Pentland Hills Regional Park Headquarters at Hermitage of Braid
Explore 10,000 hectares of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure just minutes from Edinburgh’s city centre.
Pentland Hills Regional Park Headquarters, located at 69a Hermitage of Braid, Edinburgh, serves as the gateway to a vast 10,000-hectare natural landscape offering over 100 km of trails. This living, working countryside features diverse habitats, panoramic views, and activities such as walking, cycling, horse riding, fishing, and orienteering. The park combines natural beauty with rich history, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts near Edinburgh.
A brief summary to Pentland Hills Regional Park H.Q.
- 69a Hermitage of Braid, Braid Rd, Edinburgh, EH10 6JF, GB
- +441315292401
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 6 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-12:30 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as trails vary from easy paths to steep, challenging hill climbs.
- Keep dogs on a short lead during lambing season and around wildlife to protect livestock and birds.
- Visit the Harlaw House or Flotterstone visitor centres for maps, advice, and information about current conditions.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the park supports over 900 species of flora and fauna.
- Check weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly on the hills.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Lothian Buses service 44 or 45 from central Edinburgh to the Hermitage of Braid area. The journey typically takes 30–40 minutes. Buses run frequently during daytime hours; check schedules in advance. Walking from the nearest stop to the park headquarters is about 5 minutes on paved roads.
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Car
Driving from Edinburgh city centre to Hermitage of Braid takes approximately 15–25 minutes depending on traffic. Limited parking is available near the park headquarters. Note that parking spaces can fill quickly on weekends and holidays. There is no parking fee.
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Train and Walk
Take a train from Edinburgh Waverley to Balerno station (approximately 20 minutes), then enjoy a 30-minute walk through local paths to reach Hermitage of Braid. This route offers a scenic approach but involves some uphill walking. Check train times as service frequency varies.
Pentland Hills Regional Park H.Q. location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Pentland Hills Regional Park H.Q.
A Living Landscape Shaped by Nature and People
The Pentland Hills Regional Park is a sprawling natural area covering approximately 10,000 hectares just southwest of Edinburgh. Sculpted over millions of years by glaciers, volcanic activity, and water, the hills have been shaped further by human activity for thousands of years. This dynamic landscape is a mosaic of wildlife habitats, open spaces, farmland, and reservoirs. The park’s terrain ranges from gentle paths suitable for casual walkers to challenging hilltop routes for experienced hikers, offering a rich outdoor experience for all levels.Rich History and Cultural Heritage
The park is steeped in history, with archaeological remains, monuments, and listed buildings scattered throughout. It has connections to Celtic settlers, medieval times, and notable figures such as Robert the Bruce. The Battle of Rullion Green in 1666 also took place within the park’s boundaries, adding to its historical significance. Visitors can explore these cultural landmarks alongside the natural beauty, gaining insight into the region’s past.Outdoor Activities and Wildlife Diversity
With over 100 km of waymarked paths, the park invites visitors to engage in walking, cycling, horse riding, fishing, and orienteering. The varied habitats support more than 900 species of plants and animals, including resident and migratory birds, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. The park’s reservoirs and woodlands provide scenic backdrops for picnics, photography, and nature observation throughout the year.Visitor Facilities and Ranger Support
The park headquarters at Hermitage of Braid acts as an information hub, complemented by visitor centres such as Harlaw House and Flotterstone Information Centre. These centres offer advice, displays, and resources to help visitors plan their activities safely and responsibly. The dedicated Ranger Service maintains trails, provides education on the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, and supports conservation efforts to preserve the park’s character and biodiversity.Seasonal Considerations and Responsible Access
Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and farming activities, especially during sensitive periods such as lambing or grouse shooting seasons. Dogs should be kept under close control to avoid disturbing wildlife and livestock. The park’s management emphasizes responsible access to protect habitats and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all.Scenic Views and Panoramic Vistas
From the higher summits, visitors are rewarded with sweeping views across the Firth of Forth, the Scottish Borders, and as far as Ben Lomond. These iconic vistas highlight the park’s unique position as a natural escape so close to Edinburgh, blending tranquil rural landscapes with dramatic hill scenery.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Caiy Stane
2.1 km
A 2.7-meter prehistoric stone marking ancient mysteries on Edinburgh's southern edge.
Historic Environment Scotland
2.4 km
Victorian hospital turned heritage headquarters, where Scotland's architectural legacy is preserved and celebrated.
