The twin Craiglockhart peaks rise on the south side of the city and offer excellent views. West Craiglockhart is the higher of the two and relatively easy to scale. This walk is described from the junction of Princes Street and Lothian Road although you could cut out a lot of walking by using public transport. Follow the busy thoroughfare of Lothian Road (A702) through Tollcross, Bruntsfield and on towards Morningside. Branch right on to Colinton Road and keep going. 500 yards after crossing the railway line, take a left down Lockharton Crescent and pass through a gate which leads to a large pond. An information point explains the history of this former public leisure area known as Happy Valley.
Walk alongside the water and through the woodland until a set of wooden stairs descends to Glenlockhart Road. Cross straight over and go through the small gap in the wall. A few steps allow you to join a nicely surfaced gravel path. Turn right and follow the route as it curves around the base of West Craiglockhart Hill. We soon start to climb and emerge on the edge of a golf course. A narrow and more informal trail winds upwards but it's easy enough to follow all the way to the summit. Enjoy the panorama and head back down by the reverse route. Once across Glenlockhart Road, you have the option of exploring the smaller east summit. Follow the sign for "Hill Top" as you ascend the staircase and make your way to the obvious peak.
