Highlight • Viewpoint
Castlelaw Hill
Hiking
5.0
(54)
You can ascend Castlelaw Hill from the eponymous hamlet next to the fort, where you’ll find parking. For other facilities, there’s a visitor centre just south along the A702. There are several trails up the hill and you can continue exploring neighbouring hills freely, seeking out the best viewpoints and marvelling at this fantastic range. On the summit of Castlelaw itself, the views south along the Pentlands are excellent. To the north, you can see the glistening Firth of Forth on either side of hills in the fore.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
December 28, 2020
Hiking
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Castlelaw Hill
4.7
(40)
174
hikers
11.0km
03:19
360m
360m
Embark on the Allermuir, Castlelaw and Capelaw Hill Loop, a moderate hiking route that guides you through the scenic Pentland Hills. You will cover 6.8 miles (11.0 km) and ascend 1168 feet (356 metres) over approximately 3 hours and 18 minutes, offering a rewarding challenge. From the summits, you can enjoy expansive views across the Pentland Hills, the Firth of Forth, and the city of Edinburgh, with the picturesque Glencorse Reservoir visible below. The trail features a mix of gentle grassy slopes and more rugged, rocky sections, especially as you climb the hills.
Before you head out, be ready for varied trail conditions, which might include muddy and wet patches, along with loose rock, particularly on Castlelaw Hill. A section of Castlelaw Hill is part of a military firing range, so always look for red flags indicating active training before proceeding. For your convenience, the Flotterstone Visitor Centre & Café is nearby, providing facilities and a place to stop before or after your hike.
This route stands out for its impressive panoramic vistas, allowing you to see Edinburgh's iconic landmarks from a unique perspective on Allermuir Hill. The journey through the Pentland Hills offers a chance to experience diverse landscapes and significant elevation changes within a relatively short distance. It is a popular choice for hikers seeking both a good workout and memorable views of the region's natural beauty and urban sprawl.
4.9
(19)
104
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
62
hikers
27.9km
10:17
1,490m
1,490m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 470 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Friday 12 June
14°C
9°C
-- %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: -- km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December