Arthur's Seat
Arthur's Seat
4.5
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
About
Arthur's Seat is one of four hill forts, dating from around 2,000 years ago. Situated within Holyrood Park, as well as it's rich cultural heritage, the park offers walks, solace, wildlife, volcanic geology and unparalleled vistas of the city from its many vantage points. The park has several Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) designations due to its exceptional range of grassland habitats and its internationally important volcanic geology. Ranger service on site.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Southside & Holyrood
Many of Edinburgh’s student hangouts gather around university buildings in Southside, the sort of neighbourhood that supports a long string of second-hand shops and eateries serving ethnic food for just a few pounds. In August the student population is replaced by vast numbers of boisterous visitors here for the Fringe, Edinburgh’s world-class comedy and arts festival which headquarters itself here. Flanking Southside are two great parks. The Meadows is a vast flat and sporty space where football, rugby, tennis, cricket, croquet, and golf often all take place side by side. Kids in its big playgrounds add to the joyful noise. Far bigger and much wilder, Holyrood Park extends to the east and provides a real hike up Arthur’s Seat, but the district is best known as the site of Scotland’s Parliament and its premier Royal Palace—and their steady stream of sightseers.
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See what travellers are saying
- Clare SPlymouth, United Kingdom19 contributionsFantastic views that blew me away!I was on the fence about doing this hike but it was honestly a fantastic experience with views I won't forget anytime soon. The hike itself (route from Holyrood Carpark) was fairly steep and is very rocky at the top, so not the most straightforward walk. The views from the top were incredible and worth the effort. You can see the whole city of Edinburgh, the Forth Bridge, snow-covered mountains in the distance and so much further. At the base is a beautiful loch with swans and geese, which is worth looking at. On the return journey, I took the route from the back of the hill down towards Dunsapie Loch, which was also beautiful and home to even more wild birds. It's a much easier route down, quite literally downhill on grass, not rocks. It takes you to a pavement path which leads you around the base of the hill. The journey up took about 50 minutes, with many photo and water breaks, so not too long. Definitely worth the visit if you like walking and great views.Visited March 2023Written 20 March 2023
- Victoria CampbellSouthend-on-Sea, United Kingdom374 contributionsTake your time and take a beer- It's worth the hikeIn the past I have been exceptionally fit (we are talking marathon and ultramarathon running) but those years are far behind me and I am considerably heavier these days. I would say that Arthurs Seat is a nice steady climb. Not easy, but not a massive challenge if you don't rush. The views of Edinburgh are absolutely stunning, even on a grey drizzly day like we had! Beware the top is quite busy with people grabbing trendy snaps for the gram! At the bottom there is a banging ice cream van. We had one on the way up and then one after! (told you I was a few stone heavier than my running days). Also took a beer up to have at the top- Top tip IMO!Visited February 2023Written 24 March 2023
- Linnéa SÄngelholm, Sweden4 contributionsIncredible view !Took a while to get up and it was pretty steep and slippery so I recommend a pair of good shoes. I also recommend that you’re used to walking long distances as it was physically hard and took about an hour for me to get to the top. When at the top it was so worth it and a really beautiful view over Edinburgh 😍🙌🏼Visited March 2023Travelled soloWritten 26 March 2023
- Stacey K9 contributionsThings to Know before you goThe trek up to Arthur's Seat is not a smooth path. Don't bother to bring your strollers it's just something else to carry. Pace yourself it's quite a hike. The terrain is very rocky in parts. If it rains the rocks are slick. There are no park bench rest stops. Saying all that to say it's worth the hike, but be prepared.Visited March 2023Written 27 March 2023
- janeybaby75Llanelli, United Kingdom37 contributionsStunning views. A definite mustA must when visiting Edinburgh. We climbed up the hill in quite damp weather but it's more than doable. We came down the other side, which is tarmacked so there is an easier way up, should you need it. Just follow the main road a bit further. Lovely views from the top.Visited March 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 29 March 2023
- Carla M.Carrigaline, Ireland48 contributionsWonderful walk and cityseeing spot in the nature, but still close to the city!Me and my husband did the walk to the very top of Arthur's Seat in a cloudy and relatively foggy day, quite cold and gloomy, but that didn't discouraged us to reach the top and enjoy the nature around and the amazing view of Edinburgh. Really close to the city, it is possible to reach the place by bus or taxi without any problem and at any time. Good shoes and strong will recommended :DVisited April 2022Written 30 March 2023
- Amy25 contributionsBreathtaking climb to breathtaking viewsWe adored our climb up Arthur’s seat. We found the route well laid out allowing for a suitable ascent to the top. For someone lacking in fitness it was a bit of a challenging climb, but plenty of boulders to rest on, and constantly changing stunning views makes this a walk not to be missed. Persevere to the top and you’ll be rewarded with the most incredible views across Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. Bit of a scramble for the last section of the walk so wear good shoes with a sturdy grip if you intend to reach the summit.Visited April 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 6 April 2023
- Rajpal SLondon, United Kingdom121 contributionsA must if you come to Edinburgh!Came on a nice sunny afternoon with the family. One side has a moderately challenging walk up, whereas otherwise is more green and calmer walk up. The top is not for the fainted hearted and needs a bit of climbing skill (not for smaller children). Would strongly recommend coming here for a good bit of exercise and taking in the breathe taking views!Visited April 2023Travelled with familyWritten 7 April 2023
