Spring is here and with it (hopefully) comes warmer weather and more sunshine. Wildlife is blooming again, birds are singing, and the cherry trees are in blossom. It’s the perfect time to stretch the legs and take a peaceful stroll. Here are some of the best places to go for a spring walk in Edinburgh and beyond at this time of year.
. The Meadows
The Meadows is beautiful all year around, but there's something magical about the area in spring when the cherry trees are in bloom. It's the perfect place for a leisurely stroll and a picnic, with plenty of coffee shops and places to eat nearby. Photo: Ian Georgeson
. Princes Street Gardens
Beneath Edinburgh Castle and running parallel to famous Princes Street, Princes Street Gardens is a wonderful place to stroll in the springtime. After you've shopped or had lunch in New Town, enjoy the gardens and take in that striking view of the Ross Fountain beneath the castle. Photo: Ginny Sanderson
. Royal Botanic Garden
The Royal Botanic Garden is breathtaking in spring, when the Yoshino cherry trees are in bloom. For free entry you can explore 70 acres of this wildlife oasis with panoramic views of the Capital's skyline. Photo: John Devlin
. Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park
Holyrood Park is a sprawling green space with an ancient dormant volcano at its centre - Arthur's Seat. It's particularly beautiful in the spring when the landscape is decorated with bright yellow gorse. Scale the peak for unforgettable views of the city, or take a more leisurely stroll around the park and see the wild geese at Duddingston Loch. Photo: Getty Images
5. Craigmillar Castle
Craigmillar Castle is one of Edinburgh's hidden gems. Found south of the city, the 14th Century fortress has been a filming location for the likes of Outlander and Outlaw King. Its natural surroundings make for a stunning and tranquil walk. Photo: c
6. Glencorse Reservoir
Originally built to provide drinking water for Edinburgh, Glencorse Reservoir can be found in the Pentland Hills. Now it provides a picturesque and relatively straightforward walking route with a waymarked trail from the Flotterstone visitor centre. Photo: Frances Bethune
7. Dalkeith Country Park
Dalkeith Country Park in Midlothian has 1,000 acres of landscape to explore. There are a number of waymarked trails to choose from, from riverside strolls to bluebell woods. Photo: Visit Scotland
8. Roslin Glen
Roslin Glen Country Park contains the largest stretch of ancient woodland in Midlothian and is also home to all kinds of wildlife. The River North Esk runs through the glen, and it is near to Rosslyn Castle and Rosslyn Chapel, made famous by The Da Vinci Code book and film. Photo: SNS Group