Arthur's Seat
On Gingerguide's self-guided Edinburgh audio tour, Arthur's Seat is a stop worth about ~120 min. Stand in front of it, press play for a short narrated story, and put any follow-up question to the built-in AI guide.
- Type nature
- Suggested visit ~120 min
- Edinburgh Edinburgh guide
About Arthur's Seat
An ancient volcano rising 251 metres above Edinburgh, offering panoramic views of the city and the Firth of Forth.
Arthur's Seat is the main peak of a group of hills in Edinburgh that form most of Holyrood Park. The hill is an ancient volcano that last erupted around 340 million years ago during the Carboniferous period. Standing 251 metres above sea level, it is the highest point in Edinburgh and offers spectacular 360-degree views. The climb to the summit takes about 45 minutes from the palace and rewards hikers with views across Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and on clear days, the Highlands in the distance.
Did you know? In 1836, seventeen miniature coffins with carved figures were found hidden on Arthur's Seat, their purpose remains one of Scotland's greatest mysteries.
How much time do you need at Arthur's Seat?
Around ~120 min works well for Arthur's Seat — time to look properly and listen to its story on the spot. Linger if you like; nothing on a self-guided walk is on a clock.
Should you stop at Arthur's Seat?
Yes — Arthur's Seat made the cut as one of 26 places the Gingerguide team researched and narrated across Edinburgh. The story tells you why it is worth the stop, and the AI guide fills in anything you still wonder.
Nearby stops in Edinburgh
Hear the story of Arthur's Seat
Preview the Edinburgh tour free in the Gingerguide app.