Calton Hill
Calton Hill is a smaller, easier climb than Arthur's Seat, but arguably offers Edinburgh's best skyline view, taking in the castle, the Old Town's silhouette, and the Firth of Forth all from one spot, which is why it's a favourite for both photography and simply watching the sunset. It's topped with a cluster of striking monuments, including the unfinished National Monument (modelled on the Parthenon and often called 'Edinburgh's Disgrace' since funding ran out), the Nelson Monument, and the old City Observatory.
The Nelson Monument can be climbed for an even higher vantage point for a small fee, and the Collective gallery, housed in the restored observatory buildings, adds a contemporary art element to what's otherwise a historical and scenic stop. It's a much shorter and gentler walk than Arthur's Seat, taking only about 10-15 minutes to reach the top from street level.
A good sunset spot, and popular enough at that time of day that it's worth arriving a bit early to find a good spot among the monuments.
Calton Hill FAQs
Yes, the hill and its monuments are free and open at all times; only climbing the Nelson Monument tower carries a small fee.
About 10-15 minutes from street level, considerably shorter and easier than the climb up Arthur's Seat.
Funding ran out during its construction in the 1820s, leaving only a partial row of columns modelled on the Parthenon; it's sometimes nicknamed 'Edinburgh's Disgrace' or 'Edinburgh's Folly'.
Yes, it's one of Edinburgh's most popular sunset viewpoints, looking back over the Old Town skyline and castle.
Yes, for a small admission fee, the tower can be climbed for an even higher panoramic view over the city.
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