Blackford Hill, Hill in Edinburgh, Scotland
Blackford Hill rises to an elevation of 539 feet (164 meters) and provides sweeping views over Edinburgh to the north and the Pentland Hills to the south.
The summit of Blackford Hill contains an ancient hill fort and circular house foundations that are designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic Scotland.
The hill is part of the Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve and serves as a popular recreational area for walkers, runners, and families.
Visitors can access Blackford Hill via walking paths starting near Kings Buildings or by vehicle to the Royal Observatory car park, with trails open year-round.
Agassiz Rock on Blackford Hill provided some of the first evidence of glacial activity in Scotland when Swiss geologist Louis Agassiz studied it in the 1800s.
Location: City of Edinburgh
Elevation above the sea: 164 m
GPS coordinates: 55.92306,-3.19468
Latest update: November 28, 2025 15:21
Edinburgh combines historical landmarks with modern attractions. Edinburgh Castle stands on volcanic rock, while the Royal Mile leads to Holyrood Palace. The city features museums like the National Museum of Scotland and the Scottish National Gallery. Natural sites include Arthur's Seat volcano and the Royal Botanic Garden. Underground passages, historic churches, and cultural venues complete Edinburgh's heritage, from St Giles' Cathedral to the Writers' Museum.
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