Corstorphine Hill & Tower Edinburgh
Corstorphine Hill offers a serene nature escape with ancient woodlands and breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh, topped by an iconic tower.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tower access & city views
Corstorphine Hill & Tower Edinburgh
Best Time
Tower access & city views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Corstorphine Hill offers a serene nature escape with ancient woodlands and breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh, topped by an iconic tower.
"Climb the tower for unique views of Edinburgh; a peaceful woodland walk with a rewarding summit."
Check Tower Opening Times
The tower is volunteer-run & only open Sundays 2-4 PM. Confirm before you go! :ticket:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be uneven and steep. Good footwear is a must for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Corstorphine Hill Tower
Summit of Corstorphine Hill
Climb this imposing tower for unparalleled panoramic views of Edinburgh and beyond.

Woodland Trails
Throughout Corstorphine Hill Nature Reserve
Wander through serene ancient woodlands, enjoying birdsong and the chance to spot wildlife.

Rest & Be Thankful Viewpoint
Summit of Corstorphine Hill
A popular spot with a bench offering breathtaking vistas of the city skyline.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Tower Visit
Footwear for the Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tower Opening Times
The tower is volunteer-run & only open Sundays 2-4 PM. Confirm before you go! :ticket:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be uneven and steep. Good footwear is a must for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Spot Zoo Animals
You might glimpse zebras from the Edinburgh Zoo's edge! :zebra:
Bring Cash for Donations
Donations are welcomed by the tower volunteers to help with upkeep. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tower Opening Times
The tower is volunteer-run & only open Sundays 2-4 PM. Confirm before you go! :ticket:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paths can be uneven and steep. Good footwear is a must for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Spot Zoo Animals
You might glimpse zebras from the Edinburgh Zoo's edge! :zebra:
Bring Cash for Donations
Donations are welcomed by the tower volunteers to help with upkeep. :moneybag:
Enjoy the City Vistas
The views of Edinburgh Castle and the city are stunning from the top. :cityscape:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Corstorphine Hill for its stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh and its peaceful woodland trails, offering a great escape from the city. The limited access to the tower is a common point of contention, though its unique vistas are highly valued when accessible.
"A nature walk with great views of Edinburgh castle, Calton Hill and the city center. Amazing old majestic trees are your companion on your way to see the monument to one of the world's greatest writer and historical Scottish person, Sir Walter Scott 1771-1831."
Peter Hunter
"Nice walk through the woods at Corstorphine Hill to the tower. You can only view it, the door was locked. Lots of birdsong and lots of butterflies. The walked garden us also worth a visit."
Jean Dalby
"Great views from the top of the Tower. Open 1400-1600 on Sundays. Opened by volunteers so check it is open before you come. Cash donations welcomed."
Paul Skrgatic
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Corstorphine Hill by bus from Edinburgh city centre. Several Lothian Buses routes stop near the hill, making it accessible for a day trip. Some visitors mention taking the tram to Corstorphine and then walking.
Yes, there are parking facilities available at Corstorphine Hill, which is convenient if you're traveling by car. This allows for easy access to the nature reserve and the tower.
While it's a bit of a walk from the city centre, it's definitely doable for keen walkers. Many consider it part of the 'Seven Hills of Edinburgh' challenge, which involves traversing various hills across the city.
Access points are available from various sides of the hill. The main car park provides a good starting point for exploring the woodland paths and heading towards the tower.
Absolutely! Corstorphine Hill is well-served by public transport, with numerous bus routes from Edinburgh city centre stopping nearby. This makes it an easy destination for those without a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Corstorphine Hill Nature Reserve is a public space and generally free to enter. However, the tower itself has specific opening times and may welcome cash donations from visitors.
The nature reserve is open year-round during daylight hours. The Corstorphine Hill Tower, however, has limited access, typically only on Sundays between 2 PM and 4 PM, and this can vary.
While there isn't a fixed entrance fee for the tower, it's operated by volunteers and cash donations are welcomed to support its upkeep and maintenance.
