The short circular walk through the woods surrounding the Harlaw Reservoir is a very popular Pentlands stroll. The walk described here extends this to follow the bank of Threipmuir reservoir to Black Springs.
Bog Factor
Mostly good paths; short very boggy stretch by Threipmuir reservoir.
Harlaw visitor centre car park.
Nearest bus is at Balerno; no.44 from Edinburgh.
NT181654
Park at Harlaw House visitor centre car park, and begin by following the signed path (for Harlaw House VC) through the woods. The path soon emerges onto a track; go through the gate ahead to reach the visitor centre, housed in a small cottage; there are also toilets here.
Turn right at the signpost immediately beyond ('Threipmuir Reservoir') and cross the dam with Harlaw Reservoir on your left. Once over the dam turn left to follow the broad, well-made path parallel to the water.
The path soon runs straight, divided from the reservoir by woodland on the left - it is possible to instead follow rough paths through the woodland before eventually rejoining the path. At the far end of the reservoir cross the footbridge over the feed channel, then turn left alongside the earth dam of Threipmuir Reservoir (unseen over the dam).
A signed path on the left leads back to the start along the opposite side of Harlaw Reservoir for an easier and drier walk, but our route continues ahead briefly. Head right up the grassy bank to reach the side of Threipmuir Reservoir, then cross a short stretch of boggy ground to enter the woods, keeping the water close by on your right.
The woods are eventually left behind and the path improves as it continues by the water. Shortly after a causeway across the reservoir, follow the path as it curves left to head through a gate. Follow it uphill into the trees. At another gate, pass through it then dogleg right to the next gate. After a final gate, bear left of the trees to reach a footpath signpost in the wall enclosing Harlaw Reservoir.
Cross the stile then follow the clear path to the right. It soon leads back to the visitor centre; retrace your steps to return to the start.
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