Scotland is home to plenty of beautiful landscapes, from historical architecture and ruins to lochs, munros, forests, and waterfalls.
And in Edinburgh, for both residents and visitors, there are plenty of ways to ensure you get your steps in.
But if you're craving something other than an urban sprawl, and you've already conquered Arthur's Seat, there are many spots near the city which are just waiting to be explored.
If you're close to Edinburgh, here are 13 woodland trails spotted around the Central Belt that we recommend.
1. Roslin Glen
Roslin is a quaint village in Midlothian, situated around seven miles from Edinburgh. The woodland has been described as ‘semi-natural’ and ‘ancient’ and it is home to riverside paths, fascinating wildlife like bullfinches and the semi-ruined Rosslyn Castle.
2. Cardrona Forest
Located close to Peebles, this trail is approximately an hour from Edinburgh but well worth it. There are four paths to choose from ranging from a casual 0.3km trek to one that is almost 7km. Here, aside from a range of birds, it is also said that red squirrels roam nearby.
3. Cammo Estate
The Cammo Estate country park offers a wealth of paths weaving through the woodland that lead you to the ruins of Cammo House; the residence which Robert Louis Stevenson is said to have drawn inspiration from for the ‘House of Shaws’ in his novel ‘Kidnapped’.
4. The Hermitage of Braid
Located on Edinburgh city’s doorstep, you can drive to the starting point of this trail in a mere 12 minutes. You can also combine a stroll around the reserve with a hike up Blackford Hill which offers incredible views of the city as well as a challenging ascent.