The Pentland Round is a challenging hillwalking route in the Pentland Hills, a picturesque range located just south of Edinburgh. This iconic challenge is a circuit that aims to cover all the major summits in the Pentlands in a single outing. It is popular with hillwalkers, runners, and endurance enthusiasts, offering both a physical test and the reward of stunning panoramic views.

Key Features:

• Distance and Elevation: The Pentland Round typically spans approximately 25km with around 2,000m (6,500ft) of ascent. The undulating terrain provides a mix of steep climbs, rolling hills, and occasional flatter sections.
• Major Peaks: The route often includes prominent peaks such as Scald Law (the highest at 579m), Carnethy Hill, Turnhouse Hill, West Kip, East Kip, and Allermuir Hill. These summits offer expansive views over Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and beyond.
• Terrain: The route combines grassy ridges, heather moorland, and some rocky paths. It demands good navigation skills, particularly in poor weather, as parts of the area can feel remote despite its proximity to the city.
• Time and Difficulty: Completing the Pentland Round in a single day is considered an impressive feat, taking between 8-10 hours for most walkers. It is a test of stamina, navigation, and hillwalking skills, making it ideal for active hillwalkers or trail runners.

Why It’s Worth Doing:

• Scenic Beauty: The Pentland Hills are renowned for their stunning scenery, offering walkers uninterrupted views of rolling hills, the city of Edinburgh, and the surrounding countryside.
• Accessibility: The Pentlands are easily accessible from Edinburgh, making this a fantastic challenge for locals and visitors alike.
• Sense of Achievement: Completing the Pentland Round in one go is a significant accomplishment, offering a sense of fulfilment and connection to Scotland’s beautiful landscapes.

Whether tackled in parts or all at once, the Pentland Round is a rewarding experience for those seeking to test their endurance while immersing themselves in Scotland’s natural beauty.