Reader Recommends: Best winter walks in Edinburgh and the Lothians

If you're looking for a good walking route to try out in or around Edinburgh this winter, then this week's Reader Recommends is definitely for you.

The grounds of Gosford Estate in Longniddry. Pic: Marilyn Wilson

Experiencing the nippy conditions is well worth it for the cracking views of a wintry Edinburgh and its surrounding regions.

Grounds surrounding Newbattle Abbey. Pic: Will Deakin

There's no shortage of scenery in and around the capital, but we've asked Evening News readers to point us in the right direction.

Here are their suggestions;

Gosford Estate, Longniddry

Gosford Estate in East Lothian is a 2.5-mile walk around parkland which is historically interesting, and a real escape from the modern world.

Liberton Dams and Observatory. Pic: Irene Winton

As well as the trees and open spaces there are 18th-century ponds and associated small buildings to enjoy before the imposing grandeur of the Robert Adam-designed Gosford House. Anyone is welcome here and can enjoy a stroll that is slightly different than on the nearby beaches.

Evening News reader Marilyn Wilson said: "Gosford Estate in Longniddry is beautiful."

Harlaw and Threipmuir Reservoirs

One of the easier walks in the Pentlands, the short circular route covering the Harlaw and Thriepmuir Reservoirs takes around one hour to complete. The path travels through woodland to reach the reservoirs, offering a sheltered winter walk, with some of the Pentland peaks visible in the more open areas by the water.

The walk was the most popular pick by Evening News readers. Ser Glynn explained why: "Harlaw at first light when there is low cloud and chilled air."

Another reader, Cairnsy Snr, said they were also a fan of this route.

Grounds of Newbattle Abbey

Reader Will Deakin chose this peaceful and scenic walk in Dalkeith as his favourite, stating that a big draw of the area is the abundance of wildlife.

Liberton Dams and Observatory

Reader Irene Winton picked this walk out as her favourites. The path runs alongside the Braid burn from Braid Road entrance to Liberton Dams and is popular with local residents, especially dog walkers.

Water of Leith

For a nice wintry walk in the city try the Water of Leith, a river which carves through the city from its source in the Pentland Hills to its mouth at the River Forth. There are several routes which can be taken along the body of water, including from the Modern art gallery to Roseburn, and from picturesque Dean Village to Leith – each of them is as intriguing as the next.

Other nice walks

Roslin Glen in Midlothian is another walking treat which allows you to explore the extraordinary ruins of of Rosslyn Castle and its picturesque surrounding area.

Arthur's Seat in the heart of the capital is another obvious pick, as is Cramond Island to the north-west of the city.