An extinct volcano rising 251 m (823 ft) in a royal park beside Holyrood. The standard route climbs from near Dunsapie Loch (about 45 minutes) or from Holyrood Road past Salisbury Crags (about 1 hour). Paths are steep and slippery when wet; sturdy shoes are essential.
Arthur's Seat is an extinct volcano rising 251 metres (823 feet) inside Holyrood Park, a former royal hunting ground that lies directly beside the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Scottish Parliament. The park contains crags, lochs, moorland and a ruined chapel, giving Edinburgh a wild landscape within walking distance of the Royal Mile. The most popular route starts near Dunsapie Loch on the eastern side and reaches the summit in roughly 45 minutes. A steeper route climbs from Holyrood Road past the Salisbury Crags, taking about an hour, and the Radical Road beneath the crags is a well-known path for views over the city. The summit rewards walkers with a 360-degree view across Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, Fife and, on clear days, towards the Pentland Hills. Other sights within the park include St Anthony's Chapel ruins, St Margaret's Loch and the Hunter's Bog valley. Visitors should allow between one and a half and three hours, depending on route and pace. The final scramble to the summit is rocky, and paths become slippery after rain, so sturdy shoes are essential. Weather changes quickly and the summit is exposed to wind. Crowds peak on sunny weekend afternoons and in summer evenings, while sunrise offers a quiet, atmospheric ascent. The park is open to walkers at all times, but the summit should only be climbed in daylight. Historic Environment Scotland manages the park, and rangers publish information about closures and conditions.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open to walkers at all times; the summit should only be climbed in daylight |
| Typical visit | 1.5-3 hours |
| Best time | Sunrise, or a clear evening before sunset |
| Getting there | Walk 10 minutes from the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood; Lothian Buses to Holyrood Road or Duddingston. |
| Address | Holyrood Park, Queen's Drive, Edinburgh EH8 8HG |
Location
Holyrood Park, Queen's Drive, Edinburgh EH8 8HG
55.9441, -3.1618 View on map
Highlights
- Summit panorama over Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth
- Salisbury Crags and the Radical Road views
- Dunsapie Loch and the ruins of St Anthony's Chapel
- Sunrise or sunset climbs above the Old Town
- Wild hill scenery a short walk from the Royal Mile
Tips for visiting
- Wear sturdy shoes with grip; the final section is rocky and slippery when wet.
- Climb in daylight only and carry a windproof layer, as the summit is exposed.
- Start from Dunsapie Loch for the shortest ascent of about 45 minutes.
- Go at sunrise or on a weekday for fewer people.
- Take water, as there are no refreshment stops on the hill.
- Check for path closures on the Historic Environment Scotland site before walking the Salisbury Crags routes.
When to visit
Sunrise or a clear evening before sunset gives the best light and fewer people. Avoid wet or windy days for the summit.
Accessibility
The hill has steep, uneven and rocky paths and is not suitable for wheelchairs to the summit. Flatter paths and the Queen's Drive road loop give easier access to parts of the park, including Dunsapie Loch.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to climb Arthur's Seat?
The shortest route from Dunsapie Loch takes about 45 minutes, and the route from Holyrood Road takes about an hour. A full visit with descent and photos usually takes 1.5 to 3 hours.
Is it suitable for kids?
Older children who are used to walking can manage the climb. The final scramble is steep and rocky, so supervision is needed.
Is there an entry charge?
No, Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat are free and open to walkers at all times, though the summit should only be climbed in daylight.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography is allowed throughout the park. The summit and Salisbury Crags are the main viewpoints.