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Edinburgh’s own gorge: the story of the Hermitage of Braid
When
Monday 7 September 2026 16:30
Sunday 13 September 2026 16:00
Where
Hermitage of Braid, Edinburgh
Meeting point: Outside the Lodge Coffee House, 69B Braid Rd, Edinburgh EH10 6JF
View directions on Google Maps
Format
In-person
Age
Suitable for ages 16+
Cost
Free to book
About this event
Join us for this walking tour of the beautiful Hermitage of Braid to discover its history and biodiversity.
The Hermitage of Braid lies between the Blackford and Braid Hills just south of Edinburgh. Geologically, it is at the northernmost tip of the Pentland Hills.
Its history prompts numerous questions:
Why is there a gorge here at all? Who was Henri de Brad? What is the evidence for a castle from the 12th to 18th Centuries? Was there a hermit? Does the botanical evidence reflect a microclimate?
With the help of old and new maps and some astute observations, it is possible to investigate and try to answer these and other questions. This can be done on a leisurely walk through this curious gorge. Join us for this walking tour as we explore the questions above, taking in the natural environment of the gorge as we go. There is the optional choice of continuing for another 5-10 minutes after the tour ends to visit Agassiz’ Rock where geological evidence that Scotland has been glaciated can be seen.
Available dates and times
- Monday 7 September 16:30-18:30
- Sunday 13 September 14:00-16:00
Logistics
The walk will be about 1.5-2.0km out and 1.5-2.0km back (3-4km total), including stops and discussions. The meeting place is at the west end of the Hermitage and will be sent in the confirmation email when a place is booked.
Sturdy walking shoes would be ideal. Boots are not necessary, but after rain, it could be muddy in places. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
Please bring any drinks or snacks you might want, wear sunscreen, and bring water if the weather is hot.
Meeting point
Outside the Lodge Coffee House, 69B Braid Rd, Edinburgh EH10 6JF
Event type
Curious
Outdoor Activity
Contributors
Dr Roger Scrutton
Research Fellow in Outdoor and Environmental Education, University of EdinburghFormer Reader in Geophysics, School of Geosciences, University of Edinburgh. From 2008, Research Fellow at Moray House School of Education and Sport at Edinburgh, researching and evaluating the benefits of recreation and learning outdoors. Trustee of two outdoor-related charities and member of the Scottish Adventure Activities Forum, Scottish Outdoor Consortium and the National Access Forum. One-time President of the Scottish Orienteering Association.
Contact us
If you have an event enquiry, please email us on public_engagement@theRSE.org.uk.Event testimonial
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What is Curious?
Curious is the Royal Society of Edinburgh’s (RSE) free festival that celebrates the research, ideas and knowledge shaping society today.
Each year, Curious brings a packed programme of free in-person and online events covering themes from the arts, humanities, policy, science and more. To date, we’ve welcomed over 10,000 attendees for talks, workshops, exhibitions and discussions where you can learn from and speak with Scotland’s leading thinkers. As part of the RSE’s mission to make knowledge useful and accessible for everyone, Curious is open to anyone who wants to learn more about the world around them. No specialist knowledge is needed, just bring your curiosity.
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