Britain’s Best Views: Carlton Hill, Edinburgh, Scotland

Discover the best views of Britain, from historical monuments to a 360 degree view of the city.

In this blog, we will tell you all about the views of Carlton Hill, Edinburgh, Scotland.

Edinburgh is one of the most visited cities within Europe. Whether it’s the graceful Georgian and austere Gothic architecture, or the rugged volcanic geography, it serves as an inspirational ground for generations of artists and writers as well as being the world’s festival capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is inevitable for you to come across the view of Carlton Hill at some time in your life; the views are used in numerous films, photographs and paintings of the city. You can enjoy an almost 360 degree view of the city by just hiking five minutes up the hill, and from there, you can easily pinpoint attractions such as the Edinburgh Castle, National Monument, Holyrood Palace, Arthur’s Seat, Nelson Monument, sea view and much more.

If you would like a great view of the city, climb up the stone spiral steps of the Nelson Monument. If not, there are perfectly good views from the bottom as well. Walking down from the Nelson Monument, you will come across the never completed National Monument built to commemorate the dead of the Napoleonic Wars. Even though the monument was never completed, its style served as an iconic architecture, influencing many recent architects. From here, the walkway to the left will lead you to the famous Dugald Stewart Monument. Next to this monument and the cannon is a great viewing point where numerous photographs of Edinburgh are taken. Be sure to test out your photography skill here and you will be guaranteed a spectacular photo to show off to your friends.

Fun facts! Carlton Hill, as one of the first public recreation spaces in Edinburgh, was once used as a rallying point for supporters of Scottish self-governance.

Top tip: Carlton Hill isn’t the only great viewpoint in Edinburgh. Arthur’s Seat is surely something you wouldn’t want to miss; a huge piece of rock on top of a group of hills in Holyrood Park providing astonishing views. The views include: the roof-tops of the Scottish Parliament building, the armadillo shaped Dynamic Earth science centre, and the old Royal High School. If you find yourself in Edinburgh, we would highly recommend you visit Arthur’s Seat as well as Calton Hill. It’s a bit of a climb, but the view is well worth it, and you don’t need to be a seasoned hiker or hillwalker to get there either. Remember to pack a good set of walking shoes though.

Make the most out of your trip by staying at one of our Best Loved hotels. Choose from homely, private apartment Knight Residence where you will enjoy top class hotel facilities with complimentary breakfast basket, children and adult’s welcome packs, as well as concierge and housekeeping services.

Or the stylish and luxurious private apartments provided by The Holyrood ApartHotel, fully equipped with plasma screen TV, fitness room, parking and much more.

If you prefer somewhere a bit more discrete, the elegant The Howard townhouse style residence, with its five-star services as well as a range of modern facilities will maximise your holiday experience.

Stay tuned for our next ‘Britain’s Best Views’ blog where we will tell you all about the amazing view from the London Eye, London.

Calton Hill View image by Francisco Diez, Calton Hill View ii image by Bernt Rostad and Arthur’s Seat image by dun_deagh.