Edinburgh Hilltop Wildlife and Heritage Adventure

Explore Edinburgh’s hilltop horizon and countryside just to the South West of Edinburgh. The sight of hills close to the city is a constant and welcome reminder that the great outdoors and its wildlife is only a short distance away.
On our adventure we will learn about Edinburgh's UNESCO heritage, make it to a few hilltops, discover cairns, and enjoy the expansive views from relatively modest heights.

Home to more than 40 hills, 8 reservoirs and expansive moorland, these beautiful heather-covered hills hold a fantastic array of wildlife. This provides plenty of opportunity to be close to some of Scotland’s finest and well-loved animals.

Meeting Point

Pentland Hills Regional Park (Swanston)

122 Swanston Rd, Edinburgh EH10 7DS, UK

We meet in the regional park car park just beyond Swanston Golf Club. It is a small car park so you should see the guide immediately upon arrival. They will be in company branded hillwalking clothes.

What's included:

• English speaking guide
• Hi-Res Digital Photos (from company)
• Digital Photos (from event)
• Walking Pole (limited, with priority given to older individuals)

Not included:

• Raincoat / Kagool

What to expect:

Pentland Hills Regional Park (Swanston)

Stage 1 - Seven Hills
We make our way through the historic village of Swanston to our first stop. Here we will chat about Edinburgh's green spaces. It's also a great spot to photo the Seven Hills of Edinburgh and the Kingdom of Fife. The famous Highland Coos and birds of prey can also be spotted here.
Stage 2 - Stunnin' Allermuir
At 493m, Allermuir is the highest of the hills overlooking Edinburgh, providing outstanding 360 panoramic views on a good day. There's a viewpoint indicator to help you spot mountains 80km in the distance!

Stage 3 - Windy Door Nick
An easy walk above the city takes us over to a col (a dip between hills) where the fresh air is strengthened by a funnelling effect. It will give you a brief taste of this wonderful force of nature. It also provides another fantastic viewpoint south-west to the expansive Regional Park.

Stage 4 - Bronze Age Cairn
Reaching our second summit of the day our focus turns to Edinburgh's UNESCO heritage status. Learn about cairns, admire the view and see how the city has grown over the centuries. Standing on the ancient cairn provides a fantastic group photo!

Stage 5 - Walk Back Doon
Walk through Scottish heather and nature chat