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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Holyrood Park Edinburgh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, ancient parkland dominated by Arthur's Seat, offering dramatic landscapes, historic sites, and panoramic city views.
"The breathtaking views from the top made every step worthwhile – the panoramic scenery was truly stunning."
👟 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
Eastern edge of Holyrood Park
Dramatic cliffs offering stunning city vistas and a popular spot for photography and reflection.

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
Central area of Holyrood Park
A tranquil spot perfect for a leisurely stroll, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the park's serene beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer Arthur's Seat
Palace of Holyroodhouse History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 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.
📸 Capture the views
Sunrise & sunset offer magical light. Don't miss panoramas from Arthur's Seat & Salisbury Crags.
⏰ Allow ample time
Hike to Arthur's Seat takes 2-3 hours. Explore the palace & park for a full experience.
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.
💧 Bring plenty of water
Stay hydrated, especially during longer hikes. No facilities on the summit of Arthur's Seat.
📸 Capture the views
Sunrise & sunset offer magical light. Don't miss panoramas from Arthur's Seat & Salisbury Crags.
⏰ Allow ample time
Hike to Arthur's Seat takes 2-3 hours. Explore the palace & park for a full experience.
🚗 Parking advice
Parking is available near the Palace of Holyroodhouse, but can fill up. Consider walking from Old Town.
👑 Palace tickets
Book Palace of Holyroodhouse tickets online in advance to secure your spot.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Holyrood Park itself is free to enter and explore. However, there is an admission fee for the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Arthur's Seat: A Comprehensive Guide
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.
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.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse: A Royal History
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.
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.
Exploring Holyrood Park's Natural Wonders
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.
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.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit