This is a great experience for those who like challenges. The hike is pretty tough for a beginner but I guess, with a strong desire to get through it, everyone will make it. I personally really enjoyed it and I'm sure that it was not the last time I got on that hill enjoying the wonderful view and the historic athmosphere. I wish everyone could do it just simply to have the chance to stop and stare at that beautiful country. Never skip that place in Scotland! read more

Don't go to Edinburgh without visiting this spot. Incredible views, you can see a 360 degree view of the entire city. However, this is a hike (or at least the route we took) so don't wear anything fancy and make sure to have sneakers! It can get pretty windy up there too. A gorgeous hike and view not to be missed! read more

Best view of the entire city. Gorgeous 360 views from the top. Takes about 30 min hiking up, not bad. A little steep in places, but there are several well formed paths of varying difficulty. read more

See all

Lovely hike and has great views. Some parts can get pretty steep and rocky so it definitely requires sturdy shoes with good traction and some level of fitness. Dress properly and you should be fine. The view of the city is beautiful and worth the hike up there. Best to go in the morning as there's fewer people. read more

See all

I can thoroughly recommend the walk. It's always 'bracing' no matter what time of year, but the views are incredible. From the Firth, right over the town. Also, if like me, you've had a number of, ahem, refreshments the night before, there is nothing like it to blow the cobwebs away and prepare you for the next night. An especially good idea for anyone performing at the fringe. Even a rite-of-passage. Did you know it was a Volcanic plug? Well, at least that's what my mum told me and she's a geologist. read more

Arthur's Seat - Hiking Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Snow, ice, and slippery slopes... Oh my! I clearly didn't know what I was getting myself into before heading out on the hike. Climbing up was a little challenging at times due to the snow and ice but nothing compared to the trek down. I don't know how others were speeding down without a care in the world. I nearly slipped and fell numerous times. Regardless, the views from the top -in my safe spot away from any edges- made the trek worth it! Have I mentioned I'm deathly afraid of heights? read more

Arthur's Seat - Pano from the top - Hiking Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Wonderful hike with a great view. The trail was slightly crowded at spots but it tolerable.

I opted to run to the top of Arthur's Seat on my final day in Edinburgh from my hotel in New Town, which was quite reasonable to do. There are a number of sections I didn't feel safe to run, but it was entirely feasible to get to the marker at the top in less than 20 minutes from the bottom, moving quickly. The views were spectacular from the top - not to be missed. There was a longer and less steep path that I avoided, and I suspect would have been easier to run. The shorter and steeper path is mostly rock steps and can be quite slippery and very steep. For running, I'd suggest the longer and less steep route! read more

If you enjoy hillwalking in lovely sunny weather then, go for it, it's a great way to see the city

A nice 25-30 min walk up to Arthur's Seat they said, lovely views they said. As my Mrs and I were approaching the 'Main Path' behind the Palace of Holyrood we did wonder why everyone else were dressed in light hiking gear.... So like the clever girl I am I managed to pull my calf muscle 5 mins into my walk due to the many little rocks and slippery uneven steps that are all the way up to Arthur's seat so the whole thing was a bit painful. On the way up via the main path you get many views with a variety of aspects and the view from the top is absolutely stunning and well worth it. It was at my surprise that at the top there was this woman dressed flawlessly and in heels. I hate her. Apparently, down the road a little bit is another path which is far easier so if you're thinking about it - head for that one! read more

Arthur's Seat is healing. Really. My friend and I began our ascent in foul moods - angry at each other, angry at the world - we tackled our literal and figurative mountains together, and when we went down we were better than ever. If you are in the middle of a marital dispute, a friendship on the rocks, or you're mad that your mom read your diary - hop on a plane, boat, truck, or whatever transportation can get you to Arthur's Seat and do yourself (and them) a favor and climb that darn thing! It'll be worth the money - 100%. Oh, plus the views at the top are incredible and it's just an insanely gorgeous place in general. Steeped in history, center of the city, blah blah blah... You know, there's that, too. read more

I hate you and your damn seat, Arthur. It's one hell of a hike of varying difficulties, and honestly, the reward wasn't worth it. Sure, there are some great views, but I honestly thought there'd be something more than a compass with directions to other sites/buildings. Also doesn't help that the top is just filled with tourists with selfie sticks. Maybe I'm just upset that we took the long way up (where the parking lot is). If you go through the park side where the pond is, it's a much easier hike. We did see someone have to be rushed down to an ambulance, so... maybe not that easy. read more

I genuinely can't believe anyone gave this less than 5*s What on EARTH do you want more than a FRICKIN MOUNTAIN looking SHENANIGAN in the middle of EDINBURGH. How can it be anything other than what it is??!?!?!?!! It's ROCK. ITS BRILLIANT Here are some of the things I like about it. 1) IT EXISTS 2) You can WALK and RUN up and around it 3) You can CYCLE around it - it's pretty much dead on 5k around on the road and there is a great loch-loch hill climb challenge - recommended if you're training for anything in particular. 4) IT"S MADE OF ROCK - everyone knows that the rock producing, earth, Planeteer from captain planet was the best. He would LOVE Arthurs Seat 5) THERE IS WILDLIFE. I saw a FLIPPIN' FALCON or some thing up there once and there are always RABBITS bounding about and not giving one single s*** about whether or not you're there. 6) HOLY CRAP ITs JUST AWESOME I feel that I am getting overexcited. If you didn't give Arthurs Seat 5* you're mad. It's like reviewing the moon and saying "3* - not enough cheese and it took ages to train to be an astronaut, and then to become a multi-millionaire because I had to fund my own trip because NASA cancelled the apollo program" THE MOON IS MADE OF ROCK AND IS OF EQUAL AMAZINGNESS TO ARTHURS SEAT. FLIPPIN SWANS - need I say more. (There are no swans on the moon) read more

If my overweight butt can climb this (given several breaks), you can too! The views are amazing from the top and totally worth the climb! And coming from California, it was refreshing to hike up a hill that wasn't a rusty gold chaparral. The grass is so very very green, and there's even old ruins to look at on one side (I think it used to be a church). From that same side you can see the beautiful pond across from Holyrood Palace that has the Queen's swans! We took the long way up, and it was very nice with plenty of big stones to sit on when I needed a break. I think this would be considered a relatively EASY hike for most people. I'm just very out of shape, so I was beaming with pride when I reached the top. Many areas on top to take fabulous views of the city scape. It was a super clear day when we climbed, so we saw everything! Can't believe this is a dormant valcano! read more

Do you want the most beautiful view of Edinburgh - climb Arthur's seat! We got up early, threw a couple power bars in a backpack, and started our journey. We were staying closer to the castle so we had about a 1/2 mile walk to the start of the park, which was a great way to warm up the legs. I workout 5-7x a week and had no trouble with the climb. My significant other does not work out at all and was a wee bit more winded. We did make it to the top and were able to sit down and have a quick breakfast to celebrate. Wear layers because the wind significantly picks up as you climb. I wore my nikes, leggings, a long sleeve shirt, pull over and rain coat and was perfectly comfortable. Although it never rained, the coat blocked the wind nicely. 100% would do again if I made it back to Edinburgh! read more

Huh?! I have no review for Arthur's Seat? Let me rectify that now. A walkers' delight, come rain nor shine you can be assured of a challenge (besides slipping on wet stones). The rewards for climbing this landmark are plentiful: a cardiovascular workout, personal satisfaction and on a good day a brilliant view of Edinburgh and beyond. Take a picnic with you and you'll have the best alfresco meal for sure. (Or you can take a 'Buckie' and veg out. Be aware that it is a windy place on top. Also if you don't fancy walking up the hill you can have a pleasant walk around it. It is a beautiful area. A must when you are visiting Edinburgh read more

Arthur's Seat is a big hill (formerly a volcano) situated in the middle of Holyrood Park. The hike up to the top is full of stunning 360 views of the city, not to mention lush green grass, volcanic rock and cliffs, and golden flowers. This hike is NOT to be missed on a trip to Edinburgh! There are different paths that can take you to the top, with different steepness levels. However, it is a good idea to consult a trail map or ask for advice from those who are coming down from the top, as it's quite easy to end up on a path that takes you to the top of the crags rather than to the actual peak that's Arthur's Seat. Be sure to wear proper clothing for the weather (especially because it can get quite windy near the top) and be prepared for a relatively rocky, steep descent near the top. read more

It dominates the Edinburgh skyline, it looks dramatic as hell to climb and it used to be a volcano - need you have any other excuses for climbing Arthur's Seat? Iconic amongst students and people who have lived in the city all their lives, you can't miss it. It watches over Princes St like a sleeping lion and can be seen like a beacon all around the city if you ever get lost. It's a comforting scene when you look towards the sky and see that, in fact, ytou're not miles away from civilisation - Arthur's Seat is right there! It's a rites of passage - if you visit Edinburgh over a significant period of time or if you stay there, you have to go up. It's worth making the time and the effort to climb up it. I've got to say, I don't even find the ascent that bad, and even if you do it's well worth it for the view you are treated to at the top. A panoramic view of the whole city, from Leith to the tiny streets below, it's wonderful. My aunt used to take picnics up here during the day, and it does make a lovely venue for such outings. If you're careful and go in a large group, the night time view is also very rewarding. Nothing more romantic than seeing a glittering city below your feet. A great escape just off the high street if you're looking to get a bit above the hustle and bustle of the busy centre below. read more

