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
9. Blackford Hill
Blackford Hill and the Hermitage of Braid make a wonderful walk in the springtime. Stroll through the nature reserve and make the challenging, but rewarding, ascent up Blackford Hill for spectacular views across the city - perhaps even better than from Arthur's Seat. Photo: Ian Rutherford
10. North Berwick Law
Found in the seaside East Lothian town, North Berwick Law is a striking shape in the landscape for miles around. As steep as it appears, it's not too much of a struggle to clamber up and be treated to stunning views of the Firth of Forth, including the distinctive and imposing Bass Rock. When you've done you can explore the town and head to the beach. Photo: Katielee Arrowsmith / SWNS
11. Jupiter Artland
Jupiter Artland is a contemporary sculpture park about half an hour's drive from Edinburgh. The 100-acre site combines artwork with nature in a striking way, including this piece by landscape architect Charles Jeneks. Photo: Jane Barlow