Arthur's Seat (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Arthur's Seat?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Kids can feed ducks and tackle gentler grassy slopes, but the craggy summit lacks fences, paths are slippery in rain, and toilets sit only at the base.
Positives:
- Free and flexible: No entry fee and you can go at your own pace.
- Open play areas: Wide grassy spaces let kids run and explore safely.
- Scenic variety: Combine grassy slopes, rocky outcrops, and water features in one trip.
Challenges:
- Steep sections: Some paths get steep; younger kids may need breaks or a piggyback.
- Unpredictable weather: Wind and rain can pick up quickly at the summit.
- Limited facilities: Toilets and food outlets are only at the park entrance.
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 kids?
- Gentle family-friendly paths suitable for kids aged 3–12
- Panoramic summit views with a fun distance marker stone
- Open grassy areas and lochs for picnics and duck feeding
- Free entry and flexible timing with variable terrains
- Seasonal wildflowers and birdwatching opportunities
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a slow-paced climb, breaks for snacks, and play by the lochs.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Arthur's Seat
Dunsapie Loch family route:
Follow the gentle slopes from Holyrood Palace to Dunsapie Loch.
Tip: Bring a picnic and let kids play by the water.
Summit at Arthur’s Seat:
Climb to the 186 m summit and see the distance stone pointing to landmarks.
Tip: Pack a windbreaker for changing weather on top.
St Margaret’s Loch duck feeding:
Walk to the nearby loch and feed ducks and swans.
Tip: Carry unsalted nuts or birdseed in a sealed bag.
Wildflower spotting on slopes:
Explore grassy hollows for bluebells and daisies in spring.
Tip: Bring a simple field guide or app to identify flowers.
When is the best time to visit Arthur's Seat (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Spring brings wildflowers on the slopes. Summer evenings offer late sunsets. Autumn air is crisp and grass is dry. Paths can get muddy after winter rain.
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Reviews of Arthur's Seat (Edinburgh)
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.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Bus transport for 4 | GBP 12 |
| Picnic snacks | GBP 15 |
| Bottled water | GBP 5 |
| Small souvenir | GBP 10 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 42 |
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
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Arthur's Seat
- Start early: Set off before midday to avoid crowds and afternoon showers.
- Use the Dunsapie route: Choose the gentlest path for children under 12.
- Pack layers: Bring waterproofs and an extra shirt for changing conditions.
- Engage kids: Give them a simple map or checklist of landmarks to find.
Map of Arthur's Seat
Address: Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh EH15 3PY, UK
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