Pentland Hills Regional Park (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Pentland Hills Regional Park?
What makes it 69% Baby-Friendly: Flat Harlaw and Flotterstone loops suit pushchairs; several toilets have baby-change space. Steep hill routes lack pram access and no dedicated nursing rooms.
Positives:
- Pushchair-friendly paths: Many trails have firm surfaces suitable for pushchairs.
- Baby changing: Several visitor centres have free changing facilities.
Challenges:
- Unpredictable weather: Rain and wind can arrive quickly on exposed hills.
- Limited nursing rooms: No dedicated nursing rooms; use café seating or accessible toilets.
What is Pentland Hills Regional Park?
- A regional park extending across approximately 90 square kilometres of upland moorland, ancient woodlands and pastoral farmland on Edinburgh’s southern fringe
- A landscape defined by nine peaks rising above 1,500 feet, interconnected by heather-clad ridges, peat bogs and a chain of freshwater reservoirs
- A designated area managed for the conservation of native habitats, historic hill farming and vital water catchments
What is so special about Pentland Hills Regional Park for with baby?
- Flat stroller-friendly loops around Harlaw and Flotterstone
- Accessible baby-change and toilet facilities at key points
- Picnic spots and café options for feeding and rest
- Short green-coded walks perfect for families with a baby
- Easy access by car with minimal walking to trailheads
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time for gentle walks and rest stops with a baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Pentland Hills Regional Park
Harlaw Reservoir stroller loop:
Follow a flat 3 km path around Harlaw Reservoir.
Tip: Start at Harlaw to use portacabin baby-change facilities and picnic benches.
Flotterstone accessible trail:
Paved 1 km woodland trail from Flotterstone Information Point.
Tip: Use the café for indoor feeding and toilet breaks.
Bonaly Reservoir short walk:
Under 2 km green-coded loop with firm surfaces.
Tip: Good for quick outings and has benches for rest.
Visitor centre stops:
Visit Harlaw House and Flotterstone centres for maps and facilities.
Tip: Check toilet opening times before you go.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Pentland Hills Regional Park
- Arrive early: Secure parking spots and avoid busy weekend crowds.
- Download maps: Save offline maps to plan routes without mobile signal.
- Pack a changing mat: Carry a portable mat for toilets without tables.
Reviews of Pentland Hills Regional Park
Kenneth Redpath
A lovely walk round threipmuir and harlaw reservoirs. Parking charges now in force £2.50 for a 2 hour stay.
Green Fields
Beautiful location. Used to go up there as I use to be a local in the area. Place to unwind on my days off after working in the bustling city 🤣. During COVID I remember meeting people that lived in Edinburgh for many years not realising that the Pentlands park was vast and beautiful ❤️ I've been in all types of weather and experienced the Pentlands at day and night. And it's beautiful all round. ...
Ratish Kumar Mani
This is my go-to place considering it's only a 15 min drive for me. Very quickly and easily immerse myself in nature and have some of the most amazing breathtaking views of the beautiful Glencorse reservoir. Great walking trails, smell of fresh sheep poo mixed with the mountains, there is something so magical and refreshing and healing. It's near the army reserves, so can see some young army fol...
Diane Henderson
10,000 hectares of rolling hills, farmland, waterways and stunning landscape. Signposted walks of various lengths, toilets, food-stops and plenty of wildlife. Frequent buses to Balerno from centre of Edinburgh. The park extends approximately 20 miles (30 kilometers) in length and boasts over 100 km of paths. The highest point in the Pentland Hills is Scald Law, standing at 579 meters (1,900 ft).
Sangeeta More
Spent a lovely day hiking in the Pentland Hills — stunning views, peaceful trails, and plenty of fresh air. Great for both casual walkers and more adventurous hikers. A real gem just outside Edinburgh! Highly recommend for a relaxing escape into nature
When is the best time to visit Pentland Hills Regional Park (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Winter paths can be muddy—pack boots and waterproofs. In summer near reservoirs, midges appear—use repellent.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking donation | GBP 2 |
| Café snack (2 coffees) | GBP 4 |
| Picnic supplies | GBP 5 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 11 |
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 Pentland Hills Regional Park
Address: Flotterstone EH26 0PP, UK
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About Pentland Hills Regional Park
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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