You can get very good views of Edinburgh and surrounding areas from here, there is a tower called Nelsons tower which you can for a fee get to clim to the top, there is also the unfinished coloums which you can see when you are at Calton Hill which you do not have to pay to see. read more

My hope is that when you go here it's on a not so rainy day. It is quite a thing to see and the views are exceptional and much better when not foggy and rainy I'm sure. read more

As a tourist making my first trip to Scotland, everyone recommened that I visit Edinburgh. I certainly was not disappointed with that decision. It is a beautiful, historic city with many things to see and do within close proximity of Waverly Station. I knew about Edinburgh Castle, but what surprised me was how amazing the Calton Hill area was. Personally, I think this was the best part of my time in Scotland. The Calton Hill area is located fairly close to Edinburgh Waverly Station and is easily accessed on foot. It is also pretty close to other attractions like Holyroodhouse. As you approach the hill you can see some of the tall monuments which overlook the city. I would recommened stopping off at the Calton Cemetery as well which is a trememdous photo opportunity. The monuments are fantastic, each unique in their own way. But, to me, what makes the hill special is not only the monuments but the views behind them. You can see across the city below to the castle and beyond... And also all the way to sea. There was a great breeze the day I was there--the air so much fresher than I had experienced hours earlier in London. Pros: Easy access from Waverly Station, free of charge, spectacular views, several monuments Cons: Waverly is 5 hours from London--so plan accordingly, peak times seems to be crowded read more

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Checking out Calton Hill was one of the best things I did on my quick trip to Edinburgh. We went just before sunset, and the view was gorgeous! We got a little bit of the background of the place from the hop on, hop off tour, so that really added to the experience. It's only a short 5 minute walk up the hill, and you get a view of the entire city to the ocean. Best of all, you come back home with stunning photos. read more

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Definitely one of my favourite places in Edinburgh!! It has everything you could ever want - amazing views of the city, a historical landmark and burns off some calories on the way up. WOOHOO! This is also one of the best places to come at New Year. The atmosphere is totally electric and it's not really busy, so you can see the fireworks without being hustled and bustled into total strangers. Although this year it was quite frosty - bring a scarf if you're considering it. Just writing about Calton Hill has made me want to go up. so I'm off! see ya later aligator read more

Calton Hill - Courtesy of Website - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

You'll all have seen Calton Hill at some point during your time in Edinburgh and like me you might feel the urge to go up and see what exactly is on this hill. Once you reach the top the first impression is likely to be that you are reminded of a badly organised mantelpiece peppered with irrelevant ornaments that have been picked up on the owner's travels - some of them aren't even complete. It does form a rather bizarre combination of landmarks. What does redeem it a little is the view on offer. It does offer the very best view of Holyrood and the more historic parts of town, although there are better view of the whole town, most notably on the Royal Observatory hill. read more

Calton Hill - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Calton Hill, alongside Arthur's Seat and the Crags, is an absolute must on a rare sunny day in our beautiful city. Located just east of Princes Street, it offers an ideal location for a bit of gentle strolling amongst pleasant surroundings away from the bustle of the city centre. Once you have ascended the stairs, you are welcomed with a variety of different monuments that are all notably unique in design and character. The information boards around the site offer interesting back stories without going in to too much detail, keeping the lay person engaged. There is even a small treasure hunt activity on the central information board to keep the children amused (which I must admit I had great fun in completing). There is also foot paths offering walks with beautiful views of both the Forth and of the city centre. All in all, a site worthy of a visit whether you're a visitor or a resident due to the tranquillity and the beautiful views. read more

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Excellent place to visit in the very centre of Edinburgh. Calton Hill is home to the stereotypical beautiful view of the city, almost straight down onto Princes Street, with the Balmoral Hotel, the Scott Monument, and the castle all visible. There are also nice views of Leith, the sea, Fife, and Arthur's Seat as well. On the hill, there are plenty of attractions to keep you busy as well, with the unfinished National Monument, a rip-off of the Parthenon in Athens; the City Observatory; the Nelson Monument; and a free art gallery as well. Everything is worth checking out. As a little tip, Calton Hill is an excellent place to hang out when there are fireworks in the city, for example on November 5th or at the end of the Festival. read more

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It has taken me the best part of two years to climb up Calton Hill. I don't do hills but fireworks for free was all it took to lure me up. Despite battling the remains of a chest infection, its not a strenuous climb and it is worth it for the 360 views over Edinburgh and beyond. It is pretty at night, even without the fireworks, a vision of twinkling lights and views beyond Edinburgh. Shadowed on the top of the hill, the columns provide a stunning outline against the night sky. For watching fireworks, its great too. Yes there are a few tree's that require making the acquaintance of a chainsaw so you can see the lower level fireworks (only joking!), so bring the picnic blanket, some munchies, whilst avoiding the trees and you are all set for a free show. Like many exposed areas in Edinburgh, it gets cold and quickly, so wrap up warm and enjoy the views. So, even though I don't DO hills or climbs, I'll come back in the daylight, and no doubt will be back for more fireworks too :) read more

Calton Hill - Fireworks - view from Calton Hill - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Fantastic view of Princes Street, and most of Edinburgh from up here. Beautiful in the sunset too.