No, the tower has very specific opening hours, usually limited to Sunday afternoons. It's crucial to check locally or with volunteer groups before planning your visit to avoid disappointment.
There are no booking requirements for accessing the hill and its trails. For the tower, it's best to arrive during its stated opening hours, as it's first-come, first-served and volunteer-dependent.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Corstorphine Hill offers a nature reserve with ancient woodlands, a prominent tower, and stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh, including the castle and city skyline. You might also spot animals from the nearby zoo.
The paths can be uneven and steep in places, with some sections not being paved. Proper footwear is highly recommended for a comfortable and safe walking experience.
Yes, you can climb the Corstorphine Hill Tower, but access is limited to specific times (usually Sunday afternoons) and it's operated by volunteers. The views from the top are considered unique and worth the effort.
Yes, the woodlands are home to various birds, and you might even catch a glimpse of zebras from the adjacent Edinburgh Zoo. The diverse flora also attracts butterflies.
Expect breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh, including iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, and the Forth bridges. The 'Rest & Be Thankful' viewpoint is particularly popular.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of the tower offers incredible panoramic shots of Edinburgh. The 'Rest & Be Thankful' viewpoint is also a prime spot for cityscapes, especially during golden hour.
Absolutely! The elevated position provides sweeping views of the city, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding countryside, making it ideal for landscape photographers.
Early mornings or late afternoons (golden hours) offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Winter can also provide dramatic 'cloud inversion' scenes.
While opportunities might be limited, you can try photographing birds within the woodland. If you're lucky, you might get a distant shot of zebras from the zoo's edge.
Generally, photography is permitted for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and respect any signage or specific rules, especially around the tower.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the tower climb might be challenging for very young children, the surrounding nature reserve provides ample space for running around and enjoying the outdoors. It's a wonderful, accessible option for a family day out that combines nature, a bit of adventure, and the excitement of potential animal sightings.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Fitness Enthusiasts
The reward for your efforts is not just the physical exertion but also the spectacular panoramic views from the summit and the tower. The varied terrain ensures an engaging experience, and the opportunity to explore the nature reserve adds an element of discovery to your fitness routine.
📸 Photographers
Beyond the grand vistas, the ancient woodlands offer opportunities for nature photography, with opportunities to capture light filtering through the trees and the textures of the forest floor. Keep an eye out for wildlife, though sightings might be distant.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Corstorphine Hill Tower: A Beacon of Views
Access to the tower is quite restricted, typically limited to Sunday afternoons and operated by dedicated volunteers. This means it's essential to check opening times before your visit. The experience of climbing the tower, though brief, is highly rewarding, offering a perspective of the city that few other vantage points can match. Be prepared for a potential cash donation to support the volunteers who maintain this special place.
Many visitors describe the views as 'gothic' and 'unique,' highlighting the tower's historical significance and its strategic position overlooking the capital. It's a must-do for anyone seeking an elevated perspective of Edinburgh's sprawling beauty.
Exploring the Woodland Trails
The paths can vary in condition, with some being steep and unpaved, so wearing appropriate footwear is strongly advised. This makes it a good spot for a moderate workout while immersing yourself in nature. The reserve is also adjacent to the Edinburgh Zoo, and on certain paths, you might catch a glimpse of animals like zebras from the zoo's perimeter.
Beyond the main trails, there are also mentions of a 'walked garden' which could be an additional point of interest for visitors. The combination of natural beauty, potential wildlife sightings, and the physical challenge makes Corstorphine Hill a well-rounded destination for nature lovers and active explorers.
The 'Seven Hills of Edinburgh' Challenge
Completing the Seven Hills challenge means you'll encounter a range of terrains and views, with Corstorphine Hill often serving as a starting point or a significant leg of the journey. It's a great way to get a substantial amount of exercise while discovering different facets of the city.
Many who undertake this challenge find Corstorphine Hill to be a rewarding climb, offering both natural beauty and significant city vistas. It's a testament to the hill's importance in the city's landscape and its appeal to those seeking adventure and exploration within Edinburgh.
Social
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