Meadows Compass
2.6 km
A serene landmark at the heart of Edinburgh’s beloved green space, blending history, community, and nature.
Flodden Wall
2.9 km
Explore Edinburgh’s medieval Flodden Wall, a historic sandstone fortification built after 1513 to protect the city and shape its iconic Old Town skyline.
Innocent Railway Tunnel
3.0 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest railway tunnel, a historic horse-drawn coal route transformed into a vibrant urban walking and cycling path in Edinburgh.
Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
3.0 km
Discover the haunting beauty of Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh's historic cemetery filled with stories, legends, and architectural wonders.
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
3.0 km
Discover the heartwarming tale of Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s beloved loyal Skye Terrier immortalized in bronze near Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
3.1 km
Explore the mystical Thomas Riddell's Grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic site rich with tales of the past and connections to the Harry Potter universe.
National Museum of Scotland
3.1 km
Discover Scotland's rich heritage at the National Museum of Scotland, an engaging cultural hub showcasing the nation's history and identity.
Lothian Rd
3.1 km
Explore Edinburgh's Lothian Road: A bustling hub of history, culture, and contemporary charm awaits every traveler.
Great Hall
3.1 km
Explore The Great Hall at Edinburgh Castle, a stunning historical landmark showcasing Scotland's royal heritage and architectural beauty.
Surgeons' Hall Museums
3.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s historic Surgeons' Hall Museums, where medical history, pathology, and surgical innovation come vividly to life in a landmark setting.
Talbot Rice Gallery, The University of Edinburgh
3.1 km
Explore the Talbot Rice Gallery in Edinburgh for a captivating blend of contemporary and historical art in a stunning university setting.
Pont George Ⅳ
3.1 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
George IV Bridge
3.2 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Blackford Hill
0.5 km
A peaceful hilltop nature reserve in Edinburgh offering panoramic city views, historic ruins, and the Royal Observatory.
Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve
0.6 km
A tranquil 149-acre nature reserve in Edinburgh with woodland trails, historic Hermitage House, and panoramic views from Blackford Hill.
Royal Observatory Edinburgh
0.9 km
Explore Scotland’s premier astronomical research centre atop Blackford Hill, blending historic grandeur with cutting-edge science and breathtaking views.
Wild West
1.2 km
Step into Edinburgh’s hidden Wild West alley, a quirky frontier town replica nestled in the heart of Morningside.
Merchiston Tower
1.7 km
Explore the historical gem of Merchiston Tower in Edinburgh, a captivating landmark showcasing Scotland's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Bruntsfield Links
2.2 km
Historic Edinburgh parkland famed for its ancient golfing heritage, scenic green spaces, and vibrant community atmosphere.
Craiglockhart Castle
2.3 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Craiglockhart Castle, a 15th-century tower house nestled within Edinburgh Napier University’s scenic campus.
Union Canal
2.3 km
A historic, scenic canal in Edinburgh offering peaceful towpaths, vibrant community events, and engineering marvels like the Falkirk Wheel.
Art & Craft Collective
2.3 km
Discover unique handmade arts and crafts by Edinburgh’s local artists in a vibrant, welcoming gallery shop in Newington.
The Blackbird
2.4 km
A lively Edinburgh gastropub with a spacious beer garden, modern Scottish cuisine, and a welcoming, eclectic atmosphere.
Edinburgh Cab Tours
2.4 km
Experience Edinburgh like never before with personalized tours from Edinburgh Cab Tours, uncovering history, culture, and breathtaking views.
Summerhall
2.5 km
Historic Edinburgh venue blending art galleries, theaters, live music, and festive markets in a vibrant cultural hub.
1 Summerhall Square
2.6 km
Historic Edinburgh venue blending Edwardian architecture and modernist design, now a vibrant arts hub and major Fringe Festival site.
Summerhall Distillery
2.6 km
Edinburgh’s first exclusive gin distillery in over 150 years, crafting award-winning spirits in a historic arts hub.
Lochrin Basin
2.6 km
A serene canal terminus blending historic charm and modern urban life in the heart of Edinburgh’s Fountainbridge.
Essential places to dine
The Rabbit Hole
2.1 km
Cozy British dining with modern French flair in Edinburgh’s welcoming Marchmont neighborhood.
Wee Greek Kitchen
2.6 km
Experience authentic Greek hospitality and flavors in a cozy Edinburgh neighborhood with live music and generous portions.
