Arthur's Seat

A volcano in the city

The hill formed in the early Carboniferous period, more than 330 million years ago. Its spur, Salisbury Crags, is a line of basalt cliffs where the geologist James Hutton studied how molten rock pushed through older sediments, a site still known as Hutton's Section. Historic Environment Scotland manages the park, which has thousands of years of history and archaeology.

Getting to the top

The gentlest ascent is from the east, up the grassy slope above Dunsapie Loch. Routes from the Holyrood side are steeper and busier. Along the way look for the ruins of St Anthony's Chapel, Hunter's Bog and the lochs at Dunsapie and Duddingston. The Radical Road below Salisbury Crags has been closed since a 2018 rockfall, and the High Road is closed to motor traffic. Allow time to stop at the top, because the views are the whole point.

Making a day of it

Go early on a clear morning or towards sunset for the best light, and wear proper footwear because the top is rocky and exposed. Afterwards, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish Parliament and Dynamic Earth sit at the foot of the park, so it is easy to combine the climb with an afternoon of indoor sightseeing.

Highlights

• Extinct volcano about 251 m high
• Panoramic views over Edinburgh and the Forth
• Salisbury Crags and Hutton's Section
• Ruins of St Anthony's Chapel
• Free to walk, any time of year

Good to know

• The easiest route starts from the east above Dunsapie Loch.
• The Radical Road beneath Salisbury Crags has been closed since 2018.
• The High Road through the park is closed to motor traffic.
• A free audio guide is available through the Geotourist app.

Frequently asked questions