Flotterstone Edinburgh - A Paradise on Our Doorstep

While exiled in exotic Samoa, Stevenson dreamt of a return to what he called a 'paradise' on the outskirts of Edinburgh. 

We can't recommend this walk enough for accessibility and breathtaking beauty.

Beauty and History

Stevenson’s paradise is Flotterstone.  It's hardly surprising he loved the riotous waterfall, the stunning glen, the breathtaking panorama of the hills - a stramash of colour throughout the seasons.  Waterfowl are abundant and below the water lies the ruins of the 13th-century Chapel of St Catherine of the Hopes, founded by Sir William St Clair of Roslin, who was killed while on the mission carrying the heart of Robert the Bruce to the Holy Land.

Clearly missing the wild romance of the area Stevenson wrote to fellow author SR Crocket ‘the dearest burn to me in the world is that which drums and pours in cunning wimples in that glen of yours behind Glencorse old kirk... Go there and say a prayer for me".

A Great Day Out

Stevenson never saw those hills again but they’re there for us to enjoy – a great day out for families, lovers or visitors from out of town.  Walking, cycling and horse-riding are popular and there are plenty of lovely areas for barbecuing and picnicking.

After exploring the area, why not have a drink at the atmospheric Flotterstone Inn at the entrance to the National Park?

More stunning views of Flotterstone.....

Sunlight on Glencorse water	Spring flowers
Glencorse in winter	Castlelaw in winter
Fishing boats on Glencorse	Butterfly on Campion
Broom in Bloom	Rainbows on Still Water