Corstorphine Hill & Tower, Edinburgh - Calton Hill, Edinburgh, Scotland
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Corstorphine Hill & Tower Edinburgh

4.6
·285 reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunday afternoons

Tower access & city views

CrowdMedium
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Corstorphine Hill & Tower, Edinburgh - Calton Hill, Edinburgh, Scotland

Corstorphine Hill & Tower Edinburgh

Best Time

Sunday afternoons

Tower access & city views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

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.

4.6
(285 reviews)

"Climb the tower for unique views of Edinburgh; a peaceful woodland walk with a rewarding summit."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Corstorphine Hill Tower

Corstorphine Hill Tower

Summit of Corstorphine Hill

Climb this imposing tower for unparalleled panoramic views of Edinburgh and beyond.

Woodland Trails

Woodland Trails

Throughout Corstorphine Hill Nature Reserve

Wander through serene ancient woodlands, enjoying birdsong and the chance to spot wildlife.

Rest & Be Thankful Viewpoint

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

The Corstorphine Hill Tower offers unique city views but has limited access. It's typically open only on Sundays from 2-4 PM and operated by volunteers. Always check ahead to avoid disappointment, and be prepared for potential cash donations.

Footwear for the Terrain

While Corstorphine Hill is a fantastic nature escape, the paths aren't always well-maintained. Many visitors recommend wearing proper footwear, especially if you plan to tackle steeper sections or explore after rain, to ensure a comfortable and safe walk.

Best Times

When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Tower access & city views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful woodland escape
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

7 Hills of Edinburgh! Arthur Seat - Blackford Hill - Buckstone Snab (The Braids) - Easter Craiglockhart Hill - Corstorphine Hill - Castle Rock - Calton Hill 30km walk around Edinburghs 7 highest points. #edinburgh #walk #7hillsofedinburgh #arthurseat #blackfordhill #buckstonesnab #thebraids #braidhille #eastercraiglockharthill #craiglockhart #corstorphinehill #castlerock #caltonhill #edinburghcas...
@scottish..adventures
656 likes • 33.6K views

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:

Embracing the sun & into the nature we go ❤️ The beautiful location is Corstorphine Hill nature reserve which is a trail to lost yourself into the dense forest, away from the crowd, calm and peaceful. It offers some magical views of the Forth bridges and Edinburgh Airport and Calton Hill, Edinburgh Castle, and Abbey as well. There is a World War 2 Nuclear bunker as well and Corstorphine hill towe...
varungoesbeyond
0 likes • 63.3K views
Seven Hills of Edinburgh ⛰️⛰️🏔️🗻🌋🌋⛰️ We went up: - Corstorphine Hill - Craiglochart Hill - Braid Hill - Blackford Hill - Arthur’s Seat - Castle Hill - Calton Hill Stopped at Bonnie Barista, Pomelo & ESF! #thingstodoinedinburgh #sevenhillsedinburgh
eatwithailsa
301 likes • 13.8K views

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:

🎥✨ Just minutes from Edinburgh’s bustling heart, Corstorphine Hill offers a peaceful escape. Wander through quiet woodland paths, soak in stunning views of the city skyline, and breathe in the fresh Highland air — all in a wee walk close to home. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some animals from the nearby zoo! 🌿🏞️🦓 #EdinburghWalks #CorstorphineHill #ScotlandViews #HiddenGems #NatureEsca...
_that_scott_wanderer_
0 likes • 4.4K views

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

4.6
(285 reviews)

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

Spectacular city views
Peaceful woodland walks
Unique tower perspective

What People Dislike

Limited tower access
Uneven path conditions

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram+1

📸 📸 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. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The elevated position provides sweeping views of the city, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding countryside, making it ideal for landscape photographers. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Corstorphine Hill offers a fantastic natural playground for families. The woodland trails are perfect for little legs to explore, and the chance to spot zebras from the nearby zoo is a huge hit with children. InstagramReddit The 'Rest & Be Thankful' viewpoint also provides a great spot for a family picnic with a view. Remember to bring sturdy shoes for everyone, as the paths can be uneven. Reddit

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

For those looking for a good workout, Corstorphine Hill delivers. The steep sections and unpaved paths offer a decent challenge, making it a popular choice for a fitness hike. Reddit It's also a key part of the 'Seven Hills of Edinburgh' challenge, appealing to those who enjoy multi-hill treks. TikTokInstagram

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

Corstorphine Hill is a dream for photographers, especially those interested in cityscapes and landscapes. The tower provides an unparalleled vantage point for capturing the entirety of Edinburgh, from the castle to the distant bridges. InstagramReddit The 'Rest & Be Thankful' viewpoint is another prime location for dramatic shots, particularly during sunrise or sunset. Instagram

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Corstorphine Hill Tower: A Beacon of Views

The Corstorphine Hill Tower is a prominent landmark offering some of the most unique and expansive views of Edinburgh. While the tower itself is an imposing structure, its true value lies in the panoramic vistas it provides. From its summit, you can see across the city, spotting iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, and even the Forth bridges in the distance. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Exploring the Woodland Trails

Corstorphine Hill is a designated nature reserve, boasting beautiful ancient woodlands that offer a peaceful escape from the urban bustle. The trails wind through mature trees, providing a serene environment for walking and contemplation. Visitors often mention the pleasant birdsong and the general tranquility of the forest. Instagram

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

The 'Seven Hills of Edinburgh' Challenge

Corstorphine Hill is recognized as one of the 'Seven Hills of Edinburgh', a popular challenge for hikers and locals alike. This challenge involves summiting seven distinct hills across the city, offering a comprehensive way to experience Edinburgh's varied topography and viewpoints. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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