Holyrood Park, Edinburgh - One beautiful summer day in Scotland
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Holyrood Park Edinburgh

4.8
·13k reviews·, United Kingdom

A vast, ancient parkland dominated by Arthur's Seat, offering dramatic landscapes, historic sites, and panoramic city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, golden light

CrowdLow
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Holyrood Park, Edinburgh - One beautiful summer day in Scotland

Holyrood Park Edinburgh

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, golden light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast, ancient parkland dominated by Arthur's Seat, offering dramatic landscapes, historic sites, and panoramic city views.

4.8
(13k reviews)

"The breathtaking views from the top made every step worthwhile – the panoramic scenery was truly stunning."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes

Paths can be steep & slippery. Good footwear is essential for Arthur's Seat & Salisbury Crags.

💧 Bring plenty of water

Stay hydrated, especially during longer hikes. No facilities on the summit of Arthur's Seat.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Arthur's Seat

Arthur's Seat

Summit of the ancient volcano

Hike to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh and beyond. A true natural icon.

Salisbury Crags

Salisbury Crags

Eastern edge of Holyrood Park

Dramatic cliffs offering stunning city vistas and a popular spot for photography and reflection.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Foot of the Royal Mile

Explore the historic royal residence, including Mary, Queen of Scots' chambers and the ruins of Holyrood Abbey.

St. Margaret's Loch

St. Margaret's Loch

Central area of Holyrood Park

A tranquil spot perfect for a leisurely stroll, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the park's serene beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Conquer Arthur's Seat

The iconic Arthur's Seat is a must-hike in Holyrood Park. Wear sturdy shoes, as paths can be steep and slippery, especially after rain. Allow 2-3 hours for the round trip, and bring water. Early mornings or late afternoons offer fewer crowds and beautiful light for photos.

Palace of Holyroodhouse History

Adjacent to the park, the Palace of Holyroodhouse holds centuries of Scottish royal history, including Mary, Queen of Scots' dramatic life. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment and explore the historic apartments.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, golden light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Sunset views, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

👀👀👀 #edinburgh #edinburghhistory #scottishhistory #historyofscotland #thetudors #tudorhistory #holyroodpalace
@history_alice
357.7K likes • 4M views

👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes

Paths can be steep & slippery. Good footwear is essential for Arthur's Seat & Salisbury Crags. InstagramReddit

💧 Bring plenty of water

Stay hydrated, especially during longer hikes. No facilities on the summit of Arthur's Seat. Instagram

Hidden behind a curtain and unknown to most visitors are the ORIGINAL stairs to Mary Queen of Scots bedchamber at the palace of Holyrood House in Edinburgh Scotland. I can’t tell you guys what I would give to have that glass panel removed and stand on those steps, just as she and so many other prominent figures did all those years ago! These steps have since been sealed of P.s you’re not allowed t...
@byjacklynn
357.1K likes • 3.7M views
One of our favourite views in Edinburgh 👇 . . 📍Salisbury Crags, Holyrood Park 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 . 👉SHARING more 'DON'T MISS' every Monday (episode #7). . . . #Edinburgh #holyroodpark #europevacations #travelinspiration #hiddengems #EdinburghCastle #travelguides
2cupsoftravel
99 likes • 1.9K views

📸 Capture the views

Sunrise & sunset offer magical light. Don't miss panoramas from Arthur's Seat & Salisbury Crags. Instagram+1

⏰ Allow ample time

Hike to Arthur's Seat takes 2-3 hours. Explore the palace & park for a full experience. Instagram

📍Saint Margaret’s Loch , Edinburgh 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 📌Things to Do in Holyrood Park: • Hike Arthur’s Seat for stunning views ⛰️ • Stroll around St. Margaret’s Loch 🦢 • Explore Salisbury Crags and Radical Road • Visit the ruins of St. Anthony’s Chapel 🏰 • Enjoy wildlife spotting and scenic walks 🌿 • Perfect for photography and adventure 📸 . . Follow For More 🫶🏻🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 . . #scotland #scotlandexplore #s...
themeenasinuk
0 likes • 9.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes

Paths can be steep & slippery. Good footwear is essential for Arthur's Seat & Salisbury Crags. InstagramReddit

💧 Bring plenty of water

Stay hydrated, especially during longer hikes. No facilities on the summit of Arthur's Seat. Instagram

📸 Capture the views

Sunrise & sunset offer magical light. Don't miss panoramas from Arthur's Seat & Salisbury Crags. Instagram+1

⏰ Allow ample time

Hike to Arthur's Seat takes 2-3 hours. Explore the palace & park for a full experience. Instagram

🚗 Parking advice

Parking is available near the Palace of Holyroodhouse, but can fill up. Consider walking from Old Town. Reddit

👑 Palace tickets

Book Palace of Holyroodhouse tickets online in advance to secure your spot. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(13k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Holyrood Park is lauded as a stunning natural escape within Edinburgh, offering breathtaking views from Arthur's Seat and Salisbury Crags. Visitors appreciate the wild, open feel and the mix of hiking and historical exploration with the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It's a highly recommended spot for nature lovers and those seeking panoramic city perspectives.

