Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Lakes
United Kingdom
Scotland
Lothian
Edinburgh

Drylaw/Telford

Top 10 Lakes around Drylaw/Telford

Best lakes around Drylaw/Telford, a residential area in Edinburgh, are primarily accessible bodies of water within the wider city. While the immediate Drylaw/Telford area does not feature large natural lakes, it provides convenient access to several significant lochs and water features in Edinburgh. These natural features offer opportunities for walking routes and enjoying the local landscape. The area's proximity to these sites makes it a starting point for exploring Edinburgh's diverse aquatic environments.

Best lakes around Drylaw/Telford

  • The most popular lakes is View of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth, a viewpoint that offers incredible views over Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. This spot provides a panoramic perspective of the city and its surrounding waters.
  • Another must-see spot is Torduff Reservoir, a man-made lake. This relatively small reservoir is located southwest of Bonaly, offering beautiful views of the Pentland Hills and a sense of natural seclusion.
  • Visitors also love Granton Harbour and Wardie Bay, a viewpoint with views over the Forth. This location is known for its scenic outlooks and the chance to observe seals.
  • Drylaw/Telford is known for artificial lochs, reservoirs, and coastal viewpoints. These features offer a variety of water-based experiences, from tranquil walks to expansive city views.
  • The lakes around Drylaw/Telford are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 800 upvotes and 90 photos shared by users.

Last updated: June 29, 2026

View of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth

Highlight • Viewpoint

Incredibly great views over Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Granton Harbour and Wardie Bay

Highlight • Viewpoint

Great views over the Forth, a nice place to stop for a rest or a picnic. There is a chance of seeing seals.

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Dunsapie Loch

Highlight • Natural

The Dunsapie Loch invites you to linger.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Torduff Reservoir

Highlight • Lake

Torduff Reservoir is a relatively small reservoir at 23 acres (9.4 hectares) just southwest of Bonaly. It sits neatly below the western flank of Torduff Hill. Nearby to the southwest is also Clubbiedean Reservoir. There is a good series of bike routes in this area that can take in both Torduff and Clubbiedean Reservoir to make use of the beautiful views of the surrounding Pentland Hills.

Tip by

Save

An artificial loch.
The ruined St Anthony's Chapel stands above St Margaret's Loch. Saint Margaret of Scotland (c. 1045-1093), also known as Margaret of Wessex, was an English princess and a Scottish queen.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Drylaw/Telford.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Drylaw/Telford

Cycling around Drylaw/Telford

MTB Trails around Drylaw/Telford

Gravel biking around Drylaw/Telford

Road Cycling Routes around Drylaw/Telford

Hiking around Drylaw/Telford

Running Trails around Drylaw/Telford

Tips from the Community

Jamie
August 30, 2025, Torduff Reservoir

Pretty way in or out of balermo

0

0

Matt Charnley
November 6, 2024, Dunsapie Loch

A little gem within Holyrood Park that’s perfect for a quick, scenic escape - often full with swans, geese and ducks

0

0

Torduff Reservoir is a relatively small reservoir at 23 acres (9.4 hectares) just southwest of Bonaly. It sits neatly below the western flank of Torduff Hill. Nearby to the southwest is also Clubbiedean Reservoir. There is a good series of bike routes in this area that can take in both Torduff and Clubbiedean Reservoir to make use of the beautiful views of the surrounding Pentland Hills.

1

0

Simply beautiful nature

Translated by Google

1

1

Great lake with reflection of the hill and the trees. Super nice for a break.

Translated by Google

1

0

Beautiful view of the surroundings

Translated by Google

0

0

Free and easy to any fitness level

0

0

Lovely swans and a picturesque view of Arthur's Seat - worth the walk even if you don't hike the hill.

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of water bodies can I explore near Drylaw/Telford?

While the immediate Drylaw/Telford area doesn't have large natural lakes, you can easily access a variety of significant water features within Edinburgh. These include artificial lochs, reservoirs, and coastal viewpoints like Granton Harbour and Wardie Bay, as well as the scenic Water of Leith river.

Where can I find scenic views of Edinburgh and its surrounding waters?