The jewel in Edinburgh's crown, Arthur's Seat is a must for anyone visiting the city and a joy for all who live here. An extinct volcano, it is located in the middle of city, at the bottom of the Royal Mile and is visible from most places around town. You would not expect to see such an ancient rock formation in the middle of a city but here in Edinburgh, it fits in seamlessly and serves as a beacon of Edinburgh's colourful history. There are many walking and cycling paths around, through, over and up Arthur's Seat and I suggest you go exploring but the easiest route is to walk/drive around Queen's Drive to the Loch at the top and then walk the last incline to the summit. Up there you get breathtaking, panoramic views of the city and a real sense of self achievement. It's also worth going "up the Crags" which is the smaller crag structure tacked onto the main volcano and is great for dog walking and for people who may be intimidated by the main hill. I was at a networking event at the Edinburgh Film Festival and a filmmaker from New York said she asked her driver to take her to the countryside and he took her to Arthur's Seat, where, she fell in love with the town. Arthur's Seat the number one thing to do in Edinburgh no matter who you are because no one can get to the top or at least walk around the grounds of Holyrood park without feeling like a child on an adventure. This year I took up jogging and when I started I couldn't make it to the end of my street, now I jog two or three times a week up and around Arthur's Seat and it makes for a lovely run and reminds you that when you live in Edinburgh you take this place for granted. read more

Definitely 5/5 stars. BEAUTIFUL view once you make it to the top (but if you don't get that far, there are plenty of good lookouts on the trail up to the peak). On a clear day you can get a 360 degree view of Edinburgh, Old Town, New Town, Leith, the ocean, etc. from the summit. The hike is a little tougher than expected, but absolutely worth it. One of my favorite, if not my favorite thing to do in Edinburgh. Views on a clear day are spectacular, but even if you manage to make it to the top on a cloudy (dreich) day, the view is still amazing. And it's free. And it's exercise. And it's fun. read more

This has got to be my favourite place in Edinburgh! Edinburgh is my kind of city. A combination of lots of pretty buildings and then this amazing hilly, rocky green thing in the middle of the city. It makes Edinburgh's skyline look even better. I've walked Arthurs Seat, run it (kind of), climbed it and cycled around it. When there's been snow I've sledged down it. I'd recommend a proper sledge though and not the black bin bag and pizza box I used!! I have seen people sledging down it on inflatable couches so you can get inventive. There's so many different paths up it that you'll never get bored and often I like to walk up just a bit of it and then sit and look over the city for its amazing views. Love it :) read more

You could go to the top of the Eiffel Tower, get the lift to the top of the Empire State building, but heck, they have nothing on the satisfaction you get after a hike up Arthur's Seat and see the gorgeous panoramic views of Edinburgh, the best anywhere in the city. Have I hyped it up too much? Maybe. But it's awesome and although it's pretty steep and you need to be kitted out with a Regatta fleece and some sturdy hill walking boots it's actually quite a nice walk. The views and stunning and in summer time it's the perfect spot for a picnic. Beautiful. read more

Even if you're only in Edinburgh for a day, make time for Arthur's Seat. It's a great hike, not too difficult, but a little steep. Bring decent shoes (I climbed it in comfy flat boots and was fine). As a reward for reaching the top, you get a panoramic view of the city and bragging rights about climbing a volcano. read more

See all

I feel like I would have enjoyed this excursion more had we not had a flight to catch in a matter of hours! Also we were a bit unprepared- we didn't have cash for the taxi back and didn't realise that there wouldn't be taxis waiting to take us back. Anyway, the trek up wasn't as bad as it looked from the bottom- it was sunny and the wind was light, so perfect conditions. The view from the top was gorgeous even though there were tons of people up there. We managed to find a taxi after walking through the park a while and it even took credit cards! Props to Edinburgh for this little adventure! read more

