4.6
(2306)
32,377
hikers
16
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Silverknowes offer access to Edinburgh's coastal zone, characterized by its extensive promenade, sandy beaches, and views across the Firth of Forth. The area features low grassy dunes and the unique tidal causeway to Cramond Island, providing diverse landscapes for exploration. Trails often combine coastal walking with historical sites, such as the remains of a Roman Fort. This blend of urban accessibility and natural features makes Silverknowes a practical starting point for car-free outdoor activities.
Last updated: August 16, 2026
4.3
(3)
31
hikers
11.1km
02:56
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
hikers
3.55km
00:56
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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16
hikers
8.97km
02:22
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
hikers
4.81km
01:17
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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At low tide, you can walk over to the island. Relaxing short hike along the sea wall.
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Tours are by appointment only. The grounds are nice to walk around and there is some parking available and a cafe.
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A beautiful garden to wonder through. Nice calm atmosphere and just a short walk from the Castle.
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It is worth walking over to the island. Just be aware of the tides
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Excellent spot for weekly 5k park run with brilliant scenic views! This takes place every Saturday at 09.30am with around 400-500 in attendance and a great full lap of the promenade covered.
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Silverknowes Esplanade is a 5km promenade which stretches from Granton to Cramond village. The views across to Fife and towards the Forth Bridges are fantastic and well worth the effort.
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Cramond Island is a deserted island with a few ruins and bunkers from the Second World War. At low tide, the island can be reached over a narrow and low concrete causeway in a four-hour window, two hours before and two hours after low tide. The path is about 1.6 kilometres (one mile) long and passes concrete piers dating from the Second World War, built to protect against torpedoes and ships. The times when the path to the island is open are posted at the start of the path and are also published on the internet: https://queensferrylifeboat.co.uk/cramond-tides At high tide, the water rises so high that you can only leave the island by swimming or waiting up to eight hours for the causeway to be open again. If you do decide to swim, be aware of the current, the low water temperature and the relatively long distance.
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There are over a dozen hiking trails around Silverknowes that are easily accessible by bus. These routes offer a convenient way to explore the coastal beauty and natural features of the area without needing a car.
Hikes from bus stations in Silverknowes primarily feature coastal promenades, sandy beaches along the Firth of Forth, and low grassy dunes. You'll enjoy panoramic views across the Firth of Forth, often extending to Fife on clear days. Some routes also incorporate unique tidal access to Cramond Island.
Yes, Silverknowes offers several easy, family-friendly routes. For example, the Silverknowes Beach – Drum Sands loop from Cramond is an easy 3.5 km walk perfect for a leisurely outing. Another option is the Drum Sands – Silverknowes Beach loop from Cramond, which is 4.7 km and also rated easy.
Absolutely. Many of the bus-accessible routes in Silverknowes are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point easily. For instance, the Silverknowes Beach – Cramond Island Causeway loop from Muirhouse is a moderate 10.4 km circular hike that offers unique tidal exploration.
Yes, the coastal promenade, beaches, and many of the trails around Silverknowes are popular with dog walkers. The low grassy dunes and open spaces provide a great environment for dogs to enjoy. Always remember to keep dogs under control and clean up after them, especially in nature areas.
Along these routes, you can explore the unique tidal causeway to Cramond Island, offering distinctive coastal exploration at low tide. You might also pass by the remains of a Roman Fort, as seen on the Silverknowes Beach – Roman Fort Remains loop from Muirhouse. For broader views, nearby highlights include Corstorphine Hill Tower and View of Edinburgh from Blackford Hill.
While Silverknowes is primarily known for its coastal features, you can find interesting water features nearby. The River Almond Weir is a notable man-made feature, and the Dean Village Waterfall is also within reach, offering a different natural attraction.
The bus-accessible trails in Silverknowes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning Firth of Forth views, the well-maintained coastal paths, and the unique experience of walking to Cramond Island.
The coastal trails in Silverknowes are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for beach walks and longer explorations. Autumn provides beautiful light and fewer crowds, while winter walks can be invigorating, especially on clear, crisp days. Always check tidal times if planning to visit Cramond Island.
Yes, for those seeking a moderate challenge, routes like the Silverknowes Beach – Cramond Island Causeway loop from Silverknowes offer a good workout. This 8.5 km route includes varied terrain and the unique tidal crossing to Cramond Island, providing a rewarding experience.
The Silverknowes Esplanade and nearby Cramond village offer cafes and amenities where you can refresh yourself before, during, or after your hike. These spots are conveniently located along or near many of the bus-accessible coastal routes.


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