The best walks and hikes around Old Town
4.6
(826)
12,037
hikers
107
hikes
Hiking around Old Town offers a unique mix of urban exploration and prominent natural landscapes. The area is defined by its proximity to Holyrood Park, which contains the extinct volcano Arthur's Seat and the Salisbury Crags. These urban hiking routes provide access to green spaces and elevated viewpoints directly from the city center.
Best hiking trails around Old Town
- The most popular hiking route is Arthur's Seat & Salisbury Crags loop from Holyrood, a 2.4 mile (3.8 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to complete. This route involves an ascent to the summit of Arthur's Seat and follows the ridge of the Salisbury Crags.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Holyrood Park loop via Queen's Drive — Edinburgh, a moderate 5.1 mile (8.3 km) path. This longer route circles the park, offering varied perspectives of its hills and lochs.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Edinburgh Old Town tour, a 2.1 mile (3.3 km) trail leading through historic streets, often completed in about 55 minutes.
- Hiking around Old Town is defined by ascents to volcanic peaks, paths along rocky crags, and historic urban walking routes. The network of trails provides options for both short, easy walks and more challenging hill climbs.
- The routes in Old Town are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 650 reviews. More than 9,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Old Town's varied terrain.
Last updated: November 7, 2026
4.7
(51)
222
hikers
3.80km
01:30
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(37)
397
hikers
8.29km
02:18
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.5
(18)
114
hikers
3.31km
00:53
40m
40m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.6
(158)
3,086
hikers
4.28km
01:26
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.4
(12)
47
hikers
4.44km
01:11
50m
50m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
Especially in autumn with the colorful leaves, it is a feast for the eyes.
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Here the view opens up to the Firth of Forth.
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Wide path up to the high plateau. Sturdy footwear recommended.
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Gentle grassy hills in the south.
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Once a marshy path, now a lovely pond. Home to countless swans and ducks, overlooking the ruins of St. Antonius Chapel. Together with Dunsapie Loch, this is an artificial lake, created at the request of Prince Albert in 1856, as part of his project to embellish the royal estate. (The Scottish Pearl)
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Nice view of the city and the Firth of Forth when the weather is clear.
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The Salisbury Crags offer a beautiful view of Edinburgh and the surrounding area, as well as the Firth of Forth.
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This castle stands on one of the oldest inhabited sites in Edinburgh – archaeologists have determined that people inhabited this area as early as the 2nd century AD. However, the castle you see here was only built a millennium later. It began in 1124 as the royal residence of David I, King of Scotland. It fulfilled that role until 1633, when it was converted into a military barracks, where soldiers slept in the place where the royal family used to live. Edinburgh Castle was involved in various conflicts, including the Scottish Wars of Independence. In total, the castle has undergone 26 sieges, making it the most besieged location in Scotland and one of the most attacked locations in the world. (Free Tours by Foot)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in Old Town?
Yes, there are many options suitable for families and beginners. For a gentle walk focused on history rather than hills, the Edinburgh Old Town tour is an excellent choice. It's a relatively flat 2.1-mile (3.3 km) route that explores the historic streets and closes of the city itself.
What are the best viewpoints for seeing the city?
For panoramic views of the city, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding landscape, the summit of Arthur's Seat is unbeatable. The trails along the Salisbury Crags also offer a fantastic perspective looking back over the Old Town. Both are accessible within Holyrood Park.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails in and around Old Town, including in Holyrood Park. However, you should keep them under control, especially near steep drops on the Salisbury Crags and on the summit of Arthur's Seat. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet.
How do I get to the trailheads using public transport?
The main trailheads for Holyrood Park are easily accessible from the city center. Edinburgh Waverley train station is a short walk away. Numerous Lothian Buses routes also stop along the Royal Mile and near the Palace of Holyroodhouse, putting you right at the edge of the park.
Is there parking available near the main hiking areas?
Parking is limited and can be challenging in the city center. There is a pay-and-display car park at Holyrood Park, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. It is often easier to use public transport or walk from your accommodation in the city.
What kind of historical landmarks can I see on a hike?
The area is rich in history. A great route for this is the Holyrood Palace – St. Anthony's Chapel Ruins loop from Edinburgh Waverley. This trail takes you past the dramatic, medieval ruins of St. Anthony's Chapel, which overlooks St Margaret's Loch, offering both historical interest and scenic views.
What should I wear for a hike up Arthur's Seat?
Even though it's in the city, Arthur's Seat is an exposed hill with uneven, rocky paths. Sturdy footwear with good grip, like hiking shoes or boots, is essential. The weather can change quickly, so it's wise to bring waterproof and windproof layers, even on a clear day.
How many hiking trails are there around Old Town?
There are over 90 designated hiking routes to explore in the area. These range from easy urban walks through historic streets to challenging ascents up the volcanic hills of Holyrood Park, offering something for every fitness level.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the area?
The komoot community rates the hikes around Old Town very highly. Reviewers frequently praise the unique experience of having such a wild, rugged landscape like Arthur's Seat accessible directly from the city center. The stunning panoramic views from the summits are a consistent highlight.
Are there any circular walks that start and end in the city?
Yes, most of the popular routes are circular. A great moderate option is the Holyrood Palace – Arthur's Seat loop from Holyrood. This trail provides a complete hillwalking experience, taking you to the summit and back down, starting and finishing conveniently near the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
What are the trail conditions like?
Trail conditions vary significantly. Routes in the Old Town itself are paved, but paths in Holyrood Park can be rocky, uneven, and steep in sections. After rain, the grassy slopes and stone steps can become slippery and muddy. It's best to assume you'll be walking on natural, rugged terrain.
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