Watch the Sunrise from Arthur's Seat

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

4.7/5

based on 7 reviews

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Details

Distance

2.4 miles

Elevation Gain

650 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Luan Baruti

Arthur's Seat (an ancient volcano in the middle of Edinburg), is a 45-minute one-way hike to watch an incredible sunrise over an ancient volcano in the middle of Edinburgh! It's an easy ascent to the top

Catch a beautiful sunrise (or sunset) from the top of Arthur's Seat. Although you are in the middle of Scotland's capital, you will feel as if you've reached the Highlands. The surrounding, panoramic views, the awesome silence, and the absence of urbanity, from certain viewpoints, makes this a very special spot.

Start 1.5 hours before sunrise from the Scottish Parliament, located next to Holyrood Park (also called the Queen's Park). If you drove, park in the lot at the corner of Queen's Drive and Horse Wynd. Enter the park and head southwest towards Arthur's Seat, the taller of two peaks in the park. There are many routes leading to the peak so don't worry about taking an exact route - just explore and keep heading towards the peak. Look out for rabbits, along the way!

Once you've reached the top, you will be glad to have brought a windproof jacket. Lean against a rock, enjoy the quiet of dawn, and wait for the warming sun to rise.

You can find a map of the route here.

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Watch the Sunrise from Arthur's Seat Reviews

Margo Schmiederer

Watch the Sunrise from Arthur's Seat

08/07/20

It's an uphill battle getting to Arthur's Seat, but the view is incredible. I would also recommend checking out the surrounding hiking paths that lead around the mountain!

5.0

Natalie F

Watch the Sunrise from Arthur's Seat

07/21/20

Beautiful (and popular) hike. A must do if in Edinburgh. It was sooo windy the day I did it! Had a great time though. Wonderful view. Easy to follow trail.

4.0

Explorer

Madison Sankovitz

Explorer

Watch the Sunrise from Arthur's Seat

05/12/20

Arthur's Seat and the surrounding hills of Holyrood Park are comfortable and peaceful to walk around, with endless places to sit and enjoy the unobstructed (given no clouds) sunrise! After the sunrise, I spent the rest of the morning exploring the park.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Watch the Sunrise from Arthur's Seat

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Watch the Sunrise from Arthur's Seat Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Hike Up Calton Hill

Stroll Victoria Street

Explore Edinburgh Castle

Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh

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