The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Merchiston

Merchiston offers a fantastic selection of family-friendly hikes, with nearly 50 routes to choose from. Most of these, around 36, are classified as easy, making them perfect for families with children.

Yes, many of the family-friendly trails around Merchiston are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. A great option is the Leamington Lift Bridge – Lochrin Basin loop from Murrayfield Stadium, which follows the scenic Union Canal.

Hiking around Merchiston offers a mix of urban green spaces and elevated viewpoints. You can enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh's historic skyline and iconic landmarks from places like Corstorphine Hill Tower. Other routes provide charming canal-side scenery or glimpses of the city's architecture, such as the View of Edinburgh Old Town – Scott Monument loop from Southside.

Many of the paths, especially those along the Union Canal and within parks like Harrison Park, are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for strollers. Routes like the Slateford Aqueduct – Slateford Aqueduct loop from University of Edinburgh offer smooth surfaces ideal for families with young children in prams.

Yes, most of the outdoor spaces and trails around Merchiston, including the Union Canal paths and Harrison Park, are dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept under control, especially around other families and wildlife, and always clean up after your pet.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover historical and scenic points of interest. The Union Canal itself is a historic waterway, and you might pass by the 15th-century Merchiston Tower. For stunning city views, consider routes that lead to Corstorphine Hill Tower or offer vistas of Arthur's Seat.

Merchiston is well-served by Edinburgh's public transport network. Many trailheads, particularly those along the Union Canal or near major parks like Harrison Park, are easily accessible by local buses. For example, routes starting near the University of Edinburgh or Murrayfield Stadium are typically well-connected.

Yes, being close to Edinburgh city centre, there are numerous cafes, pubs, and eateries conveniently located near many of the family-friendly trails. The Union Canal paths, in particular, often have establishments nearby where you can grab a snack or a meal.

Merchiston's trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather and lush greenery, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the paths along the Union Canal and in parks are generally accessible, providing a refreshing outdoor experience.

The family-friendly trails around Merchiston are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the easy accessibility, the variety of scenery from canal paths to city views, and the well-maintained routes perfect for all ages.

While most routes are easy, there are some slightly more challenging options for families looking for a bit more adventure. The Hermitage of Braid House loop from University of Edinburgh is classified as moderate, offering a longer distance and more elevation gain while still being suitable for active families.