Climbing An Extinct Volcano in Scotland: Arthur’s Seat

If you want sweeping, 360-degree views of Edinburgh’s city line, a relatively easy hike up the hill at Holyrood Park to the highest point - Arthur’s Seat, will give you just this. An ancient volcano sitting 251 meters above sea level, it is the remains of a long-ago extinction (approximately 350 million years ago). On a clear day, the views are incredible.

You don’t have to be an avid hiker to attempt the climb and can stroll at your own pace. We reached the top in just under an hour. There are various different trails that you can take to the top and some are a bit easier than others. We took the one closest to and starting at Holyrood Palace. The park is free to visit and open 24 hours. Be mindful that on a rainier day, the hike could be a little more treacherous due to wet and slippery rocks.

Arthur’s Seat is at the very tail end of the Royal Mile within Holyrood Park. The origin of the name is uncertain but some claim that it goes back to the days of King Arthur and the legend of Camelot. According to lore, Scotland’s king David I from the 12th century was hunting when he encountered a stag. Having just fell of his horse, he was certain he was going to be gored but had a vision of a cross just before the stag unexplicity turned away. Believing this was divine intervention, he founded Holyrood Abbey that day.