The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Wester Hailes

There are 7 family-friendly hiking trails around Wester Hailes featured in this guide. These routes are designed to be enjoyable for all ages, offering manageable distances and gentle paths.

Yes, several routes are ideal for younger children and toddlers. The area offers paths along the historic Union Canal, which are generally flat and easy to navigate. For a specific easy option, consider the Path Along the Union Canal – Slateford Aqueduct loop from Kingsknowe, which is just over 5 km and features minimal elevation gain.

Wester Hailes is bordered by the historic Union Canal, offering peaceful waterside paths. You can also explore Hailes Quarry Park with its nature trails and wetland habitats, perfect for spotting local wildlife. The proximity to the Pentland Hills Regional Park also means some routes offer glimpses of more elevated, scenic views.

Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. A great example is the Colinton Tunnel Mural – Colinton Tunnel Murals loop from Wester Hailes, which is a moderate 11.8 km loop offering interesting sights along the way.

The trails around Wester Hailes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.66 out of 5 stars from over 2,800 ratings. Hikers often praise the accessibility of nature, the well-maintained paths, and the variety of scenery, from canal-side strolls to more expansive views.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most public footpaths and trails around Wester Hailes. However, it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially near livestock, wildlife habitats like Hailes Quarry Park, or in busier areas along the Union Canal. Please remember to clean up after your dog to keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

Yes, the area offers several points of interest. You can explore the artistic Colinton Tunnel Murals on a dedicated loop. Further afield, you might catch views of significant natural monuments like Arthur's Seat or the serene waters of Glencorse Reservoir and Torduff Reservoir, which are part of the wider landscape.

Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for family hikes, with blooming flora and longer daylight hours. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, clear days, though some paths might be muddy or icy. Always check the weather forecast before heading out, regardless of the season.

Wester Hailes is well-served by local bus routes, making many trailheads accessible via public transport from central Edinburgh and surrounding areas. The Union Canal towpath and sections of the Water of Leith Walkway are particularly easy to reach by bus, allowing for convenient access without a car.

For family hikes in Wester Hailes, it's advisable to pack layers of clothing suitable for varying weather, comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, and a small first-aid kit. Depending on the route, a map or a fully charged phone with a navigation app like komoot can also be very helpful. Don't forget sun protection and insect repellent during warmer months.

While this guide focuses on family-friendly options, the proximity to the Pentland Hills Regional Park means there are more challenging routes nearby. For families seeking a longer adventure with significant elevation, the Loganlea Reservoir – Turnhouse Hill loop from Wester Hailes offers a demanding 28 km hike with substantial climbs, providing a greater challenge and expansive views.