This is a wonderful opportunity to combine the the physical activity with cultural development. The way up is not that difficult for an experienced hiker, but if you are a beginner, then take your time, bring some water with you and be patient. The view from the hill is worth all those efforts. You will see Edinburgh rising under your sight. Besides, all those monuments are marvelous. There is so much history in Scotland, and it is so, unexpectedly interesting :D Make sure you check out this place, otherwise you will regret it sooner or later. read more

One of the highlights of Edinburgh. Amazing views of old town and near the end of the day with the sunset it's magical. Will be crowded though most likely, but there's plenty of space to be mostly spread out so overcrowding shouldn't be an issue. read more

Calton Hill - Silhouette of the monument at sunset - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Really a great place to visit! It's essentially straddling Old and New Towns, and commands terrific views of the entire city from close up. Arthur's Seat is higher, but the views are more distant than they are from here. Nice walk up the hill, it's a bit steep, but shouldn't be a problem for most. Lots of additional interesting sights to see there on the top of Calton Hill as well. Definitely not to be missed. Seemed to attract a crowd of folks who were just sitting/laying enjoying the views and the spectacular weather. read more

This is a great location for views across the city. Sitting at the east end of Princes Street it has the traditional view looking along the city's main thoroughfare past the Balmoral Hotel and on to the Scott Monument and Castle. For an extra special view had up the Nelson Monument and get an even higher view-point. read more

Calton Hill - The view from Calton Hill on the night of the Virgin Money Fireworks Concert #FringeSurvival - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

This park is on top of a rather large hill. Being rather large myself I was worried about having a heart attack getting to the top, but the journey was worth it. I've never seen better views of a city from a park. And the park has some really cool monuments and buildings in it too! By far this was my favorite place in Edinburgh. It's peaceful, beautiful, historic, and offers breathtaking views. read more

A lot of people will tell you that Calton Hill is like a junior version of Arthur's Seat, for pregnant women and people incapable of climbing the Seat. This is false. Calton Hill is a location worth visiting in its own right. It is the location of David Hume's tomb, the old Royal High School, Robert Burn's Monument, the City Observatory, and the National Monument, are just among a litany of things to see, not to mention the beautiful city views encompassing the hill. The National Monument was a particular favorite spot of mine to take a blanket and a good book to read. It was started as a replica of the Parthenon. But construction was halted after only a few years. What's left is a structure resembling something of a ruin. Still breathtaking in its own regard. You also have to check out the Beltane Fire Festival. It is basically celebrates Scotland's Gaelic heritage through fire dancing. Very interesting stuff. Be forewarned, though, there is usually some nudity involved in the performances. read more

If you don't want to make the hike up Arthur seat, Calton hill is the next best thing for sweeping views of Edinburgh!!! To get up there you take some stairs ( but not difficult) plus a steep pathway and you are there! We went up the Nelson monument which was a 5 pound charge per person. Believe me it is totally worth it! You climb some narrow stairs for a bit and come to a blue door. The blue door is quite narrow. At the top, you will have sweeping views of Edinburgh! Hopefully it's a nice clear day for you! read more

With the trip up Arthur's Seat seeming just a bit too strenuous the other week, I decided upon Calton Hill for a panoramic view of the city. Given the fact I've never lived more than 50 miles away from Edinburgh City Centre, it's appalling that I'd never been up before, but I'll definitely be back. It houses the eerie National Monument, the Royal Observatory and some tower I can't remember the name of, but the real moneyshot up here i the views. On a sunny day, it really is absolutely jaw dropping. Oddly enough, it's the viewpoint that looks out onto Leith and the Northern suburbs rather than the one onto Prince's Street and the castle that impresses most. From the two Forth Bridges to the oil tankers out at sea, to rows of tightly packed tenements and buses and pedestrians going about their business, there's simply just too much to take in. My fairly ham-fisted, boring depiction doesn't do it justice, just go up and have a look it really is jaw-dropping, and simply one of the most stunning urban views I've seen, anywhere. P.S. Unless you're George Michael, don't go alone at night unless you're prepared for some unwanted attention, and a good shafting. read more