- Julien HSaint Louis, Missouri11 contributionsPrepare before you go!Important thing I wish I had known: there's an easy way and a hard way up the hill! But the views and the sweet-smelling gorse flowers are worth the climb. The closest restroom is at the Scottish parliament building. The park surrounding Arthur's Seat is lovely.Visited April 2023Written 12 April 2023
- Eggyman5 contributionsArthur’s Seat is spectacular.Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh is definitely worth the climb. The stunning views at the top are absolutely wonderful! If you plan on hiking up this ancient volcano, there's one thing you should know: there are multiple routes to choose from, with some being easier than others. Nonetheless, the experience was great.Visited March 2023Written 13 April 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
21,694 reviews
Excellent
16,837
Very good
4,264
Average
514
Poor
49
Terrible
31
Stuart Kie
Cork, Ireland5 contributions
Mar 2024 • Couples
We walked up to Authurs seat at 8am. Lovely clear day. Fantastic views. Well worth doing. Not for people with walking difficulties or breathing problems. Nice trails off the main one. Would fancy this if the weather wasn't good. We done it on a good day and we we still damp. Good get slippy, so if you are doing it make sure you have the right foot wear. We loved it ❤️
Written 15 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
shackleston
Redcar, UK814 contributions
Mar 2024 • Friends
Didn't walk up it but view was impressive from the bottom. Doesn't take long to get there from the Royal Mile. Hollyrood Palace and Scottish Parliament near by.
Written 14 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kaiya R
37 contributions
Jan 2024 • Friends
The views were STUNNING from the top, the walk isn’t too difficult apart from a few rocky bits. We visited when it was slightly icy which definitely made our trip harder but it still wasn’t too bad. The worst part was getting up right at the top and coming down from that bit as the dust tends to slip from beneath you but there was probably a better route down 😂 super windy at the top so take a hood or ear muffs or something but overall so worth it and I’ll definitely walk it again!
Written 13 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
belinda kambua
Mtito Andei, Kenya20 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
Great experience.A must if you visit edinburgh.The views were amazing.it was not easy but we loved it.100% worth a visit
Written 5 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tyla
Southend-on-Sea, UK6 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
Spent the weekend in Ediburgh and this was absolutely my highlight. Gorgeous, gorgeous views and such a variety of experience. My girlfriend and I ascended up the regular path, we encountered plenty of others doing the same and returning. The path is very natural and really gives you the feel of adventure. We even encountered some brave joggers going up and down in the rain and fog!
At the top, it was unfortunately too foggy to take in the whole view, but the best part was yet to come! We decided to descend via a different path (towards Duddingston Loch) and ended up in a dream-like marsh seemingly only traversed by rabbits. We found a thin and somewhat dangerous path down (it had one set of bootprints so we knew it was ok!) and followed it. Bear in mind we had no climbing/walking shoes and it was raining, but we were fine. There was a moment when our view opened up to the Loch, and we watched the clouds part, and my God. It took my breath away and then some! Fantastic.
All in all, ascent was about an hour, descent was a bit longer but that was because of the path we took. Definitely recommend bringing water, and being ready for incredible views in all directions.
At the top, it was unfortunately too foggy to take in the whole view, but the best part was yet to come! We decided to descend via a different path (towards Duddingston Loch) and ended up in a dream-like marsh seemingly only traversed by rabbits. We found a thin and somewhat dangerous path down (it had one set of bootprints so we knew it was ok!) and followed it. Bear in mind we had no climbing/walking shoes and it was raining, but we were fine. There was a moment when our view opened up to the Loch, and we watched the clouds part, and my God. It took my breath away and then some! Fantastic.
All in all, ascent was about an hour, descent was a bit longer but that was because of the path we took. Definitely recommend bringing water, and being ready for incredible views in all directions.
Written 15 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
J099
Derby, UK550 contributions
Jan 2024 • Couples
Worth the hike up but walking boots a must.
Not sure which path we took up to the top but once you have literally srabbled and rock climbed to the top the views are amazing
Please wear walking boots/sturdy boots and take a jacket/hat/gloves as very cold at the summit.
To reach the summit you have to climb on jagged slippery rocks and the descent is even more challenging. Be careful not too loose your footing.
Worth the effort though for the fantastic views
Not sure which path we took up to the top but once you have literally srabbled and rock climbed to the top the views are amazing
Please wear walking boots/sturdy boots and take a jacket/hat/gloves as very cold at the summit.
To reach the summit you have to climb on jagged slippery rocks and the descent is even more challenging. Be careful not too loose your footing.
Worth the effort though for the fantastic views
Written 31 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mylilbeautiful
West Midlands, UK58 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
Fab walk. It's tough but oh so worth the view. Very very windy when at the top.... Great excercise though 💪👣👣 popular place
Written 30 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
James D
Cape Town, South Africa156 contributions
Jan 2024 • Solo
Really just a jaunt up a small hill but well worth the effort. It was wet, muddy and cold when I went but very manageable in trainers. The views are well worth the walk.
