Holyrood Park is a large public park beside Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, with Arthur’s Seat at its centre. Walkers can choose a gentle route around St Margaret’s Loch or take the steeper, rocky climb to the summit for views across the city and towards the coast. The park’s hills, lochs and crags make a striking change of scene without leaving Edinburgh. You can also look for birds around the water and visit the ruins of St Anthony’s Chapel. Bring water and shoes suited to uneven paths.
Choose a walk to suit your day
The park combines open grass, lochs, hills and rocky crags, so a visit can be a short waterside stroll or a more demanding walk uphill. St Margaret’s Loch is a gentler option, with birds to watch along the water. For a longer outing, paths lead towards Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags.
The ground changes as you climb. Some sections are steep and rocky, so wear shoes with a good grip and take water. Food facilities inside the park are limited, so plan ahead if you expect to be out for a while.
Arthur’s Seat and the views
Arthur’s Seat is the park’s highest hill and the remains of an ancient volcano. The climb is a popular way to see Edinburgh from above, with views across the city and towards the coast. Reaching the summit takes effort; if you would rather avoid the full ascent, the surrounding slopes and viewpoints still give you a sense of the park’s scale.
Routes around Salisbury Crags offer another way to explore the high ground. The scenery changes between grassy slopes and exposed rock, and the descent can look quite different from the way up. Allow roughly one to two hours for a visit centred on the Arthur’s Seat walk.
Lochs, wildlife and historic remains
The park’s lochs offer a quieter contrast to the exposed hills. St Margaret’s Loch is a good choice for an easier walk and birdwatching. Across the wider park, the landscape includes glens and crags as well as open ground, giving you several options if you want to stay below the summit.
The ruins of St Anthony’s Chapel are another point of interest on the hillside. They add a historic stop to a walk through the park’s natural terrain. Leave time to take in the views and uneven paths rather than treating the park as a quick crossing.
FAQ
How long does it take to visit Holyrood Park?
Allow about one to two hours for a visit focused on walking towards Arthur’s Seat. A shorter stroll around St Margaret’s Loch is an alternative.
Is the walk up Arthur’s Seat difficult?
The route includes steep, rocky sections and takes more effort than a lochside stroll. Wear comfortable shoes; you can enjoy the park without climbing to the summit.
What should I bring to Holyrood Park?
Bring water and shoes suited to uneven, rocky paths. Food facilities in the park are limited.
When is a good time to visit Holyrood Park?
Near sunset is a good time for views over Edinburgh.
