THE ROCKS: The Pentland Hills are made of lava and ash layers formed during surface volcanic activity around 410 million years ago. This walk takes us “down” from the younger sedimentary rocks at the Water of Leith, back in time to sample the contrasting volcanic rocks of the Pentlands at Warklaw and Torduff hills.

THE WALK: From the Water of Leith we’ll follow the Poet’s Glen on to the lower slopes of the Pentlands, with increasingly good views as we cross over Warklaw Hill and then Torduff, before circling back to our start point via the dam at Torduff Reservoir. Distance 7km. This is classified as an Easy Walk, on good paths with steps and some climbing. It may be wet, windy or cold. Come equipped with strong footwear and waterproof clothing.

MEETING POINT & ROUTE: Junction of Muir Wood Road and Lanark Road West, Currie (this is close to the start of Blinkbonny Road from Currie to Blinkbonny, and 300m east of the Sainsbury’s Petrol Station on Lanark Road West).
Grid reference: NT192682 | Nearest Postcode: EH14 5EP | What3Words: newly.shunts.asset | Route Map.

CORONAVIRUS – IMPORTANT INFORMATION: During Geowalks activities, the aim is to keep everyone safe and to minimise the risk of transmission of Coronavirus. Everyone has a duty to minimise the risk to themselves and others. All participants must read this document “Geowalks: Coronavirus Pandemic 2020-2021: Information for participants on short walks (version 2.0 15Mar21)” and you can only attend a Geowalks activity if you have read and agree to follow the procedures outline, and accept the risks involved.

Most importantly, do not attend if you are experiencing any symptoms of Coronavirus, or if you, or anyone you have been in close contact with, has tested positive for Covid-19 in the last 14 days. The main symptoms are a new continuous cough, fever or loss of, or change in, sense of smell or taste.