Edinburgh Castle Hill paths reopen after years of closure

Map of Castle Terrace. (Image: Supplied)

The paths had been shut since 2018 after safety concerns linked to falling debris from the rock face.

Work to restore access included clearing vegetation, repairing path surfaces and installing additional safety measures.

Reopened routes include the path linking the castle car park to the Mound, along with two paths descending from the Mound towards the railway bridge near the Ross Bandstand.

A separate section connecting King’s Stables Road to Princes Street Gardens West via the bridge near the Ross Fountain had already reopened in September last year following the installation of protective netting.

Despite the reopening, parts of the path network directly beneath the rock face will remain permanently closed due to ongoing safety risks.

Additional fencing and warning signage have been installed in these areas to prevent public access.

The permanently closed sections include the route from Johnston Terrace to the bridge near the Ross Bandstand, the spur leading to King’s Stables Road, two paths climbing the north face of Castle Hill towards the castle, and a short route directly beneath the rock face.

Historic Environment Scotland continues to carry out stabilisation work on the cliff face surrounding the castle.

Edinburgh City Council said discussions with the organisation would continue as the work progresses.

A council report said: "A portion of the path network under the hill was deemed safe late last year.

"Maintenance work was carried out by council staff over the winter months in order to clear vegetation and restore the paths themselves, with the relevant paths opening on May 1."

The report added: "There is no opportunity to put any control or mitigation to reduce the risk from debris.

"Additional fencing and signage have been erected to warn members of the public of the risk and to stop the use of certain path routes."