Calton Hill

Calton Hill is located in central Edinburgh and a walk to the top provides one of the best views of the city.  On a clear day you can see the Firth of Forth, Castle Hill, and the Fourth Railway Bridge.  A walk up the hill to admire the monuments and the spectacular view is a must for anyone visiting the city.  Calton Hill can be accessed from a number of different city walking paths or the road with parking available at the top.

One of the most iconic monuments on Calton Hill is the Acropolis, which is actually an unfinished monument. Building on the Acropolis started in 1816 and it was originally called The National Monument.  It was meant to be an exact replica of the Parthenon in Athens and a monument to those who died during the Napoleonic Wars.  Funds ran low and for many years it was known as Edinburgh's shame.  Visitors can walk up the giant steps and admire the two sides that were finished.


The View over the Firth of Forth makes the uphill walk worth your time.  Calton Hill is centrally located in Edinburgh so it gives any visitor a panoramic view of the city.  You can see Princes St, the Royal Mile, and ships navigating on the Firth of Forth.  Looking away from the water gives you a great view of Holyrood Palace, the Royal family's home when visiting Edinburgh.  Arthur's seat, the extinct volcano that towers over Edinburgh, is next door and those seeking a more adventurous walk can climb to the top.

Other monuments on Calton Hill include the upside down telescope monument to Admiral Nelson, the British Admiral who lead the British to victory during the battle of Trafalgar.  The Hill is also home to two observatories.  The Old Observatory House was built in 1792 and the City Observatory which was built in 1818.  The City Observatory is open and includes exhibits of the night sky.  Calton Hill is also a World Heritage Site and has inspired visitors for years  Calton Hill is a great place to spend the day, and if the weather cooperates, you too can be inspired by the spectacular views of this city.

Calton Hill, with Arthur's Seat in the background.