Attractions and Places To See around Carlops - Top 20

Carlops is nestled within the picturesque Pentland Hills, offering a wealth of natural beauty. You can explore significant peaks like Scald Law Summit, the highest point in the Pentlands, and Carnethy Hill, both providing expansive views. Other notable features include the picturesque Glencorse Reservoir, the steep-sided Green Cleugh Valley, and ancient geological formations like the Carlops Meltwater Channels and Windy Gowl. Don't miss Peggy's Pool, a secluded waterfall, or the Patie's Mill Outflow Waterfall.

Carlops and its surroundings are rich in history. The village itself features the historic Allan Ramsay Hotel, dating back to 1792, and many original Weaver's Cottages, reflecting its past as a cotton weaving settlement. Nearby, you can find Newhall House, an estate with origins in the 13th century, and the Sillar Holes, medieval lead and silver mines. Unique cottages named Trafalgar and Waterloo also commemorate local residents who fought in these famous battles.

Yes, the Pentland Hills offer several challenging hiking opportunities. The ascent to Scald Law Summit, the highest peak, involves some rough sections but clear paths, often with strong winds at the top. Carnethy Hill also presents a good challenge with rewarding views. For specific challenging routes, you can explore options like the 'North Esk Reservoir, The Mount & East Cairn Hill loop from Carlops' which is rated difficult. Find more challenging hiking routes on the Hiking around Carlops guide.

For those seeking less strenuous walks, Carlops offers several easy routes. A good option is the 'View of Rural Landscape – Waterfall and Old Mill loop from Carlops', which is rated as easy. The areas around Glencorse Reservoir also provide picturesque and generally flatter paths suitable for a relaxed stroll. You can discover more easy walks on the Hiking around Carlops guide.

Beyond hiking, Carlops is an excellent base for various outdoor activities. The Pentland Hills are popular for cycling, including road cycling and gravel biking. You can find numerous routes, such as the 'Neidpath Castle – Peebles to Eddleston Bike Path loop from Carlops' for road cycling, or the 'Balerno Hill Summit – The Red Road, Pentland Hills loop from Carlops' for gravel biking. Explore more options on the Road Cycling Routes around Carlops and Gravel biking around Carlops guides.

Yes, Carlops offers family-friendly options. The area around Glencorse Reservoir is considered family-friendly, with relatively easy paths and beautiful scenery. Exploring the village itself, with its historic Weaver's Cottages and the Allan Ramsay Hotel, can also be an engaging activity for families. Look for easy-rated walks on komoot's guides for routes suitable for all ages.

The Pentland Hills, including the area around Carlops, are generally very dog-friendly. Many trails welcome dogs, but it's important to keep them under control, especially near livestock. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which advises keeping dogs on a lead or under close control around farm animals and during lambing season. Ensure you carry water for your dog, especially on longer hikes.

Carlops typically has parking available within the village or at designated trailheads for accessing the Pentland Hills. Specific parking areas for popular walks are often signposted. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for the most current parking information and any potential fees or restrictions.

Yes, Carlops has options for refreshments. The historic Allan Ramsay Hotel, dating back to 1792, is a central feature of the village and offers a place to eat and drink. There may also be local cafes or other establishments, providing a welcoming spot to relax after exploring the hills.

Visitors consistently praise the expansive and stunning views from the Pentland Hills. From Scald Law Summit, you can see over the near and far hills, while Carnethy Hill offers panoramic vistas over the Pentlands, Edinburgh, and far across Scotland. Castlelaw Hill also provides superb views to the surrounding Pentlands and all the way to the Moorfoots and Borders hills. The ever-changing light and weather conditions add to the dramatic scenery.

The best time to visit Carlops for outdoor activities largely depends on your preference. Spring and summer (April to September) offer milder weather, longer daylight hours, and vibrant landscapes, ideal for hiking and cycling. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. Winter can be challenging, with potential snow and ice on higher peaks, but offers a unique, serene experience for well-equipped adventurers. Always check weather forecasts, as conditions in the Pentland Hills can change rapidly.

Yes, Carlops is a great starting point for several circular walking routes. These routes allow you to explore the diverse landscapes of the Pentland Hills and return to your starting point without retracing your steps. Examples include the 'North Esk Reservoir – North Esk Reservoir loop from Carlops' and the 'View of Rural Landscape – Waterfall and Old Mill loop from Carlops'. You can find more detailed circular routes on the Hiking around Carlops guide.