Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve?
What makes it 61% Baby-Friendly: Flat paths around the pond suit sturdy strollers and benches help for feeds, yet no formal baby-changing units and muddy slopes mean caregivers of infants should prepare extra gear and keep to level areas.
Positives:
- Free entry and parking: Car parks at Midmar Drive, Braid Road and Observatory are free.
- Stroller-friendly paths: Level routes around the pond and to visitor centre suit pushchairs.
- Indoor rest spots: Hermitage House seating and gazebo protect against bad weather.
Challenges:
- Uneven woodland trails: Steeper dirt paths beyond the pond can be muddy and rough for strollers.
- No changing facilities: Public toilets have no baby-changing unit—bring a portable mat.
- Weather exposure: Open hilltop sections can be windy; dress in layers and shield baby.
What is Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve?
- A Local Nature Reserve spanning ancient woodlands, open grassland and riparian corridors along the Braid Burn on Edinburgh’s south side
- A biologically diverse landscape supporting native flora and fauna across mature beech and ash woodlands, heathland, pond and rocky knolls
- A protected green space anchored by the 19th-century Hermitage House and ice house, crowned by the Royal Observatory atop Blackford Hill
What is so special about Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve for with baby?
- Level pond loop ideal for strollers
- Free visitor centre offers indoor break
- Gazebo and benches for picnic, feeds and changes
- Baby-friendly views of pond wildlife
- Panoramic city vista from hilltop
- Free parking at multiple entrances
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for a gentle walk, visitor centre break, pond play and picnic without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve
Blackford Pond stroller loop:
Follow the firm path around the pond for easy terrain with pond views.
Tip: Use a sturdy stroller or baby carrier; stop at benches under the gazebo for breaks.
Hermitage House Visitor Centre:
Explore indoor wildlife displays and rest out of the weather.
Tip: Open Mon–Fri 9 am–4 pm; bring your stroller inside and use seating areas for feeds.
Pond wildlife feeding:
Let your baby watch swans, ducks and geese from the bank.
Tip: Bring pre-approved bird feed in sealed bags; supervise closely to avoid slips.
Picnic at covered gazebo:
Enjoy sheltered benches near the play area for feeds or changing.
Tip: Pack a changing mat; choose the gazebo to stay dry if it drizzles.
Summit viewpoint on Blackford Hill:
Short uphill path to a panorama over Edinburgh.
Tip: Carry your baby in a sling for steeper sections; pause often to rest.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve
- Arrive early: Early mornings offer quieter trails and easier parking.
- Bring a sling: Use a baby carrier for steeper or muddy sections beyond the pond.
- Pack light snacks: Keep baby and adults fueled with easy-to-eat items on the trail.
- Check weather: Plan around drizzle by using the visitor centre or gazebo for cover.
Reviews of Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve
Arman Khachatryan
This reserve combines natural and historical interest within the city. The 18th-century Hermitage house overlooks the Braid Burn valley, while the surrounding meadows, woodland, and ponds of the Local Nature Reserve support diverse wildlife, all crowned by the summit views from Blackford Hill.
James Dodds
Lovely walks and great views
Ashleigh
Absolutely beautiful place, even in winter. It’s my absolute favourite thing to grab a hot drink and go for a wander, and this place allows exactly that. Easy to get to via bus (I recommend putting directions on Google Maps to “The Lodge Coffee House” for this entrance) - this entrance has three paths you can choose from, the middle being paved and fairly flat the whole way for easy access (I saw...
Rachel Pitches
A walk through the Hermitage of the Braid is a delight at any time of year, then climb to the top of Blackford Hill and be stunned by the fantastic views over Edinburgh and far beyond. It's a gentle climb but can be muddy along the burn. A great place for happy dog walking.
Olubunmi Bitrus
It was a pleasure to have walked the length of the nature reserve. I went there right after dropping my wee ones at school on a Thursday morning. Most people were nice and exchanged brief hellos. Several people were out with their dogs, I saw a family having a birthday hangout with their kids, a couple of runners and cyclists, and some squirrels. Very large and indeed well reserved.
When is the best time to visit Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Spring brings bluebells under the trees. Summer needs sun hat and water. After rain, paths get muddy—wear boots. In winter, try sledging at nearby Midmar Paddock when there’s snow.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking | GBP 0 |
| Visitor centre entry | GBP 0 |
| Picnic supplies | GBP 10 |
| Café snack | GBP 5 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 15 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve
Address: Hermitage of Braid, Edinburgh EH9 3HJ, UK
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About Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+44 131 529 240110 BEST nearby Activities
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