Arthur’s Seat, an ancient extinct volcano, stands as the highest peak among the group of hills in Edinburgh, Scotland, forming most of Holyrood Park. Renowned author Robert Louis Stevenson once described it as “a hill for magnitude, a mountain in virtue of its bold design.” Located just a mile (1.6 km) east of Edinburgh Castle, this iconic hill reaches 250.5 m (822 ft) in height. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond, making it a popular spot for hill walking. The ascent is relatively easy, with the most accessible route being from the east, where a grassy slope rises above Dunsapie Loch. Additionally, Salisbury Crags, a notable spur of the hill, has historically been a rock climbing destination. However, while climbing was once allowed in the South Quarry, Historic Environment Scotland fully restricted access in 2019.
Walk Description
Step 1
Arthur’s Seat, the highest point in Holyrood Park, is a remarkable natural feature shaped by an extinct volcano. Standing at 251 meters, the summit is surprisingly rugged and untamed despite its central location within a bustling city. This walk begins at the car park located just south of the Scottish Parliament on Queen’s Drive. If approaching on foot, turn right from the Parliament building entrance and follow Queen’s Drive to the small roundabout. The car park will be on the left. From here, cross Queen’s Drive and head toward the grassy expanse of Holyrood Park.
Step 2
Avoid taking the ‘Radical Road,’ the diagonal path along the right side of Salisbury Crags, as it remains closed due to rockfall. Instead, follow the main walkway, which veers slightly left, heading behind the Crags. The path ascends through a wide gap between two crag formations. When a narrower trail appears to the left, remain on the main route. Shortly afterward, turn right onto a grassy path climbing steeply toward the upper edge of Salisbury Crags. From this vantage point, enjoy stunning views of Holyrood Palace, the Scottish Parliament, the white roof of Dynamic Earth, and further afield to Leith and the Firth of Forth.
Step 3
Continue along the edge of the escarpment as it ascends gradually. Exercise caution near the edges, as accidents have occurred here. To the east, the summit of Arthur’s Seat can be seen, often silhouetted against the skyline with hikers reaching its peak. The dramatic Salisbury Crags were shaped by glacial erosion, exposing layers of basalt. These formations played a crucial role in early geological studies, particularly through the research of James Hutton, who contributed to the modern understanding of geology. The volcanic activity that shaped Arthur’s Seat and Edinburgh Castle’s rocky foundation dates back approximately 350 million years.
Step 4
Follow the top of the Crags until the end becomes visible. Avoid proceeding to the very end, as the descent there is steep and treacherous. Instead, take a slightly left-leaning path, which can sometimes be muddy, to descend to the lower path. From here, turn right to join the main trail leading up the steep slopes of Arthur’s Seat. Although the climb is short, it is steep, with a rewarding panoramic view at the top. The old, eroded trail is visible in the center of the hillside.
Step 5
Continue on the main path as it curves around the hillside. Eventually, the bear left to reach a dip before the final rocky ascent to the summit. The very top features a trig point and spectacular views of the city and coastline, including the Bass Rock in the distance. Begin your descent by heading eastward, where you will soon find a trail with a metal chain railing. At the base of the steep section, multiple paths branch off in different directions. This route follows the lesser-visited Whinny Hill, so continue straight along the grassy path that gently climbs.
Step 6
Follow the main path along the undulating terrain, enjoying direct views toward Leith. Continue through patches of gorse until the trail slightly veers right and begins descending, with St Margaret’s Loch visible on the left. The path eventually meets Queen’s Drive. Turn left to follow the road past the loch, a favorite spot for feeding ducks, before returning to the starting point at the Holyrood car park.
Miniature Coffins: The Mystery of Arthur’s Seat
One of the most intriguing tales associated with Arthur’s Seat is the discovery of 17 miniature coffins containing hand-carved figurines. In June 1836, a group of boys searching for rabbits stumbled upon a concealed cave or hole on the northeastern face of the hill, covered by slate slabs. Inside, they found three rows of tiny coffins—eight in the first and second rows and one in the third. Each coffin, about 3 to 4 inches long, contained a meticulously crafted miniature figure dressed in handmade clothing, complete with facial expressions.
Eight of these fascinating relics survived and are now displayed at the National Museum of Scotland. The origin and purpose of the coffins remain a mystery, though several theories exist.
One prominent theory links them to the infamous Burke and Hare murders, which occurred just a few years before their discovery. Burke and Hare were notorious for selling bodies to medical schools, depriving victims of a proper burial. Some believe the coffins served as a symbolic memorial to these victims. However, this theory is debated, as only male figures were found in the coffins, while 12 of Burke and Hare’s 17 victims were female. The true purpose of the miniature coffins remains unknown, adding to the mystique surrounding Arthur’s Seat.
Arthur’s Seat continues to be a place of wonder, adventure, and history, attracting visitors from around the world who are drawn to its stunning views and mysterious past.