Arthur’s Seat, with a dog in tow.

The rules that matter

The park is looked after by Historic Environment Scotland (HES). Their visitor information says dogs are welcome, and asks two things of owners:

• Clean up after your dog, everywhere in the park. Not picking up in a public place can also get you an £80 fixed penalty under the Dog Fouling (Scotland) Act 2003.
• Follow the signs about keeping dogs on a lead in certain areas during the nesting season, to protect ground-nesting birds. The signs show where this applies, so look out for them on the paths you use.

Nesting season and the lochs

The Scottish Outdoor Access Code asks dog walkers to keep dogs on a short lead or close at heel on grassland and by lochs during the bird breeding season, usually April to July. Much of Holyrood Park is exactly that kind of ground, so it’s worth having your dog on a lead through spring and early summer even where there isn’t a sign.

St Margaret’s, Dunsapie and Duddingston lochs attract a lot of birds, and people come to feed them. Keep your dog on a lead near the water so they can’t chase or flush the birds, and keep them away from any food left for the birds, too.

Steep drops and slippery paths

HES warns of sheer drops and uneven, slippery surfaces, on ground such as Salisbury Crags and the upper slopes of Arthur’s Seat. A dog chasing a ball or a smell doesn’t see a cliff edge coming, so use a lead near the crags and on the top. The climbing areas and the northern part of the Radical Road are closed for safety at the moment, so stick to the open paths and follow any closure signs.

Wear shoes with good grip, and after rain take the lower, gentler routes.

Choosing your route

• For puppies, older dogs and dogs who tire easily: the flatter paths around the lochs and along the lower slopes give plenty to sniff without the climb.
• For fit, confident dogs: the climb to the summit is short but steep. Go early to avoid the crowds at the top, and carry water on warm days.
• The park’s roads are used by cyclists and, on some stretches, cars. Keep your dog on a lead on and near the roads.
• If your puppy hasn’t finished their vaccinations, ask your vet when it’s safe for them to walk in public places.

For dogs who find busy places hard

At weekends and in summer the park is very busy, with other dogs, runners, bikes and groups of visitors. Early mornings are usually calmer. If your dog struggles with all of that, our private and support walks give them space and a calm route, and a quieter walk is not a lesser one.