New Calton Burial Ground, Edinburgh - a snow covered cemetery with a blue sky in the background
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New Calton Burial Ground Edinburgh

4.4
·84 reviews·, United Kingdom

A historic Edinburgh burial ground offering intricate gravestone art and stunning views of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn afternoons

Golden light for photos

CrowdLow
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New Calton Burial Ground, Edinburgh - a snow covered cemetery with a blue sky in the background

New Calton Burial Ground Edinburgh

Best Time

Spring & Autumn afternoons

Golden light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Edinburgh burial ground offering intricate gravestone art and stunning views of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace.

4.4
(84 reviews)

"Discover history carved in stone with breathtaking views of Edinburgh's iconic landmarks."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Reflect

Take your time to explore the winding paths and read the inscriptions. It's a place for quiet contemplation.

📸 Capture the Views

Don't miss the stunning photo opportunities of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Intricate Stone Carvings

Intricate Stone Carvings

Discover the artistry and emotion etched into centuries-old gravestones, telling tales of lives lived.

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace from this elevated, historic site.

Historic Mausoleums

Historic Mausoleums

Marvel at the impressive architecture of grand mausoleums, testaments to Edinburgh's prominent families.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Quiet History

Step away from Edinburgh's bustle into a serene historical landscape. This burial ground offers a unique glimpse into the city's past with intricate stone carvings and a peaceful atmosphere. Allow ample time to wander and absorb the stories etched in stone.

Views and Vistas

Beyond its historical significance, New Calton Burial Ground boasts stunning panoramic views. Capture breathtaking vistas of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace, making it a photographer's delight. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the hilly terrain.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Taphophilia (n.): a love of graveyards. Not out of morbidity, but out of curiosity, reverence, and the quiet pull of history carved in stone. Edinburgh’s graveyards are rich with stories—if you know where to look. #edinburgh #reels #scotland #scottish #visitscotland #travel #reelsinstagram #visitedinburgh #history #explore #graveyard #cemeteriesofinstagram #haunted #spooky #cemeteries
auldedinburgh
283 likes • 6.5K views

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Reflect

Take your time to explore the winding paths and read the inscriptions. It's a place for quiet contemplation. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Don't miss the stunning photo opportunities of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace. Instagram

Historic graveyard with impressive views of Arthur’s seat #edinburghcity #burialground #historiccity #newcaltonburialground #edinburgh #edinburghscotland #scotlandlover #scotlandshots
scotlandlesstravelled
175 likes • 6.8K views
reddit.com

New Carlton Burial Ground in Edinburgh.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The terrain is hilly and paths can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must. Reddit

🕰️ Discover Hidden History

Look for unique features like Edinburgh's first gas street light! TikTok

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Reflect

Take your time to explore the winding paths and read the inscriptions. It's a place for quiet contemplation. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Don't miss the stunning photo opportunities of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace. Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The terrain is hilly and paths can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must. Reddit

🕰️ Discover Hidden History

Look for unique features like Edinburgh's first gas street light! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(84 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise New Calton Burial Ground for its historical depth, intricate gravestone artistry, and breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh landmarks like Arthur's Seat. While some note its unkempt state adds to its antique charm, others appreciate the peaceful escape it offers from the city bustle.

"Beautiful cemetery with old graves. Step inside to escape the hustle and bustle of the surrounding area and take your time viewing the old graves. View of Carlton Hill."

Bram Slijpen

"A really interesting piece of history. This graveyard has some stunning views and is an interesting place to explore and see the little pieces of history that can be found here."

Matt H

"A find as we left Calton Hill towards our destination, this old cemetery boasts some impressive mausoleums and many historic headstones, amidst some brambles (sadly). The unkempt condition leant to its antiquity. Good views of Arthurs Seat and Salisbury Crags"

Graham Tranter

What People Like

Beautiful city views
Intricate gravestone carvings
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be unkempt

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

New Calton Burial Ground is easily accessible on foot from the city center, located on the southern slope of Calton Hill. It's a pleasant walk up from Holyrood Palace or along the Royal Mile. Reddit

Street parking can be limited in the immediate vicinity due to its central location. It's recommended to use public transport or walk if possible. TikTok

Yes, several bus routes stop near Calton Hill, making it convenient to reach via public transport. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

It's conveniently located near other popular Edinburgh sites like Calton Hill, Holyrood Palace, and the Royal Mile, making it easy to incorporate into a walking tour. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, New Calton Burial Ground is generally free to enter and explore. It's an open public space for historical appreciation. Reddit

As an outdoor historical site, it's typically accessible during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific seasonal or event-related closures. TikTok

