Pentland Hills
Visitor centre: Harlaw House, Road, Balerno, EH14 7AS
The Pentland Hills Regional Park is an area of natural beauty, covering 35 square miles to the south-west of Edinburgh. Just six miles from the city, you can soon be close to nature, in the tranquillity of the Pentlands. There is plenty to do in the Pentland Hills. Download this Visitor Guide and Map for some ideas and key information. Whatever you plan to do, please check the Pentland Hills’ rules and safety advice first.
The hills formed 430 million years ago when two continents collided beneath the ocean. Then they went through a period of volcanic eruptions and an ice age, which helped shape them into what we see today. The park has a number of archaeological remains, monuments and listed buildings within it. It has a rich history to discover. Including the Celtic settlers of Medieval times and Robert the Bruce’s frequent visits. Plus the Battle of Rullion Green, which took place there in 1666.
5 things to do in the Pentland Hills
- Go to one of the visitor centres within the park, Harlaw House Visitor Centre or Flotterstone Information Centre. These centres provide information and advice on things to do in the Pentland Hills.
- Walk or cycle one of the signposted routes across the Pentlands. Routes are colour coded. Green is for surfaced paths suitable for most people. Yellow means more difficult and irregular terrain. And red indicates routes over hilltops which are for experienced walkers and not recommended for cyclists.
- Discover Scottish wildlife. There are many habitats such as heather moorland, woodland, open grassland and reservoirs. This varied landscape allows over 900 recorded species of animals and plants to thrive. With an abundance of resident and migrating birds, the park is popular with birdwatchers and there are three enclosed bird hides.
- Visit Midlothian Snowsports Centre for a range of skiing and snowsport lessons.
- Other activities within the Pentlands include camping, fishing, horse riding and orienteering.
