Calton Hill & Arthur's Seat (Weather Permitting)
Details
Put on your comfy walking shoes cause you're going to stretch your legs and lungs and enjoy a leisurely walk/hike up Calton Hill and over to Arthurs Seat before finishing at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Calton Hill
A short climb up one of Edinburgh’s most recognizable hills rewards you with some of the city’s best panoramic views. From the summit, look across the Old Town and Royal Mile toward Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat, with views stretching north over the Firth of Forth to Fife.
Calton Hill is also home to some of Edinburgh’s most distinctive monuments, including the unfinished National Monument, inspired by the Parthenon and earning the nickname “Edinburgh’s Disgrace,” and the Nelson Monument, built as a tribute to Admiral Nelson. You’ll also find the historic City Observatory and the elegant Dugald Stewart Monument.
Allow about 45–60 minutes for the walk, exploring the monuments and taking in the views. It’s an easy addition to a day exploring the New Town and Princes Street.
Arthurs Seat
For a more dramatic perspective on Edinburgh, head to Arthur’s Seat, the ancient volcanic peak rising above Holyrood Park. The summit offers spectacular 360-degree views across Edinburgh, from the medieval Old Town and Edinburgh Castle to the Firth of Forth and the surrounding countryside.
The hike is more demanding than Calton Hill, with uneven and sometimes steep terrain, but you don’t need to reach the summit to enjoy the experience. The Holyrood Park trails wind through a striking landscape of volcanic cliffs, grassy slopes and sweeping city views.
If you want the full experience, allow roughly 2–2½ hours for the round-trip hike to the summit. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for changeable Scottish weather—the conditions at the top can be considerably different from those in the city below. If hiking isn't your thing, there are flatter walking paths around the seat and enjoy the views of St. Margaret's Loch.
Activity Info
Schedule
Start Time
Sep 6 9:00AM BST
to
End Time
Sep 6 11:30AM BST