Exploring Edinburgh’s Best Running Routes: A Comprehensive Guide
Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city, is renowned for its historic landmarks, stunning architecture, and scenic landscapes. For runners, Edinburgh offers a variety of picturesque routes that traverse ancient streets, expansive parks, and dramatic coastlines. Whether you prefer leisurely jogs through historic sites or challenging hillside trails with panoramic views, Edinburgh provides running opportunities to suit all preferences and fitness levels. This detailed guide explores some of the best running routes in Edinburgh, highlighting their unique features, terrain specifics, and practical tips for an enjoyable running experience.
1. Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat
Overview: Holyrood Park, situated at the end of the Royal Mile, encompasses the iconic Arthur’s Seat and offers runners a blend of historic landmarks and rugged natural terrain.
Route Highlights:
- Distance: Variable, from 3-5 miles (multiple loops and paths)
- Terrain: Hilly with gravel paths and rocky sections
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Route Description: Start near the Palace of Holyroodhouse and follow the paths that wind through Holyrood Park. Ascend Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views over Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and beyond. Choose from various trails around the park, such as the Salisbury Crags or Dunsapie Loch, for additional distances and challenges. Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat provide runners with a scenic and invigorating route amidst ancient volcanic landscapes and historical landmarks.
Practical Tips:
- Facilities: Toilets, cafes, and parking available near the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
- Best Time to Run: Early mornings for quieter trails; sunset for spectacular views.
- Safety: Variable terrain; wear sturdy shoes and be cautious on steep paths.
2. Water of Leith Walkway
Overview: The Water of Leith Walkway follows the course of the River Leith from Balerno to Leith, offering runners a tranquil route through urban and suburban landscapes.
Route Highlights:
- Distance: Variable, from 3-12 miles (out-and-back or loop options)
- Terrain: Mixed terrain with gravel paths, some paved sections
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Route Description: Start at Dean Village or Balerno and follow the Water of Leith Walkway alongside the river. Runners can enjoy views of wooded areas, wildlife, and historic landmarks such as Dean Village and the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art. Extend your run towards Stockbridge or Leith for longer distances. The Water of Leith Walkway is popular with runners, cyclists, and walkers, providing a peaceful escape from urban bustle with scenic views and natural beauty.
Practical Tips:
- Facilities: Toilets, cafes, and parking available at various points along the Water of Leith Walkway.
- Best Time to Run: Early mornings for quieter paths; weekends can be busier with recreational users.
- Safety: Shared path; be courteous to other users and watch for cyclists.
3. Royal Botanic Garden and Inverleith Park
Overview: The Royal Botanic Garden and adjacent Inverleith Park offer runners a blend of botanical beauty, open green spaces, and panoramic views towards Edinburgh Castle.
Route Highlights:
- Distance: Variable, from 2-5 miles (multiple loops and paths)
- Terrain: Mixed terrain with paved paths, some grassy sections
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Route Description: Start at the Royal Botanic Garden and explore the paths that wind through its landscaped gardens and glasshouses. Run towards Inverleith Park for open green spaces and views over the city skyline. Extend your run towards Stockbridge or Canonmills for longer distances. The Royal Botanic Garden and Inverleith Park provide runners with a tranquil and visually appealing route amidst botanical diversity and historical surroundings.
Practical Tips:
- Facilities: Toilets, cafes, and parking available near the Royal Botanic Garden and Inverleith Park.
- Best Time to Run: Mornings for quieter paths; weekdays are generally less busy with visitors.
- Safety: Well-maintained paths; suitable for evening runs.
4. Calton Hill and Regent Road Park
Overview: Calton Hill, located east of Edinburgh city center, offers runners a historical and panoramic route with views over the city, Edinburgh Castle, and the Firth of Forth.
Route Highlights:
- Distance: Approximately 2-3 miles (loop options)
- Terrain: Hilly with paved paths and grassy slopes
- Difficulty: Moderate
Route Description: Start near Princes Street and ascend Calton Hill via Regent Road Park or the steps from Waterloo Place. Runners can enjoy views of the National Monument, Nelson Monument, and panoramic vistas over Edinburgh’s skyline. Extend your run towards Holyrood Park or the Scottish Parliament for additional routes. Calton Hill and Regent Road Park offer runners a historical and scenic route amidst iconic landmarks and dramatic city views.
Practical Tips:
- Facilities: Toilets, cafes, and parking available near Princes Street and Calton Hill.
- Best Time to Run: Early mornings or evenings for quieter paths; sunset for stunning views.
- Safety: Steep paths; exercise caution on uneven terrain.
5. Cramond Promenade and Cramond Island
Overview: Cramond, located northwest of Edinburgh city center, offers runners a coastal route along the promenade and access to Cramond Island at low tide.
Route Highlights:
- Distance: Variable, from 3-6 miles (out-and-back or loop options)
- Terrain: Flat with paved paths and sandy beach sections
- Difficulty: Easy
Route Description: Start at Cramond village and follow the promenade alongside the Firth of Forth towards Cramond Island. Runners can enjoy views of the Forth bridges, tidal causeway to Cramond Island (check tide times), and coastal scenery. Extend your run towards Silverknowes or Dalmeny Estate for longer distances. Cramond Promenade and Cramond Island offer runners a refreshing coastal route with historical interest and scenic views over Edinburgh’s waterfront.
Practical Tips:
- Facilities: Toilets, cafes, and parking available in Cramond village.
- Best Time to Run: Early mornings for quieter paths; check tide times for access to Cramond Island.
- Safety: Watch for changing tides; follow safety guidelines when crossing to Cramond Island.
6. Pentland Hills Regional Park
Overview: For runners seeking a more rugged and challenging terrain, Pentland Hills Regional Park offers expansive moorland, reservoirs, and panoramic views south of Edinburgh.
Route Highlights:
- Distance: Variable, from 3-15+ miles (multiple trails and loop options)
- Terrain: Hilly with rugged paths, grassland, and reservoirs
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Route Description: Drive or take a bus to Hillend and start your run at Harlaw or Threipmuir reservoirs. Explore the paths that wind through Pentland Hills Regional Park, enjoying panoramic views over Edinburgh, the Pentland Hills, and reservoirs such as Bonaly and Clubbiedean. Choose from various trails, such as the Pentland Ridge or Water of Leith Walkway, for different distances and challenges. Pentland Hills Regional Park offers runners a rugged and scenic route amidst natural beauty and wildlife.
Practical Tips:
- Facilities: Limited facilities in Pentland Hills; bring sufficient water and supplies.
- Best Time to Run: Mornings for quieter trails; weekends can be busier with hikers.
- Safety: Variable terrain; wear sturdy shoes and be cautious on steep descents.
Conclusion
Edinburgh’s running routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from historic landmarks and scenic parks to rugged hills and coastal promenades. Whether you’re a local runner exploring new paths or a visitor seeking to experience Edinburgh’s natural beauty and cultural heritage on foot, there’s a route to suit every preference and fitness level. Lace up your running shoes, explore these diverse routes, and enjoy staying active while discovering the best of Edinburgh’s outdoor spaces.
