Walks · Our pick in Edinburgh
The Union Canal towpath
Self-guided
About The Union Canal towpath
The Union Canal starts at Edinburgh Quay in Fountainbridge; its towpath, looked after by Scottish Canals, runs west out of the city.
Why it's on our list
- Flat
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with The Union Canal towpath before you go.
What’s nearby
Distances from The Union Canal towpath are approximate, measured in a straight line (as the crow flies). Times are approximate too: walking at about 80 metres a minute, cycling at about 14 km/h and driving at typical city-traffic speeds. Traffic and routes vary.
Nearest tram stops and railway stations
- West EndTram700 m9 min walk
- HaymarketRail700 m9 min walk
- HaymarketTram800 m10 min walk
Key sights
- Edinburgh Castle850 mWalk 10 minCycle 4 minCar or taxi 7 min
- National Museum1.3 kmWalk 16 minCycle 6 minCar or taxi 9 min
- St Giles’ Cathedral1.3 kmWalk 17 minCycle 6 minCar or taxi 9 min
- Royal Botanic Garden2.5 kmWalk 31 minCycle 11 minCar or taxi 12 min
- Holyroodhouse2.6 kmWalk 32 minCycle 11 minCar or taxi 12 min
- Arthur’s Seat2.9 kmWalk 37 minCycle 13 minCar or taxi 13 min
- Britannia4.8 kmCycle 21 minCar or taxi 18 min
- Edinburgh Airport9.4 kmCycle 40 minCar or taxi 31 min
Main railway stations
- Haymarket750 mWalk 9 minCycle 3 minCar or taxi 7 min
- Edinburgh Waverley1.5 kmWalk 19 minCycle 7 minCar or taxi 9 min