Pentland Hills Regional Park (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Pentland Hills Regional Park?
What makes it 87% Solo-Friendly: Many graded hikes, biking and hides suit independent pace; visitor centres give maps and safety advice. Limited shelters mean solo hikers need good gear in sudden rain.
Positives:
- Trail Variety: Choose from easy reservoir loops to challenging ridge routes.
- Accessible Information: Pick up free leaflets and maps at Flotterstone and Harlaw centres.
Challenges:
- Weather Changes: Conditions shift fast—carry windproof and waterproof layers.
- Limited Mobile Signal: Download offline maps and share your route before heading out.
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 solo trip?
- Hike the Threipmuir–Scald Law loop for a safe solo journey.
- Cycle varied, signposted trails across forest and moorland.
- Watch birds from reservoir hides with your own binoculars.
- Challenge yourself with orienteering courses in the park.
- Camp wild under access rights for sunrise views on the hills.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: 2-3 hours allows a moderate loop walk and time for wildlife hides without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Pentland Hills Regional Park
Threipmuir to Scald Law Loop:
12 km moderate hike from Threipmuir Reservoir to Scald Law summit and back.
Tip: Start early, follow waymarkers and carry a map for navigation.
Signposted Mountain Bike Trails:
Ride green, yellow or red-coded routes through forests and moorland ridges.
Tip: Avoid ridge paths when wet to prevent trail damage.
Reservoir Bird Hides:
Visit hides at Harlaw, Threipmuir and Loganlea for close-up bird-watching.
Tip: Bring binoculars and stay silent to attract more species.
Permanent Orienteering Courses:
Test map-reading skills on courses at Bonaly, Castlelaw and Hillend.
Tip: Purchase a course map (£3-£5) and download an offline GPS route.
Wild Camping:
Camp under outdoor access rights for up to three nights.
Tip: Pitch well away from roads, follow Leave No Trace rules.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Pentland Hills Regional Park
- Use Public Transport: Catch Lothian Buses No.44 to Balerno to avoid parking fees.
- Plan at Visitor Centres: Get up-to-date trail info and maps at Flotterstone or Harlaw.
- Pack Snacks and Water: Fill bottles at home; there are no refill points on routes.
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 late summer, hills bloom with purple heather. Winter hikes need early starts for daylight and warm layers. Spring paths can be muddy—wear waterproof boots.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Bus fare (No.44 return) | GBP 3 |
| Car park donation | GBP 2 |
| Orienteering map purchase | GBP 5 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 10 |
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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