For breathtaking panoramic views, visit View of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. This viewpoint offers incredible vistas over the city and the estuary. Another great spot is Granton Harbour and Wardie Bay, which provides lovely views over the Forth and a chance to spot seals.

Are there any tranquil, secluded lakes nearby?

Yes, Torduff Reservoir offers a sense of natural seclusion. This man-made lake is nestled southwest of Bonaly, providing beautiful views of the Pentland Hills and a peaceful escape.

What natural features and wildlife can I expect to see?

You can encounter diverse wildlife, especially birdlife, at locations like Duddingston Loch, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest within Holyrood Park. Dunsapie Loch is also known for its wildlife, including the annual toad migration. Along the Water of Leith, you'll find a rich ecosystem.

Are there family-friendly walking options around the lakes?

Absolutely. Many areas are suitable for families. Dunsapie Loch and Granton Harbour and Wardie Bay are both marked as family-friendly. The Water of Leith Walkway also offers accessible paths for a pleasant family stroll.

What are the best places for an easy walk near Drylaw/Telford?

For easy walks, consider the paths around Dunsapie Loch and St. Margaret's Loch within Holyrood Park. The Water of Leith Walkway is also a popular choice, offering a relatively flat and scenic route through the city.

Can I find historical sites near these water bodies?

Yes, Holyrood Park, home to Duddingston Loch and St. Margaret's Loch, features the historic St. Anthony's Chapel ruins. The Water of Leith Walkway also passes by various historical sites as it winds through Edinburgh.

What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Drylaw/Telford?

Beyond walking, the area offers opportunities for cycling and mountain biking. You can find various routes, such as the 'Five Ways Junction – Portobello Promenade and Beach loop' for cycling, or explore mountain biking trails like 'Forth Bridge – Dalmeny Shoreline Singletrack loop'. For more details, check out the Cycling around Drylaw/Telford guide and the MTB Trails around Drylaw/Telford guide.

Are there hiking trails available near these lakes?

Yes, there are several hiking trails, particularly around Holyrood Park and the Pentland Hills. For instance, you can find moderate mountain hikes like the 'Haggis Knowe – Arthur's Seat loop' or the 'Salisbury Crags – Arthur's Seat loop'. Discover more options in the Mountain Hikes around Drylaw/Telford guide.

What do visitors enjoy most about the water features near Drylaw/Telford?

Visitors particularly enjoy the incredible views, such as those from View of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. The tranquility and natural beauty of spots like Torduff Reservoir, and the chance to observe wildlife, especially seals at Granton Harbour and Wardie Bay, are also highly appreciated.

Is public transport available to reach these lakes?

Many of Edinburgh's significant water bodies, including those in Holyrood Park (Duddingston Loch, St. Margaret's Loch, Dunsapie Loch) and the Water of Leith, are well-served by Edinburgh's public transport network, making them easily accessible from Drylaw/Telford.

Can I visit these lakes during winter?

Yes, these locations are generally accessible year-round. Winter walks can offer a different, often serene, perspective of the landscapes, especially around Holyrood Park or along the Water of Leith. Always check local conditions for safety during colder months.

Most popular routes around Drylaw/Telford

Cycling around Drylaw/Telford

Most popular attractions around Drylaw/Telford

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found your perfect lake around Drylaw/Telford? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

FairmileheadFirrhillJuniper GreenStenhouse, Saughton Mains And WhitsonGilmerton/InchCorstorphineHutchison/ChesserCraiglockhartGorgie/DalryColintonLiberton And DistrictLongstoneWester HailesSighthill, Broomhouse And ParkheadMorningsideCurrieMerchistonCraigleith/BlackhallDrum BraeMurrayfieldRatho And DistrictWest EndGrange/PrestonfieldTollcrossMuirhouse/SalvesenCraigmillarNorthfield/WillowbraeWest Pilton/West GrantonMarchmont And SciennesSilverknowesOld TownSouthsideNew Town/BroughtonGranton And DistrictStockbridge/InverleithCramond And BarntonLeith CentralCraigentinny/MeadowbankLeith Harbour & NewhavenPortobelloTrinityQueensferry And DistrictBalernoLeith LinksKirklistonPentland HillsPentland Hills Regional Park

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Craigleith/Blackhall

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy