Arthur's Seat (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Arthur's Seat?
What makes it 90% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can freely choose routes, enjoy sweeping city views, and need no ticket, yet must be fit and avoid the unlit, windy summit after dusk for safety.
Positives:
- Ease of access: Bus 35 and 36 stop near the Queen’s Drive entrance.
- Free entry: There is no charge to enter Holyrood Park or climb the paths.
Challenges:
- Steep sections: Some trails have loose rocks and sharp inclines.
- Unpredictable weather: Morning fog or sudden rain can reduce visibility quickly.
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 solo trip?
- Reach the summit via marked trails suited to solo hikers
- Panoramic views of the Edinburgh skyline and Firth of Forth
- Free entry with flexible self-guided or paid guided options
- Suitable for trail running, photography, or guided exploration
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: This gives time to reach the summit, take photos, and return at a comfortable pace.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Arthur's Seat
Self-guided summit via Hunter’s Bog:
Climb from Queen’s Drive up Hunter’s Bog and Salisbury Crags to the summit.
Tip: Start early to avoid crowds and follow the well-marked stone path.
6 km Holyrood Park loop:
Run or walk the circuit around the park’s perimeter.
Tip: Wear trail shoes and carry water; the route is well-signposted.
City and Firth of Forth photography:
Shoot panoramas from the summit or along Radical Road.
Tip: Use a wide-angle lens and guard against wind-blown lens flare.
Join a small-group guided hike:
Learn geology and local legends on a 2-hour guided ascent.
Tip: Book with Local Eyes Tours to avoid solo supplements and confirm the meeting point.
When is the best time to visit Arthur's Seat (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
In winter, start after sunrise to ensure daylight on the descent; in summer, climb at sunrise for cooler temperatures and softer light.
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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 Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Holyrood Park entry | GBP 0 |
| Water refill | GBP 0 |
| Small-group guided hike | GBP 24 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 24 |
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
- Travel light: Carry only essentials to move faster on uneven terrain.
- Layer clothing: Pack waterproof and windproof layers; conditions change rapidly.
Map of Arthur's Seat
Address: Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh EH15 3PY, UK
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