Views of Edinburgh. Old timey structures that don't make no sense but look pretty. An observatory. A decent(ish) hike up after your Sunday Roast. A venue for Hogmanay and Bealtaine. A bit dodge at night.... Calton Hill has all this and more! II almost always take visiting friends here because when in Edinburgh, climb a hill and Calton Hill is the easiest. If you want a proper hike go to Arthurs Seat which is steeper, higher and longer. Calton Hill is Arturs Seat Lite, now with added history.The view of the sea and (turn around) the city is wonderful. Calton Hill is also nicely situated, when you feel all pumped and 'yeah!' after your 'climb' you can head to Broughton St, Leith Walk or...well anywhere really. Calton Hill is perfectly situated that a decent cafe or restaurant is never too far away. Bonus is Calton Cemetary nearby with fancy old gravestones and maybe a ghost or two! read more

It's got nice food, but the service is a bit slow. I remember sitting at the table slouching down nearly falling off of my chair when I was waiting for my fish and chips. read more

I went here in July. The views of the city from Calton Hill were some of my favorite. If you can handle more steps, I'd definitely recommend paying the 5 pounds to go up to the top of the tower. There was no one else up at the top of the tower when I went up, which made it seem like a very personal view of the city. read more

Calton Hill - The view from the top of the tower - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

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At the recommendation of you lovely Edinburgh Yelpers, we had the cab drop us here after our 3 days in the Highlands to get some great views of the city without having to haul my pregnant self up Arthur's Seat. We were not disappointed. Arriving in the gloaming, we enjoyed lovely views of the surrounding areas and enjoyed the people watching as dozens gathered to relax on the several monuments and vistas and watch the sun set on the beautiful city and the Firth of Forth. There are several signs giving information about the monuments as well as the geography of the area, so it's educational as well as beautiful. Worth the exercise! read more

If you are here in the summer months I would suggest strolling up this hill around sunset time- it gives great views of Edinburgh and Leith and you see the transisition to night- absolutely stunning!! Home to a lot of monuments it's well worth a visit even if you are here only for a few days! read more

As the name mentions it, the building are located above a small hill, which will not be so easy to access if you are disabled. Hovewer, the walk is enjoyable and there is a great panorama. Dont let you fool by the dozend of "night photography", the place has no light during the evening, it will be very dark and difficult to see of you are nog equiped. Some buildings are currently under renovation/not accessible read more

Took a photography tour from this spot...which is pretty high up with great vantage points, you can see all of New Town, Old Town and HolyRood. Sick pic ops from this elevation. Its very windy so watch your cameras, as they may go flying off the hill. Just look at the pics taken from this location (click on them). Dizzzzope. read more

Best view of Edinburgh scenery. Takes around 10 minutes to walk up a slight incline to get to the top. I wore flip flops and didn't have any problems, but recommend wearing something more practical. Take some wine and cheese with you-- a great spot to picnic or just sit and relax. Remember to bring your camera for great landscape photos! read more

A hop, skip and a jump away from all the bustle of Princes St and Leith Walk, Calton Hill offers a steep, breath-catching walk, awesome views of Edinburgh, the Pentlands and Fife, and a real feeling of 'getting away from it all'. The monuments are impressive and puzzling, the perspective of the city unique (so near, yet so far!) and it's an excellent stepping stone on your way to bigger things - go on, you know you want to climb Arthur's Seat! You'll find Fergus and I up there in all weathers - it's our favourite spot in the city. read more

What can I say about Calton Hill that hasn't been Yelped already? For those of us who are lazy and afraid of steep slopes, Calton Hill is just the hike for a view when Arthur's Seat is a bit too much (I will conquer you one day, you hear me). Smack dab in the middle of the city, you can have a brief hike and a satisfying meal as your reward within a short walking distance. There's a smorgasbord of monuments up top and a stunning view of the city. It's a must-visit, at least once (although I plan on coming back on the next sunny day with a couple bottles of cider - don't tell)! read more

If you are looking for a picnic spot in our beautiful capital city, then look no further, Calton hill is picture postcard perfect. With phenomenal views of the city and Leith you can also enjoy marvelling at the National Monument. Whenever I take a walk up here I always feel like a giant as you can see people going about their business in the streets below, carrying shopping bags, waiting for the bus and sauntering along the meandering streets. It's a gorgeous, peaceful place and great for inspiration too. read more

Monuments, cannons, and gorgeous views. Years of regular visits to Edinburgh, and I just took my first walk up Calton Hill this year. I'd clearly been missing out! The views are unrivaled. Not much I can add that hasn't been said by others, but it's definitely worth a visit. read more

The beauty of the views from the top of Calton Hill are what makes the walk worthwhile. It isn't exactly the biggest climb but after a heavy lunch you might struggle, or even if you're just a exercise-shy sod like myself. But I promise, get the flats on and get up there because it really is one of the best places to be in the City. You can also get a wee bit of culture in and take a picture near the National Monument and other statuey-monumenty things that are up there, all of which you can see I have studied intricately. The other reviewers weren't over-exaggerating, it really is one of the best views you will ever see anywhere, right here in our beautiful City. read more

