Blackford and Braid Hills

Located in Edinburgh, to the western end of the valley which runs from Comiston to Liberton, between Blackford Hill and the Braid Hills, is the Hermitage of Braid. This 130 acres of mixed habitat is a haven for wildlife and includes woodland, grassland, scrub, freshwater and marsh. It's a country walk in the City!

The walk leaves Morningside and walks down beside the river running through the Hermitage of Braid. It passes a visitor centre, which is an old house set in the heart of the Hermitage. The sides of the 'valley' become increasingly high as the walk passes through the rich autumnal colours of the woodland to the South of Blackford Hill. The route then climbs steeply on the Howe Dean Path, to Liberton, then follows the perimeter of Braid Hills golf course, with excellent views north to Edinburgh's city centre. After a long steady climb, the highest summit of the Braid Hills is reached. There are excellent 360 degree views over Edinburgh and on to Arthur's seat and the Castle. After a sudden and steep decent, the walk finishes with a short road walk through Morningside, back to the start, passing the Braid Hills Hotel where you can stop off for a drink and see excellent sunsets.