Arthur's Seat (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Arthur's Seat?
What makes it 59% Baby-Friendly: Parents may push prams around the base loop and use the free baby-change near Holyrood Palace, yet rough summit trails block strollers and there is no dedicated nursing room on the hill.
Positives:
- Pushchair-friendly routes: Flat, well-paved paths around the lower slopes suit most prams and pushchairs.
- Free baby-care facilities: Hourly-cleaned changing tables and grab-rail toilets at the Education Centre.
Challenges:
- Steep terrain above Loch: Trails beyond Salisbury Crags become uneven; avoid with a pushchair.
- No covered shelter: No rain or sun shelters on the trail; pack weather protection for the baby.
What is Arthur's Seat?
- A volcanic hill and extinct volcano rising to 251 meters above sea level in Holyrood Park, Edinburgh
- Composed of ancient basalt and sedimentary rock formations dating back over 350 million years, highlighted by the Salisbury Crags
- A defining natural landmark that shapes Edinburgh’s skyline with rugged contours and open moorland slopes
What is so special about Arthur's Seat for with baby?
- Gentle paved loop ideal for pushchairs around Dunsapie Loch
- Picnic-ready grassy areas with bench seating near baby facilities
- Free changing tables and accessible toilets at Holyrood Park Education Centre
- Short climbs avoid steep or rocky terrain unsuitable for prams
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows a gentle stroller-friendly loop, picnic breaks, and baby-care stops without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Arthur's Seat
Stroller-friendly loop to Dunsapie Loch:
Follow the paved Queen’s Drive route from Holyrood Palace around Dunsapie Loch.
Tip: Begin at the Education Centre, keep to the flat path, and pause at benches near the loch for baby breaks.
Picnic on grassy fields:
Spread out on the open lawn beside Dunsapie Loch.
Tip: Bring a waterproof blanket and easy-to-grab snacks; benches are by the Education Centre toilets.
Use baby-changing facilities:
Visit Holyrood Park Education Centre for free changing tables and toilets.
Tip: Check seasonal opening hours online to match your feeding and nappy-change needs.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Arthur's Seat
- Arrive early: Beat midday crowds and secure a shaded bench by the loch for breaks.
- Verify centre hours: Check Historic Environment Scotland website before your visit for updated times.
Reviews of Arthur's Seat
jd
Ahhh what a beauty. I love her. So pretty. So stunning. She’s like a Scottish Pride Rock. Pro tip is to follow the road all the way around. The views of her backside are even better.
Peter Walker
Great little hike to the top. Accessible for most able-bodied people but not wheelchairs or buggies etc. Swarms of insects at the top and can get quite crowded. Some loose scree etc.to scramble up for a quicker route but a reasonable, less steep footpath also gets you to the top for wonderful views over city, fields and the bay.
Z Rose
Be aware that it gets very windy at the top, no matter what the weather is like at the bottom. The trail is straightforward to follow and can be done in trainers -hiking shoes aren’t necessary. The views are absolutely stunning and make it well worth going for sunrise or sunset.
Kelly Chin
The entire hike up and down took around 2 hours including spending time taking photos and a few breaks in between. It's an advanced beginner hike and shoes with a good grip are recommended. I did this in my regular trainers so it's not entirely impossible, just that it gets quite rocky especially at the last stretch to the top. It can also get quite windy too. The view was so worth it, a must for ...
Matt H
A fairly easy hike with stunning views across Edinburgh. When it is wet it can be incredibly slippy when climbing up but if you take care it is a really enjoyable walk.
When is the best time to visit Arthur's Seat (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Summer: Education Centre open until 19:00. Winter: closes by 15:00—plan diaper changes early. Always dress baby in layers; wind and rain can arrive quickly.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Bus fares for 2 adults round-trip | GBP 7.2 |
| Snack or coffee | GBP 6 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 13.2 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Arthur's Seat
Address: Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh EH15 3PY, UK
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