Calton Hill - Pathway to Calton Hill - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Edinburgh, EDH

Very touristy area, but definitely one of the best views of princes street and the centre city. Beautiful area! read more

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If you're a first time visitor to Edinburgh, or you've lived here for your whole life, but you're just really lazy about seeing what's on your doorstep, or you ticked this landmark off years ago on a school trip, so you kind of feel like you've seen it now, or whatever your Calton Hill visiting circumstances, I'm telling you to get your legs moving quick sharp up this hill, because the views, sights, and significance of this sight are well deserving of a few hours of reflection. A short walk from the east end will bring you to a venue of fantastic views round the city of Edinburgh, and as Edinburgh is very beautiful, no bias at all there, having a good look at the city's features from up here can leave you marvelling for ages. Taking the time to wander round the hill is also completely worthwhile, as you can see the imposing and awesome Royal Observatory, the Parthenon-esque National Monument, the distinctive Dugald Stewart monument, which is an established part of the Edinburgh skyscape, and actually, there are quite a few other monuments to peruse while you're there. read more

This is a hill with a view. On a clear day you will be able to see all over the Edinburgh-land and beyond. You can imagine being transported in time looking at the observatory and the columns of the unfinished monument. In the summer you will have unobstructed sunshine on the days that the sun is out. And if you are into your photography the sunrises and sunsets from this heightened view point are ah-mazing. The Carlton Hill is used as a venue for many art and performances - most famous is the Beltane Festival on 30 April. (the Winter spring Equinox) On New Year's Eve / Hogmany this is one of the 7 hills that will display fireworks. hopefully they will not change this hill and its access, as it is a blessing for the residents as not many tourists tend to venture up this hill - since there is loads of other stuff for them to do. I like it here and it is mostly a very nice place to have a quiet walk and be out of the busy City that is just meters away. read more

In looking at Calton Hill from the Royal Mile, I was a little incredulous about other reviewers' comments about it being an easy 5 minute walk. Well, they're right. We walked through the close at the Canongate Tolbooth, and took a right on the street it dead ends into. About a block up on the left, you'll see a small staircase. If you go up this, and take a left up the hill, it is a pretty brief walk to the top. From the top there is a beautiful view of Holyroodhouse Palace, Arthur's Seat, and the Canongate Tolbooth. (If you go east approximately 200-300 feet, the Palace can be seen better.) If you go west along this road, you'll pass Old Calton Burial Ground, where several famous residents were buried (including Hume), and if you continue even further it becomes Princes Street. Highly recommend Calton Hill for a nice vantage point of this side of Edinburgh. read more

Spectacular views! it only takes about 5 minutes to get to the top. This is my first visit to Edinburgh. My Dad was born and raised here and recently passed away. We have some great pictures of him from the top on his last visit home. I always heard Edinburgh was amazingly beautiful, but the panoramic views are absolutely breathtaking. read more

Getting to Calton Hill is literally a flight of stairs so if you're looking for a less athletic alternative to Arthur's Seat that will still grant you some great photo ops, Calton Hill is a great choice. Even so, Calton Hill is beautiful. If the weather is nice, bring a blanket, some food and good book and relax on the grass for a bit as you take in the monuments around you. read more

An easy hike up... Best views over Edinburgh... Is post card worthy... read more

I take the train from Aberdeen and get off at the Waverly stop in Edinburgh. The first thing I do is walk on over to Calton Hill. This is an excellent scenic monument and park. Walk up the cobble stone, brick, and volcanic rock lined streets up the hill. Once up the hill the views are stunning. Especially on a clear day. The first time I visited was during the summer, and almost by accident. I basically got lost trying to find Cafe Royal for lunch, lol. Once I saw the hill, I decided to check it out. I am glad I did. The weather was perfect and clear, and I could see everything. Just recently I went back, and obviously the weather in late February is not ideal, but it cleared up enough in the late morning early afternoon to make it worth while. I love the history to some of the monuments here. The National Monument was never completed, and it was suppose to be a replica of the Parthenon. I have always liked the Nelson's Monument , and of coarse the best views anywhere when there are fireworks. This is a great park, and much more than a tourist trap/destination. A wonderful way to spend a morning, while working up a hunger and thirst for a Rose St pub crawl. read more

One of those touristy things you have to do in Edinburgh, and since it is free even backpackers can enjoy the wonderful views. The walk up is not hard, but wearing actual shoes will make it more enjoyable. You should walk up once during the day so you can poke around and take the scenic pictures, bring a lunch with a date and enjoy the views. But come back again at night for city skyline at night with your date for some QT. Oh and besides the view there are monuments to snap up pics during the day. read more