4k Run Craigmillar: Historic Loop Around Craigmillar Castle

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 4.4km loop offers a fantastic blend of history and hill work, circling the majestic perimeter of Craigmillar Castle. As an "SL" (Short/Low) course with 34m of ascent, it provides just enough of a climb to get your heart rate up without being overwhelming. Typical of Edinburgh running, the terrain is mostly paved (85%), making it a reliable choice for road shoes even when the Scottish weather turns damp. Runners will enjoy the sweeping views of the castle’s curtain walls as they navigate the castle gardens, returning along steady stretches on Greendykes Road and Craigmillar Castle Avenue that allow for a consistent tempo.

Known as Edinburgh’s "other castle," Craigmillar Castle carries a storied past dating back to the 14th century, famously serving as a place of retreat for Mary, Queen of Scots. Running here feels like stepping through time; the surrounding parkland is a hidden gem in the city’s southeast, offering a quieter, more atmospheric alternative to the crowded paths of Holyrood Park. As you hammer out the kilometers, keep an eye out for the ancient yew trees and the natural greenery that contrasts sharply with the nearby urban landscape, a testament to the area's ongoing regeneration and deep heritage.