Monday, 25 May 2009

Trip down Morningside: Visiting the Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill

Was exceedingly proud of myself today for several reasons:

1. Without the aid of a map, I found my way to Morningside - a fairly posh neighbourhood in Edinburgh which lies outside the boundaries of my city map. Furthermore, I also managed to get directions to the Hermitage of Braid, which lies even further south!

It's in times like these when I really appreciate Edinburghers. They are (with little exception) friendly to the fault, and are ever willing to help strangers on the street. Thanks to the man on Leven street who kindly asked if I needed directions (I must've looked quite lost), and to the lady at the bus stop who actually went onboard a bus to ask the driver what the quickest way to the Hermitage was! Bless her.

Also had a good experience when I digressed and found myself in Christ Church; the friendly warden informed me that the church was closed but turned on the lights in the main nave, so I could see the altar better - and it was indeed, quite a pretty church. I think he would've even let me have had a go at the pipe organ, only I vigorously assured him that I couldn't play a tune to save my life.

2. Managed to successfully reach the summit of Blackford Hill, which is located within the Hermitage itself. It was not a particularly hard climb, however I'm pleased that I reached the top anyway and all on my own two feet!

The summit of Blackford Hill...sadly, that figure off in the distance isn't me (yet. Haha)


Blackford hill is really great - the top of the hill is quite a flat, grassy plateau, save for a large-ish rocky outcrop from which you can get excellent views of Arthur's Seat, Salisbury Craigs and the general city scape. In addition to that, you can enjoy sweet views of the Hermitage itself, which is I think, the most awesome part of the deal because it's simply beautiful. Finally, the Craigmillar Park golf course is also right next to the Hermitage, and you can see the sprawling expanse of the course from the top of Blackford Hill as well.


Arthur's Seat...taken just before I ascended the summit.


View from the summit of Blackford Hill

Really stupendous. You could stay for hours at the summit taking everything in. Once you get bored, there are still plenty of wide open grassy spaces at the top of the hill where you can lounge or entertain yourself. I saw large, extended families walking their dogs at the top of the hill, before settling down for a serious game of football. I imagine you could also pull up a bit of grass and have a picnic with friends.

Best part about Blackford hill is that it's generally quiet and peaceful - not too many people come up here, and those that do are mainly young families or dog-walkers on a placid, leisurely stroll. I didn't see the camera-clickers (apart from myself haha), or scary fitness freaks who crawl the sides of Arthur's Seat.

Blackford hill is highly recommended. The easiest way to ascend it is via the side where the Royal Observatory is situated. There are some wooden, rickety steps which should help you up the first stretch. After that, it's generally quite a gentle walk up - enjoy!

3. Finding and exploring the Hermitage, period. Thanks once again to the guidebook I picked up at the Red Door gallery - it's such a petite read, but it's utterly invaluable! I would have never known about the Hermitage otherwise.


Apart from Blackford Hill, the Hermitage boasts a lovely walking trail through the woods. The pathway hugs the river closely, and if you're lucky, you'll spy dogs happily jumping into the (shallow) water, enthusiastically investigating the rocks on the river bed. On Blackford Hill itself, keep your eyes peeled for various colourful birds and even the occassional elusive brown hare! Furthermore, I thought I spied several white ponies off in the distance...but I can't be sure. You be the judge:

So in all, another great nature and walking spot discovered this week. Most pleased with myself :)

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