Top attractions

Arthur's seat

Everything you need to know about Edinburgh's iconic landmark

Interesting facts

Where does the name of Arthur’s seat come from?

The origin of the name “Arthur’s Seat” is shrouded in mystery, with two prominent theories. One propose that the name may have derived from the Gaelic words Àrd-na-Said, meaning the “Height of Arrows,” or Àrd-thir Suidhe, signifying a “place on high ground.”

Another intriguing possibility ties the name to the legendary King Arthur, with speculations suggesting it could be the fabled location of Camelot.

 

Is there a seat up there?!
Nope! There is only a toposcope, a circular structure with multiple lines radiating from the center, each line indicates a specific directions​ to notable places.

Arthur’s Seat is one of the most amazing things to see and do in Edinburgh. It offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city and its breathtaking surroundings. This extinct volcano dominates the city skyline; you can even spot it from far away, especially if you’re coming from the south – it looks like a giant lion guarding the city! You can easily reach Arthurs Seat’s base in less than 20 minutes by walking from Waverley Station. It’s part of a huge green space called Holyrood Park. There are two main structures next to each other: Salisbury Crags and Arthur’s Seat. These two prominent formations invite visitors to enjoy rough terrains and peaceful lakes, giving a surprising Highland-like experience in the middle of the capital!

Arthur’s Seat’s is about 250 meters high. If you have a limited time or prefer an easier climb, you can choose to explore Salisbury Crags, which still offers fantastic views of Holyrood Palace, the Scottish Parliament, Calton Hill and the dynamic earth.

The path is not too steep, and it only takes between 30 minutes to an hour. Click on, and expand the photos below to get a glimpse of such views.

For those with more time and energy, I highly recommend going all the way to the top of Arthur’s Seat. The scenery up there is absolutely breathtaking. There are different routes to reach the summit, so you can pick the one that suits your time and fitness level.

The easier but longer route to the top is marked with pink in the guide photos.
There is a shorter but more steep and strenuous route marked below with red. This red route offers an amazing views but be careful as it has a narrow path toward the top.

Mysterious miniature coffins!
In the 19th century, a group of boys accidently discovered 17 tiny coffins in a small cave while climbing Arthur’s seat. No one knows for sure what was the purpose of these coffins. There are 
8 of these coffins currently displayed at the National Museum of Scotland, which has a  documentary about this mystery!

Almost 5K!

The distance around Arthur’s seat and Salisbury Crags base is nearly 5K, so every year in May, there is a Marathon event that happen within this stunning scenery. For more information, head to the Edinburgh Marathon Festival Website.

Geology lovers!

Understand more about Arthur’s Seat Geology through the British Geological Survey website

Time needed

Allow t least two hours if you want to go to the top of Arthur Seat and at least 45 minutes if you want to climb Salisbury Crags

Parking

Holyrood car park: £1 an hour 8:30 am to 5:30 pm (Free during the weekends). No overnight parking. Other available car parks: St Margaret's Loch. Duddingston Loch. Only open to vehicles from Tuesday to Thursday, 9.30am-3pm

Toilets

Attached to the Holyrood Park Education Centre Time varies throught the year. For more info, visit Historic Environment Scotland website

Arthur's Seat

The best views over Edinburgh!