Explore self-guided walking holidays where nature and city life meet — scenic, storied, and always within reach.
Edinburgh & The Lothians offer a rare kind of walking — immersive, varied, and surprisingly close. Trails rise to volcanic crags, skirt the shoreline, and meander through woodlands and parkland, making the region ideally suited to relaxed walking holidays shaped by both landscape and city life. From castle views to coastal horizons, the transition from urban to wild is often just a few steps.
This is walking for everyday adventure. Whether it’s a pre-breakfast climb up Arthur’s Seat, a quiet woodland loop, or a full-day stretch along the East Lothian coast, the landscapes here offer perspective, presence, and ease. Along these well-connected routes, you’ll also find a wide choice of independent places to stay, from city-based hotels to coastal guesthouses and small rural retreats.
Flat coastal sections, converted railway paths, and quiet inland lanes also make the region appealing for slower cycling holidays, particularly between seaside towns and countryside villages. For those seeking a wider mix of experiences, Edinburgh & The Lothians support a broad range of outdoor adventures, from sea paddling and wildlife watching to hill walking and heritage exploration.
A rugged volcanic hill at the heart of the city. Climb to the summit for sweeping views over Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth, or explore lower trails through gorse-covered slopes, lochs, and crags rich in royal and geological history.
A long-distance coast-to-coast trail that begins in East Lothian at Dunbar. The early sections follow coastal paths and farmland tracks through villages, beaches, and open countryside — a gentle but inspiring start to a cross-Scotland journey.
A classic shoreline stretch of sandy beaches, historic harbours, golf links, and wildlife-rich clifftops. Ideal for day walks with sea air, birdlife, and plentiful stopping points for food, views, and reflection.
In Edinburgh & The Lothians, walking weaves effortlessly through history, city life, and quiet nature. You don’t need to go far — just step outside, follow the path, and let the landscape open out ahead of you.
You can climb volcanic hills, follow coastal paths, walk through royal parks, explore woodlands, visit historic harbours, and enjoy nature escapes right on the city’s edge.
Highlights include Arthur’s Seat & Holyrood Park, the early stages of the John Muir Way, and the coastal route from Musselburgh to North Berwick.
Yes. Alongside walking, the region offers cycling routes, sea kayaking in suitable conditions, wildlife watching, and heritage exploration at castles, gardens, and abbeys.
The region is walkable year-round. Spring and summer offer long days and mild weather, while autumn brings colourful foliage and winter offers crisp, clear hill views.
Yes. The area supports both self-guided and guided walking holidays, from short city-and-coast escapes to longer itineraries linking the region’s main landscapes.
