Flotterstone Visitor Centre & Café
Flotterstone Visitor Centre & Café
Highlight • Rest Area
Flotterstone Visitor Centre & Café
Hiking
4.7
(87)
Running
5.0
(1)
Mountain biking
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
April 11, 2023
Hiking
Cafe open 10:00 - 16:00 (10:00 - 17:00 at weekends) but closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
January 13, 2022
Hiking
January 24, 2022
Hiking
Opening Hours
Monday 10am–4pm
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 10am–4pm
Friday 10am–4pm
Saturday 10am–4pm
Sunday 10am–4pm
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Flotterstone Visitor Centre & Café
4.8
(130)
1,028
hikers
13.0km
04:43
500m
500m
Embark on a moderate 8.1-mile (13.0 km) hike through the Pentland Hills, conquering Carnethy Hill and Scald Law. This loop from Flotterstone features varied terrain, including clear hill paths and rough sections, with steep ascents and descents creating a 'rollercoaster walk' feel. You'll gain 1649 feet (503 metres) in elevation over approximately 4 hours and 42 minutes, enjoying expansive views over Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and surrounding hills from the summits. The top of Carnethy Hill is covered by small boulders, while Scald Law offers a spacious, boulder-strewn summit. You will also pass by picturesque Glencorse and Loganlea Reservoirs.
Starting at the Flotterstone Visitor Centre, you'll find convenient amenities including parking and toilets. This popular route requires good fitness and sure-footedness, especially on rough and potentially boggy sections after rain. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and strong winds on the summits; appropriate layers and sturdy footwear are essential. The Flotterstone Inn nearby provides a place for refreshments after your hike.
This trail offers a significant sense of accomplishment as you reach Scald Law, the highest point in the Pentland Hills. Located less than 30 minutes from Edinburgh, the Pentland Hills are often called the city's 'beauty spot,' making this loop easily accessible for a substantial outdoor adventure. The route also intersects with historical paths like the Kirk Road, once used by worshippers. This diverse landscape of rolling hills, moors, and reservoirs provides a constantly changing and engaging environment.
4.8
(82)
475
hikers
8.24km
02:52
290m
290m
Embark on a moderate hike around Turnhouse Hill and Glencorse Reservoir, a 5.1-mile (8.2 km) loop that offers diverse scenery. You will gain 964 feet (294 metres) in elevation, typically taking about 2 hours and 51 minutes to complete. The initial climb up Turnhouse Hill rewards you with wide-ranging views stretching towards Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. After reaching the summit, the trail eases into a pleasant walk alongside the tranquil Glencorse Reservoir. Expect to traverse varied terrain, including open pasture, sections of woodland, and farmland paths.
The route conveniently begins from Flotterstone, where you will find a visitor center and ample parking, ensuring easy access. While the trail is generally accessible, be prepared for some sections that might demand sure-footedness. Conditions can become slippery, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is advisable. Always check local weather and trail conditions before you set out, particularly if you plan to hike during the colder winter months.
This trail is a highlight within Pentland Hills Regional Park, known for its blend of hill climbing and serene waterside walking. The contrast between the expansive views from Turnhouse Hill and the peaceful shores of Glencorse Reservoir makes it a popular choice. You will experience a mix of natural environments, from open hillsides to sheltered woodland, providing a refreshing outdoor experience close to the city.
4.7
(41)
183
hikers
11.0km
03:19
360m
360m
Embark on the Allermuir, Castlelaw and Capelaw Hill Loop, a moderate hiking route that guides you through the scenic Pentland Hills. You will cover 6.8 miles (11.0 km) and ascend 1168 feet (356 metres) over approximately 3 hours and 18 minutes, offering a rewarding challenge. From the summits, you can enjoy expansive views across the Pentland Hills, the Firth of Forth, and the city of Edinburgh, with the picturesque Glencorse Reservoir visible below. The trail features a mix of gentle grassy slopes and more rugged, rocky sections, especially as you climb the hills.
Before you head out, be ready for varied trail conditions, which might include muddy and wet patches, along with loose rock, particularly on Castlelaw Hill. A section of Castlelaw Hill is part of a military firing range, so always look for red flags indicating active training before proceeding. For your convenience, the Flotterstone Visitor Centre & Café is nearby, providing facilities and a place to stop before or after your hike.
This route stands out for its impressive panoramic vistas, allowing you to see Edinburgh's iconic landmarks from a unique perspective on Allermuir Hill. The journey through the Pentland Hills offers a chance to experience diverse landscapes and significant elevation changes within a relatively short distance. It is a popular choice for hikers seeking both a good workout and memorable views of the region's natural beauty and urban sprawl.
Details
Informations
Elevation 190 m
Weather
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Tuesday 18 August
17°C
11°C
89 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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