Arthur's Seat

Where it is & how to get there

• Start: From the Palace of Holyroodhouse or Dunsapie Loch car park.
• Hike: About 45–60 minutes up from Holyrood; easier from Dunsapie Loch.
• Shoes: Wear proper shoes; paths can be slippery.

The story of Arthur's Seat

Arthur's Seat is the main peak of a volcano that was active about 350 million years ago. It rises 251 metres above sea level in Holyrood Park, a royal park right next to the Old Town.

From the rocky summit you can see the whole of Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth and the hills of Fife. The Salisbury Crags form dramatic cliffs on the park's western edge.

Best time to visit

Tips before you go

• Wear good shoes. It can be windy at the summit.
• Take the gentler route from Dunsapie Loch with children.
• Bring water and a windproof jacket.

What's around Arthur's Seat

• Salisbury CragsCliffs with a walking path.
• Palace of HolyroodhouseAt the foot of the park.
• Dunsapie LochSmall loch with swans.
• Duddingston villageHistoric village below the hill.

Questions travellers ask