4.6
(2725)
35,635
hikers
19
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Marchmont And Sciennes are characterized by their blend of urban green spaces and proximity to more rugged natural features. The area offers accessible parkland, notably The Meadows, which provides gentle paths suitable for all fitness levels. While Marchmont itself is situated on drumlin ridges, the wider region includes the remnants of an extinct volcano at Arthur's Seat and the expansive Pentland Hills, offering diverse landscapes for exploration. This combination provides a range of options from…
Last updated: May 26, 2026
4.0
(1)
72
hikers
3.99km
01:02
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(8)
24
hikers
10.6km
03:04
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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33
hikers
4.76km
01:16
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
19
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
hikers
4.99km
01:20
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Marchmont And Sciennes
Recommendation
1
1
Part of the axis from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. It's worth walking the entire route.
2
0
just a quiet place, memory off Susannah Alice Stephen
1
1
I recommend an early morning run before the city has started its daily activities.
0
0
When you are in Edinburgh, you automatically come to the High Street. :)
2
1
A comprehensive bike shop, that's remains independently owned. Has a great workshop service and is a Brompton service centre.
1
0
There are over 20 family-friendly hiking trails around Marchmont And Sciennes, with 17 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children. These routes offer manageable distances and gentle paths for everyone to enjoy.
Marchmont And Sciennes is accessible year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the parks and green spaces like The Meadows. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter walks can be charming, especially on the more urban-accessible routes, though some higher ground trails might require more preparation.
Yes, many routes are designed for beginners and families. For a gentle introduction, consider "The Meadows – Meadow Walk, The Meadows loop from Edinburgh", which is an easy 4 km stroll through a popular public park. Another great option is the "Edinburgh Bicycle Cooperative – Bruntsfield Links loop from Edinburgh", a shorter 2.8 km route perfect for a quick family outing.
Many family-friendly routes offer views of Edinburgh's iconic landmarks and natural features. You might spot the historic St Giles' Cathedral or the impressive Scott Monument on some city-adjacent walks. For natural beauty, routes often pass through or near The Meadows and Bruntsfield Links, offering open green spaces. While not directly on these family routes, the area is close to the dramatic Arthur's Seat and the Pentland Hills, which provide more challenging hikes with panoramic views.
Generally, dogs are welcome on most public paths and parks in Marchmont And Sciennes, including The Meadows and Bruntsfield Links. However, it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or near playgrounds, and to clean up after them. Specific rules might apply in certain nature reserves or enclosed areas, so look out for local signage.
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes in this guide are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. For example, the "Greyfriars Bobby Statue – Meadow Walk, The Meadows loop from Southside" is a pleasant circular walk that takes you through The Meadows and past a famous Edinburgh landmark.
Parking in Marchmont And Sciennes can be limited, as it's a residential area close to the city center. On-street parking is often metered or permit-restricted. For routes starting in The Meadows or Bruntsfield Links, it's often easier to find parking slightly further out or use public transport. Consider checking local parking apps for available spaces and restrictions.
Marchmont And Sciennes is well-served by Edinburgh's public transport network. Numerous bus routes connect the area to the city center and surrounding districts, making it easy to reach the starting points of many trails, especially those in The Meadows and Bruntsfield Links. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient options to your chosen trailhead.
Yes, Marchmont And Sciennes is known for its vibrant local amenities. You'll find a variety of cafes, bakeries, and eateries in the Marchmont and Bruntsfield areas, many of which are just a short walk from The Meadows and Bruntsfield Links. These are perfect for a post-hike treat or a quick snack.
The Meadows, a large public park easily accessible from Marchmont, features several playgrounds that are popular with families. Many of the easy walks in this guide, such as "The Meadows – Meadow Walk, The Meadows loop from Edinburgh", pass directly through or very close to these play areas, offering a great incentive for younger hikers.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2600 ratings. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of green spaces like The Meadows and Bruntsfield Links, the well-maintained paths, and the convenience of having urban amenities close by, making it ideal for family outings.
For families looking for a slightly longer route with more elevation, the "Buckstone Snab Summit – Royal Observatory, Edinburgh loop from Southside" is a moderate 10.6 km hike with over 260 meters of ascent. This route offers a good workout and rewarding views, suitable for families with older children or those seeking a bit more adventure.


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