Written 24 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jenn and Mike
4 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
Great strenuous hike straight up the steep side to the top , after having flown overnight from Canada to Edinburgh. Best thing we did to re energize after the flight.
Written 23 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
2 Beer Luvin Travellers
Kingston-upon-Hull, UK8 contributions
Jan 2024 • Couples
We walked up on a very cold and windy day, with ice at the summit, which was ok , to get to the very top you do need to clamber up rocks, if you reach the lower plateau you still get excellent views ,There were different age groups reaching the top and there were people happy to take pics for you at summit.
Written 22 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BermondseyBob
Scarborough, UK117 contributions
I don't suppose there's any public toilets in the area?
Jemima S
Johannesburg, South Africa34 contributions
No toilets at this trail. It is a short walk back to town so you will find there
Frank K
Leeds, UK5 contributions
I have a 5 month old - can I manage to get to the top with her in the pram? Thanks
Carrieonsos
Essex, UK297 contributions
You would not get to the very very top, but you’d get most the way there.
The ‘pathway’ ends as it’s just too rocky. Even in places the pathway has random steps and odd rocks. Hope you have a lightweight but robust pram. I’d recommend using a back pack baby holder to be honest.
Katarína Ď
4 contributions
Is this accessible by public transport? Thanks
JimmyV_Traveler
Glastonbury, CT130 contributions
After our journey, we took a bus from the Parliament Building back to the our hotel in the Lauriston Gardens area. But the bus will only get you to the base of the hill. You still must do the entire climb starting at Holyrood Park. There is no public transportation that will get you anywhere beyond that.
Serendipity
Urmston, UK108 contributions
Those that have done the walk with children (youngest 7), which path did you take?
Thanks
Trevor S
28 contributions
From the car park nearest Holyrood, cross the road and follow the path to the right if you don't mind not getting to the very top, or left if you do want to go all the way. On some maps it's the Blue route.
137nigel1965
Horsham, UK75 contributions
Is there an easy way up for less able/ elderly people- such as a golf buggy type ride? We are coming up in September and really want to do the walk up but will have my 91 yr old father with us who would not be able to walk it! Thank you.
San Dra
Hamilton, UK19 contributions
There is various up Arthur's Seat but you would only get so far up with scooter. A few paths were closed due to birds nesting and rocks falling. It's volcanic rock nearer the top and can be difficult for walking especially when wet as it's slippy. You may not get to the top but you'll still have a fantastic view going round😍
BeknBri
Virginia Beach, VA66 contributions
Which trail should we choose if we wanted to get to the Sheep’s Heid from Old Town?
Travel Guide Guy
47 contributions
I'd say the wider/easier path on the left, which will bring you right down to the road, dog park area, and parking.
Marta D
Barcelona, Spain3,918 contributions
Hola!! Es peligroso subir con una niña de 3 años? Gracias !!
Lara S
Stazzo21 contributions
¡Hola, Marta! La montaña no está asegurada por vallas, etc. Así que deberías mantener a la chica contigo y no dejar que huya sin pensar. De lo contrario, el ascenso también es posible con niños (al menos una parte).
Kevin S
Valletta, Malta92 contributions
How do I get to the feet of the Hill please?
holidayneeded72
Guildford124 contributions
Start near Holyrood Palace. The path goes from opposite the car park next to Queen’s Drive. Just walk around Holyrood Palace walls to get there.
Bonjour,
Quel est le parking le plus près afin de stationner son véhicule avant de monter ?
Merci pour vos réponses
carlosbaccino
Buenos Aires, Argentina25 contributions
Buen día Fanny, en la base de hay un parque con un pequeño lugar para estacionar. De todos modos la ciudad es muy amigable para moverse a pie o en transporte público.
Saludos
C
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Claim your listingARTHUR'S SEAT: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Arthur's Seat
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Arthur's Seat:
- City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour (From $33.78)
- Edinburgh Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours (From $186.76)
- Edinburgh Sky to Sea Bike Tour by Manual or E-Bike (From $137.24)
- Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience (From $91.85)
- Edinburgh Private Tour with a Local Guide, Highlights & Hidden Gems (From $128.80)
- Hotels near Arthur's Seat:
- (0.89 km) Prestonfield
- (1.00 km) 94DR
- (0.98 km) Hotel Ceilidh-Donia
- (0.73 km) The Scholar
- (1.13 km) AmarAgua Guest House
- Restaurants near Arthur's Seat:
- (0.89 km) Rhubarb - The Restaurant at Prestonfield
- (1.08 km) Macau Kitchen
- (1.08 km) Blonde Restaurant
- (1.23 km) The Pakora Bar
- (1.24 km) Voujon
- Attractions near Arthur's Seat:
- (0.06 km) Terra Via Adventures
- (1.14 km) Palace of Holyroodhouse
- (1.03 km) Experienced Tours
- (1.74 km) National Museum of Scotland
- (0.99 km) Holyrood Distillery