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.

Attendee notes

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.

Part of the route is not accessible by wheelchair but this is only a small part of the route up to Hermitage Doocot. Staff will stay with anyone not wanting to go up the stairs and will share the same information that the group would receive at that part of the route.

Important points to note

This event is suitable for age 16+

Event format: This event will take place outside at the Hermitage of Braid. Please follow all instructions given for the meeting place and take weather precautions based on the forecast.

Filming: Photography may take place at this event. Please let a member of the RSE Public Engagement team know if you do not want to be photographed.

SPEAKER

Dr Roger Scrutton FRSE

Research Fellow in Outdoor and Environmental Education, University of Edinburgh

Former 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.

About the Curious festival

The RSE’s free Curious festival of knowledge is back, from Saturday 5 − Sunday 13 September 2026!

Curious is Scotland’s annual festival of knowledge. Across its seven-year history, Curious has welcomed over 10,000 attendees into its yearly programme of talks, workshops, discussions and exhibitions – all covering different topics and subject areas. There’s no need for you to have any prior specialist knowledge before coming along, just bring your curious self! With plenty of events both in person and online, you can take part from anywhere.

You can check out the full programme of events here.

Accessibility

We aim to make events as accessible as possible. If you have any accessibility requirements or have any questions related to how we can support this event, please contact curious@theRSE.org.uk. Accessibility information for the RSE building can be found on our website.

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Description supplied by the event organiser.