Beecraigs Hill

The walk up Beecraigs Hill near Newbridge isn't long, but it feels properly rewarding once you've crested the top. You're looking out across the Lowlands with Edinburgh's skyline distant to the east - on a clear day it's genuinely impressive, though I'd not bank on that in Scotland. The hill itself is straightforward moorland with decent paths, and from the summit you can pick out the Pentland Hills and beyond. Allow about an hour return trip, less if you're quick on your feet.

It suits walkers after a gentle outing rather than anything technical. Families can manage it, though younger kids might need breaks on the way up - the gradient's not steep but it's relentless in patches. The real value here is isolation. You won't find crowds, which is increasingly rare near Edinburgh. There's something refreshing about that.

Stay at Linwater Caravan Park and you're well-positioned for a day exploring this corner of the Lowlands. The moorland landscape is classic central Scotland - rolling and open without being dramatic. Go for it if you're after straightforward hillwalking with a view rather than a destination landmark. The weather will make or break your experience here, so pick a dry day if you can manage it. Otherwise you're just trudging through heather looking at cloud. Free to access, and that's about right for what it is.