5 running routes for beginners in Edinburgh

Are you new to running and looking for inspiration? Try one of these scenic and flat city running routes.

New to running? Try one of these capital city routes.(Photo: Shutterstock)

Inverleith figure of eight

With a wonderful panoramic view of the city and a high concentration of greenery Inverleith Park isn't short of distraction for amateur runners. Split into four near equal parts by a combination of concrete path and muddy trail, we recommend performing a figure of eight circuit of the leafy location.

Distance: 2 miles

Map: mapometer.com

Meadows circuit

On a summers evening the Meadows is buzzing with activity as locals and students engage in all manner of activities from Aussie-rules football to Quidditch. Take in all the action and get active yourself by performing a circuit of the Meadows. Views of Arthur's Seat are superb when running from west to east.

Distance: 1.5 miles

Map: mapometer.com

Cramond seafront jog

Every Saturday morning hundreds of runners gather on the paved promenade above Cramond beach and take part in the 5k Edinburgh ParkRun. Beginners can build up to the 5k distance with this shorter route which takes you along the pleasant banks of the River Almond and back through charming Cramond Village.

Distance: 2.3 miles

Map: mapometer.com

Leith Links circuit

Verdant and popular with dog walkers, this pleasant patch of flat parkland to the northeast of the city is an excellent training ground for Leith-based runners. Once you feel comfortable with performing a circuit of the area, consider extending your run along Seafield and Portobello Promenade.

Distance: 1.5 miles

Map: mapometer.com

Victoria Park to Leith Waterfront

This route offers a great variation of scenery, taking runners from lush Victoria Park to the breezy Leith waterfront. Start in Victoria Park and join the cycle path beyond Connaught Place. Follow the path until you reach Commercial Street where runners should turn left, through cobbled Commercial Quay. Finish by joining the cycle path at the junction between Lindasy Road and the A901 and following it to Victoria Park.

Distance: 2.6 miles

Map: mapometer.com