Attractions and Places To See around Heriot - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Heriot offer a diverse range of outdoor experiences. This region, situated near the Moorfoot Hills and the Lammermuir Edge, features historical sites and natural landscapes. Visitors can explore ancient forts, medieval ruins, and scenic routes. Heriot provides opportunities for various outdoor activities, including cycling and exploring hidden gems.
Best attractions and places to see around Heriot
- The most popular attractions is Glentress Mountain Bike Centre, an mtb park that offers extensive facilitiesโฆ
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Glentress Mountain Bike Centre
Highlight โข MTB Park
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Soutra Aisle and Medieval Hospital Site
Highlight (Segment) โข Viewpoint
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Hirendean Castle Ruins
Highlight โข Viewpoint
Situated on the flattened top of a raised mound beside the Hirenden Burn, it is โฆ
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The Meldons Road
Highlight (Segment) โข Trail
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Gladhouse Reservoir Scenic Road Section
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Tips from the Community
Absolutely gorgeous reservoir, great to cycle by, or to stop and enjoy your ride-food while looking at the water.
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Gladhouse Reservoir is just a short drive from Edinburgh and just to the west of the Moorfoot Hills. This peaceful wildlife haven offers visitors great hiking and cycling opportunities. This back-lane road section is no exception. This is a good connecting section between the Gladhouse Plantation on the west side of the reservoir and Rosebery Reservoir a few miles to the north. The road goes past the northern wooded shores of Gladhouse Reservoir, around the bottom of the dam, where just after you turn left or north for Rosebery Reservoir. It is a scenic, tranquil section that is a delight for the eyes and soul.
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A Leisurely walk close to Edinburgh with excellent views on a clear day.
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a well know myb centre kitted out with bike washers, shop and cafe.
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Builders are in making big changes now October 23
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I tend to ride this the other way, ending in Eddleston, because I for me the Black and White Meldons reveal themselves so much more dramatically. The valley is soaked in pre-history - there are ancient forts on both Melvins, and below them there are burial cairns dotted along the valley. Iโve often wondered whether a certain arrangement of stones right by the roadside is, in fact, a Neolithic โcausewayโ monument - though itโs not on any list as far as I know. The sum effect, especially if you ride at times when there are relatively few people around (early morning, late afternoon, out of season), is incredibly atmospheric.
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A ruined 16th century Peel Tower south of Gladhouse Reservoir. The castle was in a strong positioned commanding the valley and protected by the burn. You see it from the trail as you run up the valley but to reach the walls you need to cross a couple of fields.
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Hirendean Castle is a ruined 16th century peel tower.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular attractions to visit around Heriot?
Visitors frequently enjoy the Glentress Mountain Bike Centre, known for its extensive facilities and graded MTB routes. Other popular spots include the tranquil Gladhouse Reservoir Scenic Road Section, ideal for hiking and cycling, and The Meldons Road, offering dramatic views and historical significance with ancient forts and burial cairns.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Heriot area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Glentress Mountain Bike Centre offers routes for all abilities, bike hire, and a cafe. The Gladhouse Reservoir Scenic Road Section is also a peaceful wildlife haven perfect for family walks and cycling.
What historical sites can I explore near Heriot?
The region is rich in history. You can visit Soutra Aisle and Medieval Hospital Site, which marks the location of a significant medieval hospital and offers information displays. Additionally, the Hirendean Castle Ruins, a 16th-century peel tower, provides a glimpse into the past amidst scenic surroundings. The Meldons Road also passes ancient forts and burial cairns.
Where can I find good places for cycling around Heriot?
Heriot is excellent for cycling. The Glentress Mountain Bike Centre is a premier destination for mountain biking with graded routes. For road cycling and touring, you can explore routes like 'The Granites' or 'The Meldons Road' which are part of the Road Cycling Routes around Heriot and Cycling around Heriot guides.
Are there any easy walks or trails suitable for a relaxed outing near Heriot?
For easy walks, the northern wooded shores of the Gladhouse Reservoir Scenic Road Section offer a peaceful experience. You can also find easy running and walking trails, such as the 'Woodland Trail โ Vogrie House loop', detailed in the Running Trails around Heriot guide.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do in the Heriot area?
Heriot offers a variety of outdoor activities. Mountain biking is popular at Glentress Mountain Bike Centre. Hiking and cycling are great around Gladhouse Reservoir. You can also find numerous running and cycling routes in the area, including those listed in the Running Trails, Road Cycling, and Cycling around Heriot guides.
Are there cafes or facilities available at the attractions?
Yes, the Glentress Mountain Bike Centre has a great cafe offering toasties and cakes, along with bike hire, washing facilities, showers, and lockers. Other attractions are more natural or historical sites, so it's advisable to check nearby villages for additional amenities.
Where can I find parking for trails and attractions near Heriot?
The Glentress Mountain Bike Centre offers plenty of car parking spaces. For other trails and attractions, parking availability can vary, so it's recommended to check specific location details or plan to park in nearby villages and access trails on foot or by bike.
What are some hidden gems or less-known outdoor spots around Heriot?
Beyond the main highlights, exploring the atmospheric valley along The Meldons Road reveals ancient forts and burial cairns, offering a sense of pre-history. The secluded Hirendean Castle Ruins, a 16th-century peel tower, also provides a unique historical discovery accessible via a walk through farmland.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Heriot?
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse outdoor experiences, from the well-maintained mountain biking trails at Glentress to the tranquil beauty of Gladhouse Reservoir. The historical depth found at sites like Soutra Aisle and along The Meldons Road also adds an atmospheric dimension to their visits.
Are there any viewpoints offering scenic vistas in the Heriot area?
Yes, several attractions double as excellent viewpoints. Soutra Aisle and Medieval Hospital Site offers good views of the surrounding countryside. Hirendean Castle Ruins provides views overlooking the River South Esk, and The Meldons Road is known for its dramatic vistas of the Black and White Meldons.
What is the best time of year to visit Heriot for outdoor activities?
The spring, summer, and early autumn months (roughly April to October) generally offer the most favorable weather for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and mountain biking around Heriot. During these periods, you'll experience longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, making exploration more comfortable.
Most popular attractions around Heriot
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