"Holyrood Park in Edinburgh is a stunning natural escape right in the heart of the city. Spanning hills, lochs, and rugged cliffs, it offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure. The park is home to Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano that rewards hikers with panoramic views of Edinburgh.

Whether you're walking around St. Margaret’s Loch, exploring the Salisbury Crags, or just enjoying a peaceful picnic, the park feels refreshingly wild and open. It’s great for hikers, photographers, or anyone needing a break from the city buzz. A must-visit for nature lovers and those wanting to explore Edinburgh’s outdoors."

Muhammad Rahat Khan

"After parking near the pond, we took the side route uphill, which proved to be a steep but quick path to the St. Anthony Chapel. From there, we continued our ascent towards Arthur's Seat, but the climb was challenging due to the slippery pebbles and rocky terrain. It required careful footing to navigate the path safely. Despite the exertion, the breathtaking views from the top made every step worthwhile – the panoramic scenery was truly stunning.
For those who do not want to climb all the way up, the pond has lost of seagulls, ducks and pigeon for entertainment!"

Sheue Lin Ng

"Holyrood Park is absolutely worth the hike — the views from the top are stunning and give you a whole new perspective on Edinburgh.

The walk up can be a bit tough, especially if you're not used to hills, so wear good shoes and bring water.

It’s a bit of a workout, but the payoff is more than worth it. Peaceful, scenic, and a perfect escape right in the middle of the city."

Serdar Arslan

What People Like

Spectacular panoramic views
Natural beauty and escape
Historical significance of the Palace

What People Dislike

Steep and slippery paths
Crowds on Arthur's Seat

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Holyrood Park is easily accessible from Edinburgh's Old Town. You can walk from the Royal Mile in about 15-20 minutes. Buses also run frequently along the Royal Mile towards Holyrood. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available near the Palace of Holyroodhouse, particularly along Queen's Drive. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends. Some Redditors suggest it's safer to park elsewhere and walk or take public transport. Reddit

Queen's Drive runs through Holyrood Park, offering scenic views and access to various points. It's a popular route for cyclists and drivers alike, though it can be closed for events or maintenance. Instagram

While some taxi drivers may advise caution, many locals and visitors report Holyrood Park is generally safe at night, especially along well-lit paths. It's advisable to stick to main routes and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

Arthur's Seat is within Holyrood Park. You can access the trails from various points, including near the Palace of Holyroodhouse or along Queen's Drive. The walk from the city center is straightforward. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Holyrood Park itself is free to enter and explore. However, there is an admission fee for the Palace of Holyroodhouse. TikTok

Holyrood Park is generally open 24/7, though specific access points or roads like Queen's Drive may have restricted hours or closures for events. The Palace of Holyroodhouse has set opening times, which vary seasonally. TikTok

Admission fees for the Palace of Holyroodhouse vary for adults, concessions, and children. It's best to check the official Historic Environment Scotland website for the most up-to-date pricing. TikTok

Yes, booking tickets for the Palace of Holyroodhouse online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. TikTok

While there aren't official guided tours of the park itself, you can join tours of the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Many visitors also create their own self-guided tours using online resources or apps. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Holyrood Park offers much more! You can explore Salisbury Crags for stunning city views, stroll around St. Margaret's Loch, visit the ruins of St. Anthony's Chapel, and enjoy wildlife spotting. Instagram+1

The hike to the summit of Arthur's Seat typically takes 2-3 hours for a round trip, depending on your pace and the route you take. Instagram

Iconic photo spots include the panoramic views from Arthur's Seat summit, the dramatic Salisbury Crags, St. Margaret's Loch with Arthur's Seat in the background, and the historic Palace of Holyroodhouse. Instagram+1

Restrooms are available near the Palace of Holyroodhouse and at the Holyrood Visitor Centre. There are no cafes within the park itself, so it's advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks. Instagram

Yes, Holyrood Park is great for families. While Arthur's Seat can be challenging, there are gentler walking paths around St. Margaret's Loch and flatter areas suitable for younger children. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or cafes located directly within Holyrood Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. Instagram

The area around the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the bottom of the Royal Mile offers several cafes and restaurants. You can also find numerous dining options a short walk away in Edinburgh's Old Town. TikTok

