Braid Hills, Hill chain in Edinburgh, Scotland
The Braid Hills are a connected chain of hills on the southwestern edge of Edinburgh, Scotland, covered with open grassland, walking paths, and a golf course. They rise clearly above the surrounding city, and on clear days the views reach across Edinburgh toward the Firth of Forth to the north.
The Braid Hills are part of the group of seven hills around which Edinburgh developed, and they long served as a natural boundary on the city's southern side. The golf course on their slopes was established in the late 19th century, making it one of the oldest municipal courses in Scotland.
The Braid Hills are a favorite outdoor spot for Edinburgh residents, who walk the open paths and play golf across the slopes throughout the year. In winter, families gather on the gentler hillsides to go sledging, a tradition that has been passed down through generations in the local community.
The hills are easy to reach by bus from central Edinburgh, with the main access point near the golf course on Comiston Road. Most paths are manageable for the average walker, though some sections can become slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is a good idea.
Horses from nearby stables regularly make their way along the paths of the Braid Hills, sharing the terrain with walkers and golfers in a way that feels quite natural. This mix of equestrian and everyday recreational use is rarely found in an urban green space of this size.
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