Whether you’re an Edinburgh resident or just visiting for the festivals, August is a great time to take in some of the best walks the Capital has to offer.
The city is blessed with a wonderful network of parks, trails, hills (famously there are seven of them) and nature reserves.
So, if the hustle and bustle is getting a bit too much for you, here are 12 walks you can enjoy, without a performer or juggler in sight.
1. Arthur's Seat
You can't miss Arthur's Seat - the ancient extinct volcano you can see from across the city. It's a must-do for any first time visitor to Edinburgh to climb to the 251 metre-high summit and enjoy the panoramic views. Allow about two hours for the round trip, although a walk from Dunsapie Loch (where otters can be seen) takes out a bit of the hike and takes about half the length of time. When you're back down it's a short walk to the Pleasance Courtyard for a drink and a show. | Canva/Getty Images
2. Calton Hill
A short climb from the east end of Princes Street, you only need half an hour to pop up to Calton Hill, explore the various monuments (including the National Monument, the Nelson Monument, the Dugald Stewart Monument, the Robert Burns Monument, the Political Martyrs' Monument and the City Observatory. It's a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the festival and enjoy spectacular views of the city centre. | Canva/Getty Images
3. Water of Leith Walkway
The Water of Leith Walkway links two very different, but equally interesting, areas of Edinburgh - the picturesque Dean Village (pictured) and the trendy harbor district of Leith with its fashionable bars and Michelin-starred restaurants. It's a walk of around three miles, taking about 90 minutes. | Canva/Getty Images
4. Johnston Terrace Wildlife Reserve
Small, but perfectly-formed, the Johnston Terrace Wildlife Reserve is right in the middle of Edinburgh's Old Town, hidden down a lane in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle - just a stone's throw from where the Military Tattoo takes place each night in August. You'll feel like you're a million miles away from the busy city centre as you walk through woodland to a peaceful wildflower meadow and panoramic views of the city. | Google Maps