Arthur's Seat - Hiking Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

See all

Arthur's Seat is one of the must-dos in the wonderful city of Edinburgh. There are numerous different options for hikes and walks from the crags, to the lochs to the peak of Arthur's seat itself. While it is more physically challenging to go to the top, there are several different ways to reach the peak, all of varying degrees of difficulty. I tend to lean towards going up the steeper steps (facing Pollock Halls) because it takes the least amount of time to reach the top (I am not in top physical shape and it takes me about 20-25 minutes!). While I definitely recommend ascending during the day, especially clear days for a spectacular panorama of the city, one of the most amazing times I hiked around Salisbury Crags was actually at night in about 2 feet of snow. I don't recommend this to anyone who is not properly equipped with proper footwear and warm clothing. I had spikes to put on my hiking boots, a nice warm coat and wind-proof trousers. The city of Edinburgh looks stunning at night under a blanket of snow and it's great exercise climbing up the steep crags starting from the Holyrood Park side. In any event, I highly recommend any sort of walk whether physical or leisurely around Salisbury Crags, Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat during any visit to Edinburgh! read more

Another five star review for Arthur's Seat, the undeniable thing to do in Edinburgh. As a student at Pollock Halls, it was of course a rite of passage to ascend this awesome summit in first year. As part of a team of five, I packed my sleeping bag, tent, nourishment, and rain gear for the trek. We set out at dawn, ready for the biggest challenge of our lives- the seat of the mythical King himself. 30 minutes later, we reached the top. Okay, I exaggerated the difficulty of this hill by a little margin. Arthur's Seat is a beautiful climb, which is easily achievable in 30 minutes. It is a steep climb in some parts, so it's not a simple walk in the park- well, it is a walk in Holyrood Park, but you know what I mean! However, with a moderate level of fitness, you can easily reach the summit and enjoy some gorgeous views over the entire city, over to Fife; West, East, and Midlothian; and across the sea to the east. Unfortunately, one of my favourite landmarks, the Cockenzie Power Station, has recently been demolished, so this part of the East Lothian skyline will no longer greet the disgusted eyes of Edinburgh's tourists. Ah well.... read more

Holy Shit. It's like climbing Everest. While drunk. I need to stop drinking for this climb. Eh, fuck it. read more

If Heather with the Weather tells you the sun is out in Edinburgh, you are likely to round up all your friends, some cider/beer, some munch and head up Arthurs Seat. Us students love an excuse to get up here, it is superbly trendy amongst us. I even hear of people heading up here after nights out, I have never done this because I live on the other side of town and the only thing I want to do after a night out is collapse into bed, but each to their own. Yes there is a bit of a walk to reach the top but it is so worth it. The views are beautiful and reach for miles (on a sunny day). If your mad enough to go up when it is not sunny, then well your just mad. I love the fact that Arthurs Seat is right in the middle of the city, it adds another unique touch to Edinburgh. Great picnic spot in the summer. read more

If there is one thing that will take your breath away its climbing up Arthur's Seat... No, I'm just kidding, its the views! Yes, it may seem torturous and you will end up a bit sweaty, but I assure you - as soon as you get to the top and you look across the city of Edinburgh, all will be forgiven. The view is magnificent, and as one reviewer already pointed out - its free. It's really not that difficult to get up here, so forget the crampons - but a good pair of shoes is a good idea, because while there are stairs carved into the hill, it can still get steep. read more

Arthur's Seat - http://edubuzz.org/blogs/campiep6b/files/2009/04/arthurs_seat_edinburgh.jpg - Hiking Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

This is a must do in Edinburgh! Yes, it may make your legs feel wobbly, but the fact that you climbed all of those steps up to see some beautiful views of Edinburgh - especially during sunset - will provide memories for a lifetime. When we came into Edinburgh on the tram from the airport - it is the easiest way to get into Edinburgh - we saw groups of people walking along a large hill. It looked intriguing and daunting. The hill is big, wide, and imposing! There are several ways to access Arthur's Seat - either taking the long way by zigzagging along the hill or walking steeply up the rocky steps. We chose the rocky steps and while it's faster, it is at steep. I kept on telling myself, I have seen much older and thinner looking men easily climb up a mountain in Korea - so I can conquer this hill! When you reach the top, it is worth going up those few more rocks to touch the marker because then you can really say you did it! Word of advice - the way down can be much easier by following the path, instead of the stairs. read more

I can't believe I've not reviewed Arthur's Seat until now! The first time I came to Scotland when I was 13, I noticed a castle-ey ruin in Holyrood Park. It stuck with me and I *had* to explore that area and the rest of the park. With the park comes Arthur's Seat. The first time I walked it, I managed to choose the most verticle route, in the rain, with my mother who literally spent the entire time cursing. It was good times. When I moved Scotland about 10 years later, I was fortunate enough to live just outside Holyrood park and spent a lot of my time discovering new ways to climb the seat. That's almost the coolest part about it - you can go around it, up via the Salsbury Crags, up a number of routes via the valley, up the far side, any way you please just about. All through the climb and of course when you get to the top, you're greeted with the most amazing views of the city. In my opinion it's a must visit for everyone who comes to Edinburgh - even in poorer weather, it doesn't disappoint. read more

