The best walks and hikes around Queen'S Cross And Harlaw

There are over 40 hiking trails documented on komoot for the Queen's Cross and Harlaw areas. These range from urban strolls in Aberdeen to natural reservoir loops and hill climbs in the Pentland Hills.

Yes, both areas offer easy options. In Queen's Cross, Aberdeen, you can find urban walks like the Statue of Edward VII, Aberdeen – Aberdeen Street Art Murals loop, which is just over 2 km. Near Harlaw Reservoir, there are flat paths around the reservoir itself, perfect for a relaxed stroll.

The region offers a diverse range of landscapes. Around Queen's Cross in Aberdeen, you'll experience urban environments with Victorian architecture, city parks, and coastal paths leading to places like Footdee Beach. In contrast, the Harlaw area, within the Pentland Hills Regional Park, features open waters of reservoirs, mixed woodlands, and rolling hills with expansive views.

Yes, the Harlaw Reservoir area is particularly well-suited for families, offering easy, flat paths around the reservoir and through woodlands. The Harlaw Woodland Walk is an accessible option. In Aberdeen, shorter urban loops like the Marischal College – Union Terrace Gardens loop provide pleasant walks through city green spaces.

Many trails in both areas are dog-friendly. The natural paths around Harlaw Reservoir and within the Pentland Hills Regional Park are popular with dog walkers. When hiking in urban areas like Queen's Cross, dogs are generally welcome on leads. Always ensure your dog is under control and check for any specific local restrictions, especially around livestock in rural areas.

Yes, many routes are designed as circular walks. For example, in Aberdeen, the Mercat Cross Aberdeen – Footdee Beach loop offers a moderate circular path. Around Harlaw Reservoir, there are popular circular routes that take you around the reservoir itself and can be extended into the wider Pentland Hills.

In Aberdeen, you can explore historical sites like St Machar's Cathedral, the Bridge of Balgownie, and the charming fishing village of Footdee Beach. For natural viewpoints, consider routes that pass by Brimmond Hill Summit or Tyrebagger Hill Viewing Tower. Near Harlaw, the reservoirs themselves are a key feature, and you can extend walks to see places like Bavelaw Castle.

Yes, parking is generally available. For Harlaw Reservoir, there is a dedicated car park at the Harlaw House Visitor Centre. In Aberdeen, various city car parks serve the urban routes, though charges may apply.

Queen's Cross in Aberdeen is well-served by local bus routes within the city. For Harlaw Reservoir, public transport options are available from Edinburgh, typically involving a bus service to nearby Balerno, from where you can walk or connect to the reservoir area. It's advisable to check current bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

The trails in Queen's Cross and Harlaw are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the contrast between the historic urban charm and coastal walks of Aberdeen and the serene natural beauty of the Harlaw Reservoir and Pentland Hills. The variety of routes, from easy reservoir loops to more challenging hill climbs, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the Harlaw House Visitor Centre at Harlaw Reservoir provides amenities including public toilets. While there isn't a cafe directly at the reservoir, the nearby village of Balerno offers cafes and other facilities for refreshments before or after your hike.

While the guide primarily lists easy and moderate routes, the Harlaw area, being part of the Pentland Hills Regional Park, offers opportunities for more challenging hikes. You can extend your walks from Harlaw into the hills, with routes ascending to peaks like Scald Law, which involve significant elevation gain and longer distances, providing a more strenuous experience.