Oxton

Duddingston Loch

Duddingston Village · 18 miles

A freshwater loch of roughly eight hectares lies on the southern edge of Holyrood Park, just south of Arthur’s Seat and a short walk from the village of Duddingston. It is one of the last two natural lochs remaining within the city limits of Edinburgh, the other being Lochend Loch, and the only natural water body among the three lochs in the park. The loch’s history stretches back to the Bronze Age, when a hoard of swords, spears and other artefacts was deliberately deposited in its waters. The items lay undisturbed until a dredger recovered them in 1778; they are now displayed in the Early People gallery at the National Museum of Scotland. The scene of Henry Raeburn’s painting *The Skating Minister* was once a popular ice-skating venue, and the loch also hosted early curling activity. Records of curling date from at least 1761, with the Duddingston Curling Society formally established in 1795. William Henry Playfair’s Thomson’s Tower, built in 1824, still stands on the north side of the loch, marking the sport’s historic presence. Designated a bird sanctuary since 1925, the loch supports the most extensive common reed bed in the Lothians and a wildlife reserve at Bawsinch managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. Mammals such as otter, hedgehog and water vole are regularly observed, while the western end hosts the region’s largest heronry, recorded with 27 nests in 2017. Anglers may obtain free coarse-fishing permits from the Holyrood Park Ranger Service, though fishing is restricted to the north shore and all catches must be released. Species commonly targeted include carp, perch, roach and pike.

Village Hall

Smailholm · 14 miles

Local Area for Play

The Seton Garden

Seton · 15 miles

A private wedding and events venue

Forest Holidays Glentress Forest

Linnburn · 16 miles

This site contains eco-sensitive log cabins with hot tubs and a Forest Retreat bar, restaurant. cafe and shop. Activities available include Forest Ranger and nature based activities.

Moredunvale Park

Moredun · 17 miles

HSG 30 - City of Edinburgh

The Porty Light Box

Bellfield · 17 miles

A red telephone box converted in 2013 into a mini gallery