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Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh

4.8

#1 of 6,127 in Parks in United Kingdom

Geologic Formation Nature / Park

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For the easiest possible access to rugged Scottish landscapes from Edinburgh, head to Arthur's Seat. This 250.5 m (822 ft) promontory sits just 1.6 km (1 mi) east of Edinburgh Castle. You can climb any face of the hill, but the easiest route is to approach from the east and walk up the grassy field. At the top, you'll find a 2,000-year-old fort and one of the best possible views of the city. Bring your camera, footwear with decent traction, drinking water, and clothing to protect yourself from the wind at the top. Add Arthur's Seat and other attractions to your Edinburgh trip itinerary using our Edinburgh day trip planner .

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Arthur's Seat Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

20,621 reviews

Google

4.8

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4.8

3 likes

• By 620jessicah

  Wear the proper shoes for a trail climb. Although this is near the city, it is still a dirt trail with loose rock. Took about 30 mins to the top- a great view!  more »

• By 498kathryn

  Well worth the effort! A grand view of the city and beyond! It was spring time and so beautiful to see some wildflowers and flora.  more »

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Google

• By Britain Castellano

  Famous and fun hike that overlooks Edinburgh. A few different ways up means you can make the walk a gradual incline or sheer ascent. I went on a foggy day and so had a hard time getting pictures through the breaks in the clouds. Heavily trafficked by tourists, but that wont take away from the idyllic views.

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• By Patricia Stanca

  Not sure if this is the case, but this feels like the highest point in Edinburgh. To get to the top you need to hike (climb at times), which is fairly easy most of the times, and moderate at times, more so close to the peak. Make sure you have appropriate shoes, especially if it is raining or if it rained recently, as it’s going to be muddy and slippery. The view is nice, though there is not much space on the top, it gets quite busy, and it is also extremely windy, so not so pleasant.

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