Absolutely! Holyrood Park is a fantastic spot for a picnic. Find a scenic spot, especially around St. Margaret's Loch, and enjoy your meal with a view. Instagram

You'll find a range of options from traditional Scottish pubs to international cuisine in the vicinity of Holyrood Park. Many places offer quick bites, casual dining, and more formal meals. TikTok

Yes, the Royal Mile and surrounding streets have many historic pubs offering local ales and traditional pub fare. Some popular choices include The Sheep Heid Inn (though a bit further out) and pubs along the Royal Mile. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset provide the most dramatic light and fewer crowds. Golden hour offers beautiful soft light for capturing the landscape and city views. Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and city panoramas. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed throughout Holyrood Park for personal use. However, commercial photography may require permits. Inside the Palace of Holyroodhouse, photography rules are more restrictive, especially in certain rooms. TikTok

Arthur's Seat summit, Salisbury Crags, St. Margaret's Loch, the ruins of St. Anthony's Chapel, and views looking back towards Edinburgh Castle from the northern crags are all highly photogenic. Instagram+1

Drone usage in Holyrood Park is generally restricted due to its proximity to the city and potential impact on wildlife and visitors. It's advisable to check with Historic Environment Scotland for specific regulations. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Holyrood Park is a fantastic destination for families. While the hike up Arthur's Seat can be challenging for very young children, there are plenty of gentler options. A walk around St. Margaret's Loch is perfect for little legs, offering opportunities to see ducks and seagulls. Instagram The lower paths around Salisbury Crags are also manageable and provide great views without extreme exertion. Pack snacks and drinks, and consider a picnic to make the most of the open spaces. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Holyrood Park is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as the park itself is free to enter. Hiking Arthur's Seat and exploring the natural landscape costs nothing. The main expense would be visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse, but even that offers significant historical value for the admission fee. TikTok Bringing your own food for a picnic is a great way to save money on dining. Instagram

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Holyrood Park a dream location. The dramatic landscapes of Arthur's Seat and Salisbury Crags, combined with the city skyline, offer endless shooting opportunities. Aim for sunrise or sunset for the best light, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. The Palace of Holyroodhouse also provides a historic backdrop. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hiking Arthur's Seat: A Comprehensive Guide

Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano, is the crown jewel of Holyrood Park and a must-do for any visitor. The hike offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Scotland's rugged landscape without leaving the city. Several paths lead to the summit, with the most popular starting from near the Palace of Holyroodhouse or along Queen's Drive. The ascent can be steep and challenging, particularly the final approach, so wearing appropriate footwear is crucial. Instagram

Allow at least 2-3 hours for the round trip, including time to soak in the breathtaking 360-degree views of Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding countryside. The panoramic vistas from the top are truly spectacular and make the effort worthwhile. Remember to bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days, as there are no facilities once you're on the main ascent. Instagram

For a less strenuous experience, consider exploring the lower slopes or opting for shorter walks around St. Margaret's Loch or to the ruins of St. Anthony's Chapel. These areas still offer beautiful scenery and a sense of escape from the urban environment. Instagram

The Palace of Holyroodhouse: A Royal History

Nestled at the foot of the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland and a site steeped in history. It's most famously associated with Mary, Queen of Scots, who lived here in the 16th century. Visitors can explore her historic apartments, including her bedchamber and the supper room where her private secretary, David Rizzio, was murdered. TikTok+1

The palace also showcases the State Apartments, used for royal ceremonies and entertaining, and the ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey, which stand adjacent to the palace. The sheer weight of history within these walls is palpable, offering a fascinating glimpse into Scotland's royal past. TikTok

Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, as the palace is a popular attraction. Allow ample time to explore the palace and its grounds, and consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into its rich and often dramatic history. TikTok

Exploring Holyrood Park's Natural Wonders

Beyond Arthur's Seat, Holyrood Park is a diverse natural landscape offering a variety of experiences. The Salisbury Crags, a series of dramatic cliffs, provide stunning viewpoints overlooking the city and are a popular spot for photographers and walkers. The Radical Road, which runs along the base of the crags, offers a scenic and relatively easy walk. Instagram+1

St. Margaret's Loch is a tranquil oasis within the park, perfect for a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment. The loch often reflects Arthur's Seat, creating beautiful photographic opportunities. You can also find the ruins of St. Anthony's Chapel perched on the hillside, adding a touch of ancient mystique to the landscape. Instagram

The park is a haven for wildlife, with various bird species often seen around the loch and surrounding grasslands. It's an ideal location for a family outing, a romantic walk, or a solo escape into nature, all within easy reach of Edinburgh's city center. Instagram

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