4.6
(2628)
33,056
hikers
741
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Loanhead And District offer access to a varied landscape in Midlothian, Scotland. The region is characterized by the dramatic Pentland Hills to the west, featuring heather moorland and rough grassland, and the lush River North Esk valley to the east. Elevations in the Pentland Hills reach up to 1,900 feet (579 meters), providing panoramic views. The area also includes accessible nature reserves like Straiton Pond, which features paths through woodlands and around a pond.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.7
(19)
89
hikers
8.64km
02:22
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
24
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
6.50km
01:41
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
12.4km
03:19
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Loanhead And District
Small chapel at the exit of the village perched on a rocky spur, magnificent!
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This monument commemorates the historic Battle of Roslin. The battle took place in 1303 and was a part of the ongoing Wars of Scottish Independence that saw the Scots successfully repel an English invasion.
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Rosslyn Chapel – the legendary church in Scotland. Rosslyn Chapel has been a place steeped in myth for centuries. The treasure of the Knights Templar and the Holy Grail are said to be hidden here. A visit to a masterpiece of stonemasonry in Scotland. But be sure to book an appointment online! All information here: https://www.myhighlands.de/rosslyn-chapel/
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The partially ruined 14th century castle holds a great position in the Roslin Glen. The high bridge used to access the castle would have been strong defence and was rebuilt to update the fortification in 1544. In 1980 the ruins where partially restored and you can now stay in the holiday accommodation in part of the castle.
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If you have a dog you will only be able to walk round the outer wall as dogs are not allowed in the grounds
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The chapel from the Da Vinci Code. Even if you don't care for Dan Brown's novel/film then this is a beautiful church with a rich history and well worth a stop off.
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There are over 770 hiking routes in Loanhead And District that start directly from bus stations, offering a wide variety of car-free adventures.
Yes, a significant number of bus-accessible trails are suitable for beginners. For example, the Bilston Glen Bridge – Battle of Roslin Monument loop from Loanhead is an easy 5.3 km route, and the Frozen Straiton Pond – Straiton Graffiti Tunnel loop from Burdiehouse is an even shorter 2.5 km easy walk.
Many of the bus-accessible routes in Loanhead And District are circular, allowing you to return to your starting bus stop without retracing your steps. An example is the moderate Roslin Castle – Rosslyn Chapel loop from Loanhead, which is 8.6 km long.
The bus-accessible hikes vary widely. You can find easy walks like the 2.5 km Frozen Straiton Pond – Straiton Graffiti Tunnel loop from Burdiehouse, taking about 40 minutes. Moderate trails, such as the 8.6 km Roslin Castle – Rosslyn Chapel loop from Loanhead, typically take around 2 hours and 20 minutes. There are also longer, more challenging options available.
Yes, many trails are family-friendly, especially those around the Straiton Pond Local Nature Reserve, which offer accessible paths and opportunities for wildlife observation. Look for routes marked as 'easy' for the most suitable options.
Most outdoor areas in Loanhead And District are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or in nature reserves like Straiton Pond. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
You can explore diverse landscapes, from the rugged Pentland Hills to the serene River North Esk valley. The Straiton Pond Local Nature Reserve is a notable wildlife haven. For panoramic views, some routes offer glimpses of distant peaks like Arthur's Seat.
Absolutely. The region is rich in history. The Roslin Castle – Rosslyn Chapel loop from Loanhead is an excellent choice, connecting you to historic sites like Roslin Castle and Rosslyn Chapel. Another route, the Battle of Roslin Monument – Rosslyn Chapel loop from Loanhead, also passes by significant historical landmarks.
The Straiton Pond Local Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for wildlife observation. Its accessible paths around the pond and through woodlands make it ideal for spotting various bird species and other local fauna.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the dramatic Pentland Hills to the peaceful River North Esk valley, and the convenience of accessing trails directly from public transport.
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous trek, routes like the Battle of Roslin Monument – Bilston Glen Bridge loop from Loanhead offer a moderate challenge, covering nearly 12.4 km with significant elevation changes. The nearby Pentland Hills also offer more demanding trails for experienced hikers.


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