Allermuir and Caerketton from Hillend
Two Pentland tops on the edge of Edinburgh, with the city and the Forth spread out below.
- Distance
- 4.5 km
- Ascent
- 310 m
- Time
- 1.5–2 h
- Grade
- Moderate
- Route
- Circular
- High point
- 493 m
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Route mapped on from OpenStreetMap paths, with heights from EU-DEM terrain data; not yet checked on the ground by TRXO. Added to TRXO on . For planning only: always navigate with an up-to-date map such as OS Explorer or Harvey. How we make our routes.
About this walk
Allermuir and Caerketton from Hillend is a moderate 4.5 km circular walk with 310 m of ascent, taking 1.5 to 2 hours. It starts at Hillend (grid reference NT 242 665). The start can be reached by public transport.
The northern Pentlands rise straight from Edinburgh's southern suburbs. From the dry ski slope at Hillend, the walk climbs Caerketton Hill, with its crags above the slope, then follows the ridge to Allermuir Hill, the better viewpoint of the two.
The view takes in the city, the Forth bridges and Fife, and on a clear day the Highlands. It's a short, steep day, and very popular.
Route
-
1
Caerketton
Climb steeply from Hillend to Caerketton Hill.
-
2
Allermuir
Follow the ridge to Allermuir Hill and drop back to Hillend.
Summits
Caerketton Hill
478 m
Allermuir Hill
493 m
Questions about this walk
- How long does Allermuir and Caerketton from Hillend take?
- Most walkers take 1.5–2 hours for the 4.5 km route, which has 310 m of ascent. That allows for short stops; give yourself longer in winter, in poor weather or with a group.
- Where does the walk start, and where can I park?
- It starts at Hillend (grid reference NT 242 665). Car park at the Midlothian Snowsports Centre.
- Can I get there by public transport?
- Buses from Edinburgh to Hillend. Check times on Traveline Scotland.
- How hard is it?
- It's graded moderate. Steep grassy paths and a good ridge path.
- Can I take my dog?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Before you go: Sheep graze here: keep dogs on a lead near livestock, especially at lambing time (March to May).
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