The best walks and hikes around West Linton
4.6
(629)
5,222
hikers
25
hikes
Hikes around West Linton explore the landscape of the Scottish Borders, situated near the Pentland Hills Regional Park. The area is defined by rolling hills, river valleys like the Lyne Water, and several reservoirs including Baddinsgill. The network of trails includes historic drove roads and paths leading to summits such as Mount Maw and East Cairn Hill.
Best hiking trails around West Linton
- The most popular hiking route is the Mount Maw, The Mount & East Cairn Hill loop from Badinsgill Reservoir — Pentland Hills, a 8.1 mile (13.0 km) trail that takes about 4 hours to complete. This difficult route involves an ascent of 385 meters in the Pentland Hills.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is the Baddinsgill Reservoir – Catwalk Den Wood loop from West Linton, a moderate 7.3 mile (11.8 km) path. The route features a mix of reservoir-side paths and woodland sections.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Baddinsgill Reservoir – Baddingshill Farm Stone Walls loop from Pentland Hills, a 5.4 mile (8.7 km) trail leading through open countryside, often completed in about 2 hours 20 minutes.
- Hiking around West Linton is defined by rolling hills, reservoirs, and paths through the Pentland Hills. The network of West Linton walking trails offers options for different ability levels, from moderate reservoir loops to more demanding hill climbs.
- The routes in West Linton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 1,500 hikers have used komoot to explore West Linton's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.7
(3)
50
hikers
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(6)
43
hikers
11.9km
03:14
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
17
hikers
14.6km
04:10
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
16
hikers
16.3km
04:23
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around West Linton
Tips from the Community
West Linton is an attractive village with beautiful ancient buildings and a lovely selection of cafés and restaurants, including the Olde Toll Tea House and The Old Bakehouse Restaurant. Perhaps one of the most interesting things about West Linton is that it's one of the oldest market settlements in Scotland.
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Baddinsgill Reservoir is a charming little reservoir that rests peacefully in a picturesque valley along Thieves' Road, within the Pentland Hills. It's the perfect location to catch your breath and enjoy a picnic amongst some of Scotland's finest scenery.
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There are lots of fences, but still a nice little path through sheep pastures.
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Baddinsgill Reservoir opened in 1930. It's a good starting place for a loop of the hills above.
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East Cairn Hill at 561m is 1m lower than West Cairn Hill which is 1.5km away to the southwest. The views from the cairn are great, across the southern Pentland Hills and north to the Forth valley.
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The Mount at 538 m is the northern top of the slightly lower Grain Heads. Great views along the Pentland Hills and south.
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Mount Maw is a prominent summit with a trig point at 535 m. The southern aspect of the summit means you get amazing views south over the Southern Uplands and around the rest of the Pentland Hills.
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Mount Maw is a prominent summit with a trig point at 535 m. The southern aspect of the summit means you get amazing views south over the Southern Uplands and around the rest of the Pentland Hills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around West Linton?
Yes, there are over 25 marked hiking routes in the area. The trails range from easy strolls along the Lyne Water to challenging ascents in the nearby Pentland Hills, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails near West Linton?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the stunning views from the rolling hills, the peaceful paths around the reservoirs, and the mix of open countryside and sheltered woodland trails.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in the area?
The region offers several easier walks perfect for a family outing. These routes typically follow flatter terrain, such as paths along river valleys or around the local reservoirs, avoiding steep climbs while still providing beautiful scenery.
Can I bring my dog on hikes around West Linton?
Yes, dogs are welcome on most trails. However, the area includes farmland with livestock, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially during lambing season (spring). Woodland and reservoir paths are often great choices for a walk with your canine companion.
Are there any circular walks that include a pub stop?
For a rewarding hike with a stop for refreshments, consider the Catwalk Den Wood – The Gordon Arms Hotel loop from West Linton. This moderate trail takes you through scenic woodland and countryside before passing the hotel, which is a great spot for a break.
How can I access the Pentland Hills from West Linton?
West Linton serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the southern part of the Pentland Hills Regional Park. Several trails lead directly from the village or nearby car parks into the hills, offering more demanding routes with significant elevation gain and panoramic views.
What are the most scenic viewpoints on hikes near West Linton?
For expansive views, the summits in the Pentland Hills are unmatched. Peaks like Mount Maw offer panoramic vistas over the surrounding Borders landscape, the reservoirs, and towards Edinburgh on a clear day. The trails around the reservoirs also provide beautiful waterside scenery.
What is the terrain like on a typical hike in the Pentland Hills?
Hikes in the Pentlands generally involve well-defined but often steep and uneven paths. You can expect a mix of grassy slopes, rocky sections, and potentially boggy ground, especially after rain. Good hiking boots are essential for comfort and safety.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced walkers?
Yes, the area offers several challenging routes. For a strenuous outing, the Mendick Hill Summit loop from Dolphinton provides a good test of fitness with significant ascent and rewarding views from the top.
Can I get to the trailheads using public transport?
West Linton is served by bus routes connecting it to Edinburgh and other towns in the Scottish Borders. This makes it possible to start several hikes directly from the village without needing a car. Always check the latest bus timetables before you travel.
Where can I park to go hiking around West Linton?
There is on-street parking available within the village of West Linton, which is a convenient starting point for many local walks. For routes starting further into the Pentland Hills, there are designated car parks, such as the one near Baddinsgill Reservoir, but these can fill up quickly on weekends.
Are there any historical sites to see while hiking?
Yes, the landscape is rich with history. You can discover ancient drove roads, an old Roman road, and prehistoric burial mounds known as cairns. Near Westwater Reservoir, you can also find a mound where Bronze Age burial cists have been relocated.
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