient return to your starting location.
Liberton And District offers pleasant hiking opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and summer bring lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, many of the trails remain accessible, though conditions can be wetter. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse urban greenspaces, native woodlands, and the peaceful atmosphere found within the district's parks. The variety of easy to moderate routes is also frequently highlighted.
Yes, Liberton And District has historical elements. The area features the historic Braid Burn and structures like Liberton Tower, a well-preserved 15th-century tower house, and Liberton House, a 16th-century fortified house. These can be interesting points to explore during or after your hike.
Hike durations vary depending on the route. For example, the easy Hermitage of Braid House – Masses of Balsam loop from Liberton takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, while the moderate Buckstone Snab Summit – Hermitage of Braid House loop from Alnwickhill can take around 2 hours 50 minutes.
As a suburb of Edinburgh, Liberton And District is generally well-served by public transport, particularly local bus routes. This makes it convenient to access various parks and trailheads without needing a car. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and stops near your desired starting point.
While popular, the numerous parks and greenspaces like Inch Park, Craigmillar Castle Park, and Little France Park offer ample space, allowing for a more tranquil experience, especially during off-peak hours. Exploring some of the lesser-known paths within these larger areas can also lead to quieter walks.


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