Pentland Hills Regional Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Pentland Hills Regional Park?
What makes it 83% Kids-Friendly: Biodiversity trails, mystery walk, ranger events and picnic tables keep 5-12s active and learning. Open water and steep ridges need close adult watch.
Positives:
- Interactive learning: Scavenger and mystery trails keep children engaged.
- Family-friendly facilities: Visitor centres offer toilets, picnic tables and free maps.
Challenges:
- Trail difficulty: Some routes have steep sections that may tire younger children.
- Limited café hours: Flotterstone Café is open only Thurs–Sun; pack snacks at other times.
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 kids?
- Interactive trails like the biodiversity and mystery loops
- Short circular routes under 5 km ideal for little legs
- Wildlife hides offer close-up nature spotting
- Junior Ranger programme for hands-on fun
- Picnic areas and a café provide rest and refuel options
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to complete one or two easy family trails and a picnic break without tiring younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Pentland Hills Regional Park
Harlaw Biodiversity Trail:
Follow numbered posts around Harlaw Reservoir to spot plants and creatures.
Tip: Collect free maps and pencils at Harlaw House Visitor Centre before you start.
Flotterstone Glen Mystery Trail:
Solve mystery-themed clues along the waymarked 2 km loop from Flotterstone Information Point.
Tip: Pick up the clue sheet at Flotterstone and read hints aloud to engage younger children.
Four family-friendly circular walks:
Short green-coded routes under 5 km through open grassland and woodland.
Tip: Plan a picnic break at benches marked on the routes.
Wildlife hides and garden:
Visit enclosed hides at Harlaw, Threipmuir and Loganlea for quiet bird watching.
Tip: Bring binoculars and stay silent to see birds up close.
Junior Ranger programme:
Join free monthly sessions with Rangers for crafts, wildlife surveys and path activities.
Tip: Check park Facebook and book in advance to secure a spot.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Pentland Hills Regional Park
- Early start: Arrive before 10 am to secure parking and avoid crowds.
- Pick up trails: Collect free trail maps and clue sheets at visitor centres.
- Pack a picnic: Bring food to enjoy at reservoir benches if café is closed.
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)?
In summer start early to avoid heat and crowds. In spring and autumn enjoy wildflowers and coloured leaves. In winter pack waterproof boots and warm layers—trails can get muddy.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Car park fee | GBP 2 |
| Café snacks and drinks | GBP 12 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 14 |
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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