This was a tougher hike than I expected but not THAT difficult. We took the train up from London the night before and stayed in a bed and breakfast in Leith. Someone had suggested we check out Arthur's Seat while we were in Edinburgh, so we left the B&B, determined to find our way on foot. Little did we know that we were over 4 miles away, so it turned into a little bit of an adventure. We eventually got ourselves headed in the right direction, and once we got to the top, we scarcely got a few good pictures before the rain started pouring down on us. We almost killed ourselves trying to get back down (how was this harder than hiking up???), and by the time we got to the bottom, we were completely drenched. It was AMAZING and so worth it though. The view of Edinburgh from the top of Arthur's Seat is one of the most incredible ones I have ever seen. If you're here, you HAVE to go. Just make sure to have the proper gear for the weather and the terrain! read more

Lovely walk with fantastic Edinburgh views. Take a hike around Holyrood PArk, See the lochs and old monestary ruins and enjoy the fantastic view accross the city! read more

Arthur's Seat - Happy dog at Arthur's seat! - Hiking Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

2014: my year with Arthur. I'll be climbing Arthur's Seat every month through 2014, definitely, no room for failure. Never mind that I made the same resolution in 2013 and only managed it the once. Fear not for this time I'm telling people about it - let me know if you fancy joining me. So, January. It was getting dark before I started the ascent, cold and damp under foot - par for the course. Not much activity on the way up, but once at the top a constant flow of folk coming and going. No one was staying too long, just enough to enjoy leaning into the strong wind. I hope future trips will be more pleasant with a reasonable chance of a sunset or two to come - that'll get the star rating up a bit. read more

This hike is a definite MUST DO when you are in Edinburg. This was my favorite part of our time in Edinburg. The trail up is not very difficult, I even saw people walking up in sandals (and even barefoot!) that were not appropriate! I would highly recommend some kind of running shoe/sneakers/kicks or whatever other term they may be. AWESOME VIEWS!!! read more

Decent shoes? Check. Winter coat even though it's summer? Check. Lucozade? Check. You're ready to go up a big hill in the middle of the city and get the best views in all the land. You're ready to be so knackered that you think the pain will never end. You're ready to sit afterwards in one of the surrounding pubs smug that you've done something mega with your day. Arthur's Seat makes me wish every day that I had a dog. I also wish I didn't have an irrational fear of swans because the aggressive demon birds are everywhere! Arrrrghhh why are you letting your kids next to them with bread, have you not heard what they can do? read more

Beautiful hill right in the city centre of Edinburgh. Edinburgh should truly be made a Wonder of the World. Not everyday do you find a capital city with a volcano in the city centre, the beach 20 minutes it by bus, and such quality food and drink places, galleries and tourist attractions. read more

Arthur's Seat is an extinct volcano on the edge of Edinburgh's City Centre overlooking Holyrood Park and is a great urban hike. We walked up from the North West which was a tougher than the way we came down which was the North East side. Wear comfortable trainers/hiking shoes as it can be tough on the way up, there are also a lot of loose stones so be careful on the way down. The views from the top are amazing as you can see Holyrood House, the new Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh Castle and the rest of the city. You can even see the top of the Forth Railway Bridge. A must do/see whilst in Edinburgh! read more

I had a great time hiking up Arthur's Seat. I was really lucky to have hit a sunny morning after two days of miserable cloud and rainy days. The hike itself isn't too bad, could be challenging if you don't take breaks since it does get pretty steep. I'm a casual runner (usually run 5k) and i was sweating and huffing and puffing by the time I got to the peak. I think it took me about 30 mins to get to the top? This included some detour time where i got a bit lost trying to find my way up. Try to stay on the trail if you don't want to get confused like i did :P In terms of difficulty the hike is pretty easy. I hiked up in my chucks and didn't have too much difficulty. I would recommend you wear a proper athletic shoes though, going down could be a little slippery and chucks didn't provide me enough cushion against the rocks. The view from above is so worth it. I took hundreds of pictures throughout the hike and they were all breath taking. You basically get an unobstructed 360 degrees view of Edinburgh. Highly recommended. read more

I always come here with my family, it's a great walk and a good time to hang out. You get a really nice view from the top.