Dunsapie Loch

Dunsapie Loch is a small lake in Holyrood Park, Edinburgh, sitting beside Queen's Drive at the foot of Dunsapie Hill. The park covers roughly 260 hectares, lies about a mile east of Edinburgh Castle and is managed by Historic Environment Scotland. It makes an easy stop on any walk toward Arthur's Seat, with no climbing needed to reach the water.

What is this place?

Holyrood Park is a patch of wild highland-style terrain in the middle of the Scottish capital, with hills, crags, glens, gorse and several lochs. It dates from 1541, when James V had a wall built around the land surrounding Arthur's Seat and the neighbouring crags. The old royal hunting ground is now open to everyone. Dunsapie Loch is one of the park's three lochs, alongside St Margaret's Loch and Duddingston Loch, and it occupies the eastern edge at road level.

What can you see at Dunsapie Loch?

The water itself is compact, but the backdrop is striking: the rocky slope of Dunsapie Hill rises directly from the shore, with Arthur's Seat behind it. Waterfowl are common on the loch, and walkers report otters here now and then. In spring, cygnets draw crowds to the shore.

From the loch, a short and steep climb on informal grassy paths takes a few minutes to reach the top of Dunsapie Hill. Paths start from either end of the water. The summit looks east over East Lothian and west to Arthur's Seat.

How do you get there?

On foot, allow 40 to 50 minutes from the Palace of Holyroodhouse along Queen's Drive. By car, park on Queen's Drive, where a small car park by the loch operates limited opening hours. A longer approach starts in Duddingston or Willowbrae.

How should you plan a walk here?

The loch fits a loop around the park: St Margaret's Loch and the ruined St Anthony's Chapel, the ascent of Arthur's Seat, then the descent to Dunsapie. Morning and late-afternoon light suit photography best. Paths are easy when dry, but the grassy slopes turn slippery after rain, so wear shoes with good grip. Dogs must be on a lead because birds nest on the ground in the wilder areas.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee for Dunsapie Loch?

No. Holyrood Park is open to all and run by Historic Environment Scotland.

How long should I allow?

Fifteen to twenty minutes for the loch alone, about an hour with the climb up Dunsapie Hill, and two to three hours combined with Arthur's Seat and St Margaret's Loch.

Can I park by the loch?

Yes, on Queen's Drive, but the car park has limited opening hours. If it is closed, walk into the park from Holyrood or Duddingston.

Is Dunsapie Hill suitable for children?

The climb takes only a few minutes, but it is steep and grassy, so go slowly with young children and watch for slippery patches.