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Explore Edinburgh on foot

tourists exploring Edinburgh's historic street, The Royal Mile

Edinburgh is easy to explore on foot

looking down a path lined by trees on both sides and the green grass of Inverleith Park

Inverleith Park © Kenny Lam

Edinburgh is a compact city so it's easy to get around on foot. The city is built on several hills, so expect a few gradients but most of them are easily tackled by anyone of average fitness, and the views on offer are worth the effort!

If you fancy a quiet stroll away from the traffic, the city has a number of peaceful parks you may like to explore.

In the city centre itself, you'll find Princes Street Gardens where you can relax with an ice cream or cup of coffee as you take in one of the best views of the Castle there is.

Beyond the city centre, The Meadows and Inverleith Park are well worth exploring while not far from the Royal Mile, Holyrood Park offers great views of the impressive Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano that's a well-known Edinburgh landmark and is worth climbing if you're feeling energetic (but remember to wear sensible walking shoes if you decide to do this!).

For a relaxing walk and the chance to glimpse some local wildlife, take a stroll along the Union Canal or Water of Leith walk ways.

Outside the city itself, you'll find some great countryside and country parks which are great places to take a walk. To the west of the city you'll find Almondell Country Park, Beecraigs Country Park and Polkemmet Country Park.

Head south of the city and you can explore Vogrie Country Park, Roslin Glen Country Park and the Penicuik to Dalkeith Walkway. You can find details of these and other good walks in this area by checking out the Parks and Landscape pages of the Sports and Leisure section of Midlothian Council's website.

East and South East of the city, you'll find stunning coastal walks, railway routes and the Lammermuir Hills. Find some great ideas for walks in this area at the East Lothian Council website.

Make sure and take a look at all the other country and city walks in Edinburgh and the Lothians in our walking section.