Harbottle has joined the Club for an undisclosed fee, putting pen-to-paper on a three-year deal until summer 2026.
The 22-year-old centre-back is a product of the Nottingham Forest Academy, making his way through the various age grades before making his First Team debut in the Carabao Cup in August 2021.
The powerful defender is strong in the air, carries a goal threat, and is a leader on the pitch having captained the Forest U18 and U23 sides during his time down south.
Harbottle spent the 2022/23 campaign on loan at English League Two side, Mansfield Town – where he made 37 appearances (all comps) and scored six times for Nigel Clough’s side.
The Englishman now joins the Hibees and will add strength and depth to the defensive back line.
Hibernian FC Manager Lee Johnson commented: “Riley is a young defender with a lot of potential and we’re delighted to bring him to the Club.
“He has good pedigree coming from Nottingham Forest’s Academy and impressed with Mansfield last year.
“He’s a talented young player that we believe we can develop and he adds strength in depth for us at centre-back.
“Everyone is looking forward to working with him.”