Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill
Address: Edinburgh, EH9 3HR
The Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill is a local nature reserve, south of Edinburgh city centre. This area of natural beauty offers great hillside walking trails and amazing city views. The Hermitage of Braid was once a private estate, which was gifted to the city in 1937 and became a public park. Hermitage House, which was built in 1785, now serves as its Visitor Centre.
Walking trails follow the Braid Burn along the waters edge and through woodlands. Blackford Hill stands at 164 metres tall, with clear views over the city. It is home to the Royal Observatory, a centre for astronomical research and university teaching, established in 1896.
5 things to do at the Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill
- Enjoy a woodland walk along the Braid Burn.
- Drop into the Visitor Centre at Hermitage House.
- Visit Hermitage Walled Garden and dovecot.
- Walk up Blackford Hill for stunning views of Edinburgh city and the Pentland Hills.
- Attend a special event or pre-booked visit to the Royal Observatory (pre-booking essential).
