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United Kingdom/Things to Do in Edinburgh, solo trip

National Monument of Scotland (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is National Monument of Scotland?

80%Solo-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 80% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can reach the hill in minutes, wander freely among the columns, read the war memorial text, and photograph wide city views without tickets or time limits, so the spot suits independent visits.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 2,322 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free access: No entry fee to explore the columns and hilltop lawns.
  • Quiet mornings: Arrive before 9 AM to avoid tour groups and enjoy calm surroundings.
  • Photography spot: The unfinished ruin frames Old Town rooftops and distant waters.

Challenges:

  • Weather exposure: No shelter from rain or wind at the monument itself.
  • Uneven ground: Watch your step on grass and stone surfaces around the ruin.
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🏖️ Explore National Monument of Scotland with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around National Monument of Scotland. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is National Monument of Scotland?

  • A neoclassical memorial on Calton Hill that comprises an unfinished Doric colonnade modelled on the Parthenon in Athens
  • Conceived in 1816 and built between 1826 and 1829 to commemorate Scottish soldiers and sailors lost in the Napoleonic Wars
  • Halted at twelve sandstone columns when funding expired, leaving a distinctive classical ruin

What is so special about National Monument of Scotland for solo trip?

  1. Explore Scotland’s only half-built Parthenon memorial.
  2. Enjoy free access and wide city panoramas from 45 m above sea level.
  3. Learn Napoleonic Wars history on-site via inscriptions and boards.
  4. Follow a self-guided trail or join pay-what-you-want tours to meet others.
  5. Add a Nelson Monument climb for a full 360° Edinburgh view.

Recommended visit duration: 0.5-1 hour

Why 0.5-1 hour visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to explore the monument, read plaques, and enjoy views without rushing.

(View National Monument of Scotland on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in National Monument of Scotland

Wander the unfinished columns:

Circle the 12 Ionic columns of the half-built Parthenon.

Tip: Walk around each side to frame Edinburgh Castle and the Firth of Forth.

Read the commemorative inscription:

Locate the plaque honoring Scottish soldiers of the Napoleonic Wars.

Tip: Pair with info boards nearby to learn why construction stopped in 1829.

Join a self-guided walking tour:

Use the free City Council ‘Tik Tok Trail’ map to explore Calton Hill.

Tip: Download the map from Edinburgh.gov.uk before you arrive to follow clock-themed markers.

Climb the Nelson Monument:

Ascend 143 steps in Nelson’s tower for a 360° panorama of Edinburgh.

Tip: Buy your £6 ticket online or on-site and check opening hours to avoid closures.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to National Monument of Scotland

  1. Visit at sunrise: Early light brings soft colors and fewer visitors.
  2. Download the trail map: Get the Calton Hill self-guided map to discover nearby monuments.
  3. Combine with Nelson visit: Pair with the free Nelson Monument museum for added history.
🏖️ Tour National Monument of Scotland like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in National Monument of Scotland. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of National Monument of Scotland

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S Gries

S Gries

Aug 2025

A visit to Edinburgh isn't complete without a trip to Calton Hill, and the National Monument is the crown jewel of this stunning location. The walk up is invigorating and offers an ever-expanding panoramic view of the city that is simply unmatched. The monument itself, often called "Scotland's Folly," is a powerful and beautiful sight. The unfinished Parthenon-inspired columns are a tribute to th...

Fabian Gauthier

Fabian Gauthier

Jul 2025

There are multiple reasons to visit this site. For one, it isn’t just the monument, it’s the observatory, the view of Edinburgh, including the Castle and water, and it’s free! If you want to catch a bite, Café Calton offers a variety of options for anytime during the day. Lots to see and do, and all in one spot! It’s a great hike up as well.

Fikha Rahmadina

Fikha Rahmadina

Jul 2025

The National Monument of Scotland, perched on Calton Hill in Edinburgh, is a striking and serene place, especially if you visit early in the morning or on a quiet weekday. Inspired by the Parthenon in Athens, its grand, unfinished columns rise against the open sky, creating a powerful and poetic silhouette. Surrounded by wide open space and panoramic views of the city, the Firth of Forth, and eve...

Zhang Bo

Zhang Bo

Jul 2025

A nice and peaceful spot with great panoramic views of Edinburgh. It’s a short but steep walk to the top, but definitely worth it, especially on a clear day. The monument itself is impressive, and the surrounding area is perfect for a little break or picnic. Free to visit and no waiting time.

Ajinkya Jagtap

Ajinkya Jagtap

Jun 2025

Great place to spend your evening here. You can have a perfect view of Edinburgh city and North Sea from the top of the hill. It is a little bit difficult to go with a Stroller or Wheelchair. Edinburgh is a coastal place, so obviously it is always windy.

When is the best time to visit National Monument of Scotland (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?

Visit around April 30 to watch the Beltane Fire Festival’s fire performances from the monument.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Edinburgh on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Nelson Monument climbGBP 6
Coffee at Collective CaféGBP 4.5
Total EstimatedGBP 10.5

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 National Monument of Scotland

Address: Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH7 5AA, UK

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Looking for other Things to Do besides National Monument of Scotland (Edinburgh)?

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About National Monument of Scotland

Opening Hours

Monday:Open 24 hours
Tuesday:Open 24 hours
Wednesday:Open 24 hours
Thursday:Open 24 hours
Friday:Open 24 hours
Saturday:Open 24 hours
Sunday:Open 24 hours

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

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