Arthur's Seat, Ancient volcanic summit in Edinburgh, Scotland.
The 251-meter peak stands as the highest point of Holyrood Park, featuring grass-covered slopes and rocky outcrops against Edinburgh's skyline.
The volcanic formation dates back to the early Carboniferous period, between 341 and 335 million years ago, shaped by subsequent glacial movements.
The summit's name connects to King Arthur legends, joining other British peaks that share similar Arthurian naming traditions throughout the country.
Multiple marked trails lead to the summit from Holyrood Palace, with the eastern route past Dunsapie Loch providing the most gradual ascent.
In 1836, five local boys discovered 17 miniature coffins in the caves of Arthur's Seat, remaining an unsolved mystery of Edinburgh.
Location: City of Edinburgh
Elevation above the sea: 251 m
GPS coordinates: 55.94408,-3.16183
Latest update: May 26, 2025 19:11
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.
Holyrood Palace
1.2 km
Royal Commonwealth Pool
894 m
Dynamic Earth
1.1 km
Sheep Heid Inn
861 m
Prestonfield House
880 m
Duddingston Kirk
856 m
St Margaret's Well
864 m
St Leonard's Hall
739 m
Holyrood Distillery
988 m
Edinburgh Synagogue
1.1 km
Edinburgh, 64 St Leonard's Street, The Coalyard House
1.1 km
East Preston Street Burial Ground
1.1 km
Salisbury Green
889 m
Priestfield Parish Church
975 m
Dr Neil's Garden
895 m
Abden House
919 m
Salisbury Crags, Edinburgh
789 m
Edinburgh, 16 Lutton Place, St Peter's Episcopal Church
1.1 km
Holyrood Palace fountain
1.2 km
Manse, 19 Abercorn Road, Edinburgh
1.2 km
Arthur's Seat
167 m
Edinburgh, Holyrood Palace, Yard House
1.1 km
Edinburgh, 31 East Preston Street, Newington Old Burial Ground, Watch Tower
1.1 km
Edinburgh, Holyrood Palace, Queen's Drive, Holyrood Lodge
1.1 km
Edinburgh, 8, 10 The Causeway, Bonnie Prince Charlie's House
1.1 km
St Leonard's Lodge, 23 Holyrood Park Road, Holyrood Park, Edinburgh
676 m
15, 15b And 15c Dalkeith Road, Scottish Widows Fund And Life Assurance Society Head Office, Including Landscaping, Moat And Boun
886 m
South Hall
843 mReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes