Explore the Ancient Echoes of Castlelaw Hill Fort
Discover the ancient remnants and stunning vistas of Castlelaw Hill Fort, a historical gem in the heart of Scotland's countryside.
Nestled in the scenic Scottish countryside, Castlelaw Hill Fort invites tourists to explore a significant historical site that dates back to the Iron Age. As you ascend the hill, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. This ancient fortification offers a glimpse into Scotland's rich history, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Castlelaw Hill Fort
- 2, 2 Castlelaw Cottages, Penicuik, EH26 0PB, GB
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening for fewer crowds and the best light for photography.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy while taking in the stunning views from the fort.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change quickly in the hills.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes surrounding the fort.
Getting There
-
Bus
From Edinburgh city center, head to the nearest bus stop and take bus number 37 from St Andrew Square. This bus will take you directly to Penicuik. After approximately 30-40 minutes, get off at the 'Penicuik, High Street' stop. From there, walk along High Street until you reach the roundabout. Take the first exit onto the A701 and continue walking for about 15 minutes. You will see signs for Castlelaw Hill Fort as you approach the area.
-
Train and Walk
Take the train from Edinburgh Waverley Station to Penicuik. The train journey takes about 20 minutes. Once you arrive at Penicuik station, exit the station and walk along the main road towards the A701. Turn left onto the A701 and follow the road for approximately 25 minutes until you reach Castlelaw Hill Fort. Look for signs directing you to the fort as you approach.
-
Walking
If you are in the south of Edinburgh, you can walk to Castlelaw Hill Fort. Start from the area of the Scottish Parliament and head south towards Holyrood Park. Enter the park and follow paths leading to the southern exit. Continue walking along the A702 road towards Penicuik for about 2 miles. Upon reaching the roundabout, take the first exit onto the A701 and walk for another 15-20 minutes to reach Castlelaw Hill Fort. The walk will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Discover more about Castlelaw Hill Fort
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roslin Parish Church
4.1 km
Explore the historic Roslin Parish Church, a serene haven of spirituality and stunning architecture in the heart of Roslin village.
Roslin Memorial
4.3 km
A serene memorial honoring the 1303 Battle of Roslin, a pivotal Scottish victory during the Wars of Independence.
The Caiy Stane
4.7 km
A 2.7-meter prehistoric stone marking ancient mysteries on Edinburgh's southern edge.
Maiden Castle
5.8 km
Explore the subtle earthworks and ancient mysteries of Maiden Castle, a prehistoric fortification nestled in the scenic Midlothian landscape.
Melville Castle Hotel
8.7 km
Experience regal Scottish luxury and historic charm at Melville Castle Hotel, a serene castle retreat near Edinburgh with elegant rooms and fine dining.
Historic Environment Scotland
9.0 km
Victorian hospital turned heritage headquarters, where Scotland's architectural legacy is preserved and celebrated.
Travelodge Edinburgh Park
9.1 km
Modern, clean, and comfortable hotel in Edinburgh Park with great transport links, free parking, and family-friendly amenities.
Meadows Compass
9.3 km
A serene landmark at the heart of Edinburgh’s beloved green space, blending history, community, and nature.
Dalhousie Castle Hotel And Spa
9.4 km
Experience medieval grandeur and modern luxury at Dalhousie Castle Hotel and Spa, nestled in scenic Scottish parkland near Edinburgh.
George Square
9.5 km
Explore George Square: A picturesque and historical square in Edinburgh, surrounded by stunning architecture and vibrant cultural events.
The University of Edinburgh
9.6 km
Discover centuries of academic excellence and iconic neoclassical architecture at the University of Edinburgh’s historic Old College.
Innocent Railway Tunnel
9.6 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest railway tunnel, a historic horse-drawn coal route transformed into a vibrant urban walking and cycling path in Edinburgh.
Flodden Wall
9.6 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.
The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle
9.7 km
Discover stunning views of Edinburgh Castle at The Vennel Viewpoint, a must-visit scenic spot that showcases the beauty of Scotland's capital.
McEwan Hall, The University of Edinburgh
9.7 km
Edinburgh's Renaissance masterpiece: where academic tradition meets architectural brilliance since 1897.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Flotterstone Inn
1.0 km
Historic coaching inn turned cozy pub and restaurant, nestled at the gateway to Edinburgh’s Pentland Hills with hearty fare and scenic charm.
Glencorse House
1.7 km
Exclusive historic wedding venue with a romantic 17th-century kirk and stunning natural grounds in the Pentland Hills near Penicuik.
Bonaly Country Park
4.0 km
Explore peaceful woodland trails, reservoir walks, and panoramic city views in Bonaly Country Park, a natural gem on Edinburgh’s doorstep.
Roslin Gunpowder Factory
4.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Scotland’s largest historic gunpowder mill nestled in the serene Roslin Glen Country Park.
Penicuik Estate
4.1 km
Historic Scottish estate blending Palladian grandeur, designed landscapes, and modern regenerative hospitality near Edinburgh.
Dryden Tower
4.1 km
Discover the historical allure of Dryden Tower in Roslin, Scotland - a perfect blend of architecture, nature, and heritage.
Roslin Glen Country Park
4.4 km
Explore ancient woodlands, riverside trails, and historic ruins in the tranquil Roslin Glen Country Park near Edinburgh.
Rosslyn Chapel
4.6 km
Discover the intricate stone carvings and timeless mysteries of Rosslyn Chapel, a medieval gem just outside Edinburgh.
Rosslyn Castle
4.7 km
Explore the majestic Rosslyn Castle, a historical landmark rich in Scottish heritage, surrounded by stunning landscapes and captivating legends.
Mavisbank House
6.0 km
Discover Scotland’s first Palladian villa, a historic estate blending Enlightenment ideals, architectural innovation, and pioneering mental health care.
Craiglockhart Castle
6.4 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Craiglockhart Castle, a 15th-century tower house nestled within Edinburgh Napier University’s scenic campus.
Pentland Hills Regional Park H.Q.
6.7 km
Explore 10,000 hectares of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure just minutes from Edinburgh’s city centre.
Malleny Garden
7.0 km
Discover serene beauty and centuries-old yews in Malleny Garden’s historic walled oasis near Edinburgh.
Blackford Hill
7.2 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
7.3 km
A tranquil 149-acre nature reserve in Edinburgh with woodland trails, historic Hermitage House, and panoramic views from Blackford Hill.
Essential places to dine
The Steading
3.7 km
A cozy Edinburgh pub near Hillend ski slope serving hearty British classics and gluten-free options in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Royal Hotel Bar & Restaurant
4.0 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes and vibrant atmosphere at the Royal Hotel Bar & Restaurant in Penicuik.
The Radhuni
5.6 km
Experience authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in a stylish, spacious setting with exceptional service at The Radhuni in Loanhead.
The Paper Mill
7.7 km
Historic riverside bar and brasserie in Lasswade offering all-day dining, Scottish craft beers, and live music in a charming setting.
Luci's Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
7.7 km
Modern Italian dining and craft cocktails beside the River North Esk in charming Lasswade.
Gigi's Italian Restaurant
8.4 km
Authentic Italian dining in Bonnyrigg with a warm family atmosphere, classic pizzas, pastas, and seafood served daily from noon to midnight.
The Rabbit Hole
8.8 km
Cozy British dining with modern French flair in Edinburgh’s welcoming Marchmont neighborhood.
Wee Greek Kitchen
9.0 km
Experience authentic Greek hospitality and flavors in a cozy Edinburgh neighborhood with live music and generous portions.
First Coast Restaurant
9.1 km
Modern Scottish cuisine in a relaxed West End neighbourhood setting, celebrating local ingredients and attentive hospitality.
Locanda de Gusti
9.1 km
Authentic Neapolitan seafood and Italian flavours served in a cozy, homely setting on Edinburgh’s Dalry Road.
The Melville Inn
9.3 km
A charming gastropub and inn in Lasswade offering hearty British cuisine, warm hospitality, and cozy accommodations amid scenic Melville Nurseries.
Elginhaugh Farm - Dining & Carvery
9.3 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub on Edinburgh’s outskirts, famed for its hearty carvery and welcoming atmosphere.
The Dungeon Restaurant
9.4 km
A candlelit fine-dining experience in the atmospheric vaults beneath Dalhousie Castle, blending Scottish ingredients with French technique in a storybook setting.
Beijing Banquet
9.4 km
A welcoming Chinese buffet in Edinburgh’s Danderhall, perfect for families and groups craving fresh, flavourful Asian dishes in a relaxed setting.
Söderberg The Meadows
9.4 km
Authentic Scandinavian bakery and café near Edinburgh University, famed for cardamom buns, sourdough breads, and a cozy fika atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Home Bargains
5.2 km
Budget-friendly Home Bargains in Loanhead offering great value on household essentials and more in a convenient retail park setting.
Everyone's Designs
8.2 km
Discover unique, eco-friendly gifts and artistic cards at Everyone's Designs, Edinburgh’s creative heart on Bruntsfield Place.
Nice Stuff
8.4 km
Discover unique, affordable gifts and stylish homewares in Edinburgh’s charming Bruntsfield neighborhood.
Emporium 62
9.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich heritage through unique antiques and collectibles at Emporium 62, a charming treasure trove on Home Street.
Freak Unique
9.1 km
Edinburgh's eclectic fashion sanctuary for those who dare to dress differently.
Edinburgh Art Shop
9.3 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
9.4 km
Affordable shopping in Edinburgh’s city centre with a vast range of quality products all priced to save you money.
Tesco Superstore
9.5 km
Discover the Tesco Superstore in Dalkeith for a diverse range of groceries, fresh produce, and everyday essentials in a clean, welcoming environment.
Carnivàle Vintage
9.5 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Herman Brown
9.5 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
Godiva
9.7 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
8 Yards Ltd
9.7 km
Discover bespoke Scottish menswear and over 5,000 clan tartans at 8 Yards Ltd, Dalkeith’s premier kilt and traditional clothing boutique.
Armstrongs Vintage
9.8 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
Mr Wood's Fossils
9.8 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Portcullis Gift Shop
9.9 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Riccarton Inn
6.1 km
Traditional Scottish pub and cozy inn offering real ales, homecooked food, and convenient lodging near Edinburgh in Currie.
The Hermitage Bar
7.1 km
A welcoming gastropub in Edinburgh’s Morningside offering classic British comfort food, local brews, and a vibrant neighborhood atmosphere.
Laird & Dog Inn
7.7 km
A charming traditional inn in Lasswade offering hearty Scottish fare, friendly service, and a cozy base near Edinburgh.
The Royal Oak
7.9 km
A cozy and affordable British pub in Bonnyrigg, offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a warm local atmosphere.
The Argyle and Cellar Bar
8.9 km
A vibrant Edinburgh pub with cozy cellar music, quality ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Argyle Place.
Salisbury Arms Edinburgh
9.2 km
A stylish gastropub blending traditional charm with fresh British fare and vibrant local atmosphere in Edinburgh’s southside.
The Raging Bull
9.4 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.
The Jolly Botanist
9.4 km
A Victorian-style gin bar in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for its botanical cocktails, hearty Scottish fare, and warm, quirky atmosphere.
SKYbar Edinburgh
9.5 km
Experience Edinburgh’s skyline with exquisite cocktails and stunning castle views at SKYbar, the city’s premier rooftop destination.
Innis & Gunn Edinburgh City Centre Brewery Taproom
9.6 km
A vibrant craft beer haven in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for Scottish steak frites and an extensive rotating tap selection.
56 North
9.6 km
Scotland’s first dedicated gin bar and distillery offering award-winning spirits, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious food in Edinburgh’s Newington.
Dragonfly
9.6 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
Old Colliery
9.6 km
Friendly family pub near Edinburgh with hearty food, dog-friendly perks, and a proud mining heritage in a welcoming community setting.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
9.6 km
Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
9.6 km
Experience Edinburgh’s craft beer culture in a vibrant, historic setting with legendary wings, 28 taps, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Club Tropicana
9.8 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
9.9 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
The Bongo Club
9.9 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
9.9 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Liquid Room
9.9 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Sneaky Pete's
9.9 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Mash House
10.0 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
10.0 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
10.1 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
10.2 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
10.2 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
10.2 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
El Barrio Latino
10.4 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
10.4 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Shanghai Nightclub
10.4 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