Blonde Restaurant
2.8 km
Modern European dining with a Scottish twist in Edinburgh’s welcoming Southside neighbourhood.
First Coast Restaurant
2.9 km
Modern Scottish cuisine in a relaxed West End neighbourhood setting, celebrating local ingredients and attentive hospitality.
Locanda de Gusti
2.9 km
Authentic Neapolitan seafood and Italian flavours served in a cozy, homely setting on Edinburgh’s Dalry Road.
tapas3
2.9 km
Authentic Spanish tapas with generous portions and warm hospitality in Edinburgh’s charming Southside neighborhood.
TIMBERYARD
2.9 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
MUMS Great Comfort Food
3.0 km
Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
Beehive Inn
3.1 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
Dine Edinburgh
3.1 km
Elegant Scottish brasserie above the Traverse Theatre, blending seasonal local flavors with refined service and a chic cocktail lounge.
Under The Stairs
3.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
3.1 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
The Outsider Restaurant
3.2 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
The Cellar Door
3.2 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Palmerston
3.2 km
A stylish West End restaurant serving modern Scottish cuisine in a refined, relaxed setting just steps from Edinburgh’s city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Everyone's Designs
1.7 km
Discover unique, eco-friendly gifts and artistic cards at Everyone's Designs, Edinburgh’s creative heart on Bruntsfield Place.
Nice Stuff
1.9 km
Discover unique, affordable gifts and stylish homewares in Edinburgh’s charming Bruntsfield neighborhood.
Emporium 62
2.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich heritage through unique antiques and collectibles at Emporium 62, a charming treasure trove on Home Street.
Freak Unique
2.5 km
Edinburgh's eclectic fashion sanctuary for those who dare to dress differently.
Edinburgh Art Shop
2.7 km
Edinburgh Art Shop offers a warm, expert-led art supply experience with quality materials and a creative community spirit in the heart of Edinburgh.
Poundland
2.8 km
Affordable shopping in Edinburgh’s city centre with a vast range of quality products all priced to save you money.
Carnivàle Vintage
2.9 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Herman Brown
2.9 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
Godiva
3.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Armstrongs Vintage
3.1 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
Mr Wood's Fossils
3.1 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
The Enchanted Galaxy
3.2 km
Dive into a wizarding wonderland on Victoria Street, where Harry Potter treasures and fantasy fandoms burst from every shelf in Edinburgh's most enchanting gift shop.
Portcullis Gift Shop
3.2 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
3.2 km
Edinburgh's iconic artisan cheese shop where small-scale makers meet passionate consumers on the city's most storied street.
Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
3.3 km
Discover Scotland's rich textile heritage at the Tartan Weaving Mill, where history meets craftsmanship in a vibrant exhibition and unique shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hermitage Bar
0.8 km
A welcoming gastropub in Edinburgh’s Morningside offering classic British comfort food, local brews, and a vibrant neighborhood atmosphere.
The Argyle and Cellar Bar
2.1 km
A vibrant Edinburgh pub with cozy cellar music, quality ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Argyle Place.
Salisbury Arms Edinburgh
2.6 km
A stylish gastropub blending traditional charm with fresh British fare and vibrant local atmosphere in Edinburgh’s southside.
The Raging Bull
2.8 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.
SKYbar Edinburgh
2.9 km
Experience Edinburgh’s skyline with exquisite cocktails and stunning castle views at SKYbar, the city’s premier rooftop destination.
Dragonfly
2.9 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
The Jolly Botanist
3.1 km
A Victorian-style gin bar in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for its botanical cocktails, hearty Scottish fare, and warm, quirky atmosphere.
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
3.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s craft beer culture in a vibrant, historic setting with legendary wings, 28 taps, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
3.1 km
Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
Frankenstein
3.1 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
The Oz Bar
3.1 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
3.1 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
Captain's Bar
3.2 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
NQ64 Edinburgh
3.2 km
A neon-lit arcade bar in Edinburgh blending retro gaming classics with creative cocktails and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
The Bow Bar
3.2 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Tropicana
3.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
The Bongo Club
3.2 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
3.2 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
3.2 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Liquid Room
3.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Mash House
3.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
3.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
3.3 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
3.4 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
3.4 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
3.6 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
3.6 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
El Barrio Latino
3.7 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Opal Lounge
3.7 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Shanghai Nightclub
3.7 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