There is no admission fee to visit New Calton Burial Ground. It's a historical site open for public exploration. Reddit

While generally accessible during daylight, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety and potential access restrictions. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find a variety of historical gravestones, intricate carvings, impressive mausoleums, and beautiful views of Edinburgh landmarks like Arthur's Seat. InstagramReddit

While it retains its historical charm, some areas may appear a bit unkempt, contributing to its antique feel. Reddit

While official guided tours might be infrequent, local history enthusiasts or walking tours often include this site. Check with local tour operators. TikTok

Absolutely! The unique gravestones, architecture, and panoramic views make it a fantastic spot for photography. Instagram

Established in 1817, it served as an overflow for the Old Calton Burial Ground and contains the graves of many notable Edinburgh residents, reflecting the city's rich history. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Look for vantage points offering views of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace, and focus on the detailed inscriptions and unique designs of the gravestones. Instagram

Yes, as long as you are discreet and respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography and focus on the historical and artistic elements. TikTok

Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden light for capturing the gravestones and the cityscape. Reddit

Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and historical sites. It's best to assume they are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

New Calton Burial Ground can be an engaging, albeit somber, educational experience for families. Encourage children to look for interesting shapes on the gravestones or to imagine the lives of the people buried there. The stunning views of Arthur's Seat can also be a great motivator for younger visitors. Remember to emphasize the importance of respect and quiet behavior in a cemetery setting. Reddit

Pro-tip: Combine your visit with a walk up Arthur's Seat for a more active and varied family outing. The accessible paths make it manageable for most ages, and the historical context of the burial ground can spark curiosity about Edinburgh's past.

📸 Photographers & History Buffs

This burial ground is a dream for photographers and history enthusiasts. The intricate carvings, varied mausoleum architecture, and the dramatic backdrop of Arthur's Seat offer endless visual opportunities. Instagram Spend time deciphering inscriptions, noting the different styles of stonework, and capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the monuments. The historical context of the cemetery's establishment and its unique features, like the first gas street light, provide rich material for exploration. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Reflective Visitors

For solo travelers seeking a peaceful and contemplative experience, New Calton Burial Ground is ideal. It offers a quiet escape from the city's hustle, allowing for introspection and a connection with history. Reddit The stunning views provide a beautiful setting for quiet reflection, and the opportunity to wander at your own pace without crowds enhances the personal experience. It's a place to slow down and absorb the atmosphere of old Edinburgh.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Tapestry of History and Views

New Calton Burial Ground, established in 1817, stands as a testament to Edinburgh's historical growth and its need for expanded burial spaces. It was created to alleviate overcrowding in the older Old Calton Burial Ground, reflecting the city's burgeoning population during the 19th century. The cemetery's design cleverly utilizes the hilly terrain, with terraced layouts and winding paths that offer not only a place for remembrance but also stunning vistas across the city. Visitors can explore a diverse array of gravestones and mausoleums, each telling a story of Edinburgh's past residents, from artists and scientists to public officials. Reddit

The unique layout and the sheer volume of historical markers make it a fascinating place for those interested in genealogy, local history, or simply appreciating the artistry of funerary monuments. The inscriptions on the tombstones often reveal poignant details about life expectancy and societal norms of the era, offering a tangible connection to the past. The unkempt condition of some areas, as noted by visitors, adds to its antique and atmospheric charm, making it feel like a step back in time. Reddit

Beyond its historical significance, the burial ground is celebrated for its picturesque setting. It provides breathtaking, unobstructed views of iconic Edinburgh landmarks such as Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace. This combination of historical depth and scenic beauty makes New Calton Burial Ground a compelling destination for both reflection and exploration, offering a peaceful escape from the city's more crowded attractions. Instagram

Unique Features and Local Lore

New Calton Burial Ground holds a few intriguing distinctions that set it apart. One notable feature is the presence of Edinburgh's first gas street light, a historical artifact that, while perhaps unassuming in appearance, marks a significant technological advancement for the city. TikTok This detail often surprises visitors and adds another layer to the historical narrative of the site.

Furthermore, like many historic cemeteries in Edinburgh, New Calton Burial Ground has a connection to the infamous history of body-snatching. The presence of watch-towers in Edinburgh's older cemeteries was a direct response to the illicit trade of corpses for medical research. While not as prominent as in some other locations, the context of such historical practices adds to the atmosphere and intrigue of these resting places. TikTok

The inscriptions on the gravestones themselves are a treasure trove of information. Many visitors are struck by the often tragically short lifespans recorded, offering a stark reminder of the health challenges and mortality rates of past centuries. This personal connection to the past, through the stories etched in stone, is a key reason why many find New Calton Burial Ground so captivating. Reddit

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