If you’ve only seen the weather forecast of Scotland’s capital, you’d never guess it’s an adventure hub. But when you dive into the outdoor activities Edinburgh offers, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a magnet for adventurers!
Explore Bright Bus Tours’ guide to thrilling things to do outside in Edinburgh.
Best Time For Outdoor Activities Around Edinburgh
Edinburgh has a temperate maritime climate. This means that while the weather is unpredictable, it is not extreme. The cliche that you’ll get four seasons in a day is often true here.
The colder winter and autumn months draw in surfers, while groups of hikers can enjoy Scotland’s summer chill in the — relatively speaking — warm seasons. There are solo and group outdoor adventures and activities year-round.
Pro Tip: There’s a saying in Scotland that there is no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes for the occasion. Don’t worry about using all your luggage space on bulky clothing. If you plan to do outdoor activities in Edinburgh, you can rent most of your gear down to your socks.
Exhilarating Edinburgh Outdoor Activities & Adventures
Discover the many outdoor things to do in Edinburgh, from conquering crags just outside the city centre to coastal activities.
Experience Edinburgh’s Peaks & Pathways
Climbing Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill is an opportunity no hiking enthusiast can pass on. These extinct volcanoes are iconic for offering numerous outdoor activities in Edinburgh for visitors of all fitness levels.
Located in Holyrood Park near the Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat is a steep, exciting climb that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the city, coastline and beyond. Calton Hill provides equally stunning vistas and iconic landmarks like the National Monument for a less action-filled adventure.
Catch Waves In & Near the City
While some believe Scotland’s best surf is in the North, its capital on the East Coast also has plenty of great waves. Belhaven Bay is one of the best places to visit just outside Edinburgh for surfing. The stunning surf spot provides consistent waves that are ideal for first-time surfers. However, they’re not too tame for those looking to challenge their skills.
A day trip to Belhaven Bay is the perfect outing for a friend group. Those who don’t want to hang ten can splinter off into other activities like beach yoga or coasteering.
Alternatively, the Lost Shore Surf Resort ensures you’ll find the perfect wave every time. This attraction is located a mere 25 minutes from Edinburgh’s city centre. For surfers salty about flat ocean waters, this innovative surf resort offers a guaranteed swell in a controlled setting.
Flock to Duddingston Loch for Top-Tier Birding
A rare freshwater loch in Edinburgh, Duddingston Loch is a wetlands wonderland of avian activity and easy hiking trails. The lake is situated at the foot of Arthur’s Seat and is home to herons, swans, ducks and the occasional kingfisher.
Autumn is the best time for birding and staking out the water’s edge. Migratory birds swoop in for a visit during this period as they head south. Complete the experience with a pint or bite to eat at one of Scotland’s oldest pubs, The Sheep Heid Inn.
With gentle prompting, you might hear about Duddingston Loch folklore at the pub. Tales of mythical loch creatures and lights floating above the waters add to the mystical allure of the area.
Glide Through Edinburgh’s Waterways
Experience Edinburgh from its shimmering waterways. The Scottish capital offers spectacular water adventures for everyone from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts.
Cut through gentle waves while sea kayaking from the golden sands of Portobello Beach or the historic Newhaven Harbor. Start your day with a unique social experience, paddling in unison with companions aboard a voyageur canoe down the Union Canal.
For something a bit trendier, try stand-up paddleboarding or SUPing. There are readily available lessons and equipment at canal spots and seaside locations that require upfront booking.
Water Safety Scotland (WSS) ensures your aquatic journey remains as safe as it is memorable with its safety guidelines. Remember their key advice: Share the adventure with pals and carry spare paddles to explore Edinburgh’s liquid landscape uninterrupted.
Hop on Bright Bus Tours for a scenic adventure to the top outdoor attractions in Edinburgh. Book our Two-Day, Two-Tour experience to have access to both of our tours for 48 hours.
Bright Bus Tours: Open-Top Travel to Outdoor Fun
Bright Bus Tours offers a vast urban adventure with our City Tour and extends your exploration to Leith and the Royal Yacht Britannia on our Britannia Tour. We also provide convenient transfers with our Airport Express service.
Visit Scotland awarded our friendly hop-on hop-off service in Edinburgh four stars for our exceptional customer service. When you choose Bright Bus, you enjoy:
- An exciting alternative to public transport
- Ample space to store your bicycle or adventure equipment between stops
- Private tour options
- The cheapest, fastest, brightest way to and from Edinburgh Airport
- Dog-friendly service
- 100% wheelchair-accessible buses
Explore outdoor activities around Edinburgh by Bright Bus. Book your City Tour day pass online for just £16.