Generated with sparks and insights from 11 sources
Arthur's Seat
Hill in Scotland
Travel Tips
Hiking Tips
Wear sturdy shoes and check the weather before heading out. 1
Prepare for a 1-2 hour hike and dress warmly even in summer. 2
The climb is moderate and takes around 45 to 60 minutes. 3
The climb takes about 30 minutes on a clear day for stunning 360-degree views. 4
Gravel and dirt hiking trails to the top. Suitable for kids over five. 5
The hike is of medium difficulty and takes around 2 hours, with legends of good luck for university students. 6
Best Time to Visit
Best experienced at sunrise to avoid crowds. 7
Start early to enjoy a quieter walk and catch the sunrise. 8
A fitting end to your trip, climb early in the morning for breathtaking views. 9
Additional Information
Easily reached from the city centre, featuring landmarks like Holyrood Abbey. 10
Check out the recommended post for tips on hiking Arthur’s Seat. 11
Introduction
Geography
- 📍 Location: Arthur's Seat is located in Holyrood Park, Edinburgh, Scotland.
- 🌋 Elevation: The peak stands at 251 meters (823 feet) above sea level.
- 🗺️ Coordinates: 55°56′39″N 3°09′43″W.
- 🏞️ Park Area: Holyrood Park covers 640 acres.
- 🗺️ Proximity: Approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) east of Edinburgh Castle.
<br>
Hiking Routes
- 🚶 Green Route: Start near Holyrood Palace, ascend via the left trailhead.
- 🟢 Trail Fork: Take the left fork to continue to Arthur’s Seat.
- ⏱️ Duration: Takes between 30 to 60 minutes to reach the peak.
- 🟠 Orange Route: Wide, paved trail along the Salisbury Crags.
- 🔴 Red Route: Steep trail down to the Salisbury Crags, combining dirt paths and stone steps.
<br>
Historical Significance
- 🏰 Ancient Fort: Site of a large and well-preserved fort dating back around 2000 years.
- 🛡️ Hill Forts: Four hill forts in the area, including Dunsapie Hill and Samson's Ribs.
- 📜 King Arthur Legend: Some believe the name is linked to King Arthur and Camelot.
- 🔥 Bonfire: Celebratory bonfire lit in 1590 for James VI and Anna of Denmark.
- 🗿 Miniature Coffins: 17 miniature coffins found in 1836, possibly linked to witchcraft or Burke and Hare murders.
<br>
Flora and Fauna
- 🌿 Diverse Flora: The park is home to a wide range of plant species.
- 🦅 Birdlife: Duddingston Loch within the park is rich in birdlife.
- 🪨 Geology: Formed by volcanic activity during the early Carboniferous period.
- 🦋 Special Scientific Interest: Designated as a site of special scientific interest.
- 🦌 Wildlife: Various animal species inhabit the park.
<br>
Visitor Tips
- 🕒 Time Required: Allow two to three hours for your visit.
- 🎟️ Free Entry: Holyrood Park is always open and free to visit.
- 👟 Footwear: Wear good walking shoes for uneven trails.
- 💧 Essentials: Bring water and a snack; a picnic lunch is ideal.
- 🧥 Weather: It is very windy at the top; bring a jacket even in summer.
<br>
<br><br> <div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "EDINBURGH City Centre - ARTHUR'S SEAT - Full Route ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUYfMWvVjYA", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "May 19, 2023", "length": "" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "ARTHURS SEAT hike Edinburgh Walking Tour | Scotland | 4K", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxEuEe06XJI", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "May 22, 2023", "length": "" }</div>
<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "The 3 routes to climb ARTHUR'S SEAT in EDINBURGH", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCo0QJ6RksE&pp=ygUNI3NlYXRzY290bGFuZA%3D%3D", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "Aug 6, 2023", "length": "" }</div>