The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Penicuik And District

Penicuik and District offers a great selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 20 easy routes specifically designed for families, with many more moderate options that can also be suitable depending on your family's experience.

The area boasts diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Pentland Hills Regional Park to the ancient woodlands of Roslin Glen Country Park. Many trails follow the scenic River North Esk and pass by historical sites, offering varied scenery and points of interest to keep everyone engaged. The routes are generally well-maintained and offer manageable distances for all ages.

The komoot community highly rates the trails in Penicuik and District, with an average score of 4.66 stars. Reviewers often praise the beautiful natural scenery, the variety of paths suitable for different ages, and the opportunities to explore both natural beauty and historical landmarks.

Absolutely! Many trails incorporate historical elements. For instance, walks in Roslin Glen can lead you past the ruins of Rosslyn Castle and the famous Rosslyn Chapel. The Allermuir, Castlelaw and Capelaw Hill Loop in the Pentlands passes by Castlelaw Hill Fort, an Iron Age fort. You can also explore the grounds of the historic Penicuik House Estate, which features the ruined shell of Old Penicuik House.

Yes, water features are a highlight of the region. The Turnhouse Hill & Glencorse Reservoir loop from Flotterstone offers lovely views of Glencorse Reservoir. The River North Esk flows through much of the area, providing a scenic companion for many walks, including parts of the Penicuik Paper Trail and the Penicuik to Eskbank Railway Walk. You can also find Threipmuir Reservoir on some routes.

Roslin Glen Country Park is particularly known for its biodiversity. As a Site of Special Scientific Interest, its ancient woodlands and riverbanks are home to otters, kingfishers, buzzards, woodpeckers, and badgers. The varied habitats of the Pentland Hills also support a rich diversity of wildlife, making many trails excellent for nature observation.

Many of the family-friendly trails in Penicuik and District are circular, making them convenient for day trips. For example, the Penicuik House Estate offers easygoing circular walks. In the Pentland Hills, you can find loops like the Carnethy Hill & Scald Law loop from Flotterstone, though some of these can be more challenging.

While some trails may be too rugged for pushchairs, many paths, especially those along the River North Esk or within country parks like Roslin Glen, offer gentler, wider surfaces suitable for younger children and sturdy pushchairs. Always check individual route descriptions for specific accessibility details.

Most trails in Penicuik and District are dog-friendly, especially within the Pentland Hills Regional Park and Roslin Glen Country Park. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, particularly around livestock, wildlife, and other visitors. Some areas might have specific restrictions, so look out for local signage.

Spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for family hikes, with wildflowers blooming and longer daylight hours. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, especially in the woodlands of Roslin Glen. Winter can be magical, but trails may be muddy or icy, requiring appropriate footwear and caution. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, Penicuik and District is accessible by public transport. Local bus services connect Penicuik with Edinburgh and other nearby towns, with stops often close to popular trailheads, particularly those leading into the Pentland Hills or Roslin Glen. Planning your route in advance will help identify the most convenient bus stops.

Many family-friendly trails offer scenic spots perfect for a picnic, especially along riverbanks or with views of the hills. Additionally, Penicuik and nearby villages have cafes and pubs where you can grab refreshments before or after your hike. Flotterstone, a popular starting point for Pentland Hills walks, also has facilities.

For families with older children looking for a more challenging adventure, the Carnethy Hill, Threipmuir Reservoir & Glencorse Reservoir loop from Flotterstone offers a substantial hike with significant elevation gain and rewarding views across the Pentland Hills.