5 of the best trail runs in and around Edinburgh

Head off the beaten track with one of these Edinburgh trail runs (Photo: Shutterstock)

Leave the pavement and cobbles of Edinburgh behind, and head off-road with one of these trail runs in and around the city.

Holyrood Park

Lets start with the most obvious destination for trail runners in the city: Holyrood Park. This inner-city playground of rugged terrain has a fantastic variety of trails which can be utilised by off road runners.

Try climbing the rocky, Radical Road, admiring views of the city to the west, before turning left at its finale, and then taking a second left towards the peak of Arthur's Seat. After roughly 500 metres follow a path right and make the final scramble to thee peak of the summit. Pat yourself on the back for your efforts before racing through the heart of Holyrood Park along a gravelly path to the east of Hunter's Bog.

Finish by returning to your start point at the beginning of the Radical Road.

Distance: 2.5 miles

Route: mapometer.comFlotterstone circuit

To the south of the city, this route takes in several steep peaks and provides awesome views of the Pentland Hills.

Beginning at the Flotterstone Inn, head west along the Glencorse Burn, before following signs for Scald Law. Now take the steep ascent up Turnhouse Hill - the first of today's peaks. Now carry on southwest over Carnethy Hill, before descending and reascending up Scald Law. Retreat to the bealach between Carnethy and Scald Law and descend to the southwest tip of Loganlee Reservoir. Jog the body of water's length and carry on until you reach the Glencorse Reservoir.

Once you reach the north corner of this L shaped lake, head east and return to your start point by the Flotterstone Inn.

Distance: 7.5 miles

Route: walkhighlands.co.ukPriestlaw Hill