Harlaw Reservoir Loop

This easy waterside loop circles Harlaw Reservoir on the western edge of the Pentland Hills Regional Park, just south of Balerno and Currie on the outskirts of Edinburgh. Expect a relaxed walk of about 3 km to 3.5 km (roughly 1.9 to 2.2 miles) with virtually no climbing, making it a good choice for families, casual walkers, and anyone looking for a short outing with broad reservoir views, woodland edges, and a gentle countryside feel. Official Pentland Hills route information lists the nearby Harlaw Woodland walk at about 3.5 km / 2 miles and describes it as easy. (pentlandhills.org)

The usual starting point is the Harlaw Visitor Information Point / Harlaw Reservoir car park, EH14 7AS, beside Harlaw House on Harlaw Road. That is the clearest nearby landmark and access point for most walkers. The visitor centre area sits next to the reservoir and is one of the main gateways into this side of the Pentlands. (pentlandhills.org)

The route is generally straightforward, following clear paths around the reservoir through a mix of open shoreline, patches of woodland, and viewpoints across the water toward surrounding Pentland hills such as Black Hill, Turnhouse, and West Kip in the distance. Because the terrain is low-level and the elevation gain is close to 0 m / 0 ft, the walk feels more like a scenic circuit than a hill hike, though surfaces can still be muddy after rain and slippery in winter conditions. (pentlandhills.org)

What the walk is like

From the Harlaw side, the path eases into the loop with immediate views over the reservoir and a sense of being tucked between managed parkland and the first folds of the Pentland Hills. The shoreline sections are especially appealing in calm weather, when the water reflects the surrounding slopes and tree lines. The route is short enough that many walkers take it at a leisurely pace, stopping often for views, birdwatching, or a detour around the wildlife garden near the visitor centre. (pentlandhills.org)

The walking is uncomplicated, but it is still worth checking the route in HiiKER before setting out, especially if you plan to extend the outing toward Threipmuir Reservoir or connect with other Pentland paths. Signage in this area is generally good, and older Pentland Hills route material notes squirrel waymarkers for the Harlaw woodland circuit. (pentlandhills.org)

Although the climb is negligible, the path character can vary. Some stretches are firm and easy underfoot, while others may be soft, rooty, or damp depending on recent weather. In windy conditions, the exposed reservoir edge can feel cooler than expected, so even on a short walk it is sensible to bring a light waterproof layer.

Landmarks, wildlife, and scenery

The reservoir itself is the main landmark. Harlaw Reservoir sits at the foot of the Pentlands and gives the walk its open, spacious feel. Through breaks in the trees, there are longer views to nearby hills, and the contrast between water, moorland backdrop, and woodland fringe is what makes this route stand out despite its short length. (pentlandhills.org)

Near the start, the wildlife garden by Harlaw House adds interest, especially for families or anyone with an eye for plants, insects, and small birds. Pentland Hills information highlights this area as an accessible feature beside the centre. (pentlandhills.org)

Wildlife can include common woodland and waterside birds, with waterfowl often the easiest to spot on or near the reservoir. The surrounding mix of trees, scrub, and open water supports a good variety of smaller birds and seasonal activity. As elsewhere in the Pentlands, sheep may be present in nearby grazing areas, and dogs should be kept under close control around livestock and wildlife-sensitive spots. This is a popular walking area, so it is also worth watching for cyclists, children, and other visitors near the car park and visitor facilities. (pentlandhills.org)

Historical significance of the area

Harlaw Reservoir is part of the long history of water management around Edinburgh’s southern edge. The Pentland reservoirs were developed to serve practical needs, and Harlaw is part of that wider engineered landscape. More recent mapping and local information note that Harlaw Reservoir is no longer used for public water supply and now functions, along with nearby Threipmuir Reservoir, as part of flood prevention storage. (esoc.org.uk)

The wider Pentland Hills also have deep historical importance as a working landscape shaped by farming, estate management, and access routes between lowland communities. Today’s peaceful loop sits within a regional park of around 10,000 hectares, but the setting still reflects that older pattern of managed land, reservoirs, and hill grazing rather than untouched wilderness.