See Edinburgh from two different angles, with a local who knows the best way up.
This 3-hour guided walk takes in the city’s two most rewarding viewpoints. You’ll climb Calton Hill for the monuments and skyline, then head across to Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh’s highest hill, for panoramic views over the city and the Firth of Forth.
I’ve guided this exact route several hundred times, so I know the best paths, the best photo spots and how to keep the pace comfortable for everyone. I take a quieter, scenic route up the hill and share the history, landscape and stories of the places we pass. There’s a toilet stop in the middle, so you can relax and enjoy the walk.
Why this walk
• More than a hill climb: You’ll see Calton Hill’s monuments, Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament as well as the summit.
• Small group: With a maximum of 10, the pace suits the group and there’s room for questions.
• Good for first-time hikers: The walk is at a gentle pace with regular stops, and guests regularly tell me they were surprised by how manageable it felt.
• A local’s route. The way up is chosen for views and a quieter path.
What we’ll do
- Calton Hill (about 40 minutes). We start on Waterloo Place and climb to the hill’s monuments for views over the Old Town, the Castle and the sea.
- Burns Monument and the Scottish Parliament. A short walk down towards Holyrood.
- Holyrood Palace (toilet stop). A comfort break before the main climb.
- Arthur’s Seat (about 1 hour). The climb to the 251m summit, with plenty of stops. At the top you get a full panoramic view of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth.
- Holyrood Park (about 45 minutes). A gentler descent through the park’s 650 acres of crags, lochs and wildlife.
Finish.
The walk ends at the bottom of the Royal Mile, a short walk from cafés, bars and restaurants. Taxis and buses are close by if you’d like to head back.
Is this walk right for you?
A good fit if you:
• want to see the best views in Edinburgh with local stories along the way
• are comfortable walking for around 3 hours on uneven paths
• are travelling alone, as a couple, or in a small group
