Glencorse Reservoir Walk

Glencorse Reservoir Walk offers families an accessible Scottish countryside adventure with gentle, well-maintained trails perfect for little legs. The peaceful reservoir setting provides excellent opportunities for children to spot waterfowl, practice nature photography, and enjoy picnics with stunning Highland views, all without the challenging terrain of more demanding Scottish walks.

• ✓Easy, family-friendly walking paths suitable for strollers and young children
• ✓Excellent bird watching opportunities including herons, ducks, and seasonal waterfowl
• ✓Peaceful picnic spots with scenic reservoir and hillside views
• ✓Safe, flat terrain perfect for children learning to ride bikes or scooters
• ✓Beautiful Scottish countryside just 30 minutes from Edinburgh city center

1. 1.Pack waterproof jackets and extra layers even in summer, as Scottish weather can change quickly and it's often cooler and windier by the water.
2. 2.Bring binoculars for bird spotting. Kids love watching for herons, ducks, and if lucky, ospreys during spring and summer months.
3. 3.The car park at Glencorse fills up on sunny weekends, so arrive before 10am or visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
4. 4.Download offline maps before you go, as mobile signal can be patchy in this rural area outside Edinburgh.
5. 5.Pack a picnic as there are lovely spots along the shore, but remember to carry all rubbish out as bins are limited.

Visit on weekday mornings or early weekend mornings (before 10am) for peaceful trails and better wildlife spotting. Spring and early summer (April to June) offer the best weather balance with longer daylight hours and active birdlife, though the area is beautiful year-round.

Parking is free at the reservoir car park. There are no facilities, cafes, or restrooms on site, so come prepared. The main path is suitable for all-terrain strollers, though some sections can be muddy after rain.

Accessible year-round, though paths can be muddy during Scotland's wet winter months (November to February). Spring and summer offer the best conditions and most active wildlife. Daylight hours are very short in winter (dark by 4pm in December), so plan accordingly. Midges can be bothersome in late summer (July to August), so bring insect repellent.

The town of Penicuik (5 minutes drive) has family-friendly options including cafes and takeaways. For a more substantial meal, head to The Flotterstone Inn (10 minutes away), a traditional Scottish pub with a children's menu and outdoor seating, popular with walkers and families.