
Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 27 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill worth booking?
Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill is a 3-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $35 per person. It scores 73 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 27 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 73 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (27)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $35 per person
Uncover the full skyline of Scotland’s capital on Edinburgh's most complete hill-walking experience. This immersive 3-hour journey includes both Calton Hill and Arthur’s Seat, giving you the 360-degree panoramic views of the city. Guided by a local expert, you will see the city’s skyline while walking through centuries of history, from local wildlife to royal secrets outside the Palace of Holyroodhouse. • Small-group tour at an inclusive, gentle pace • Check off both Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill on a single tour • Rest breaks at regular intervals • Capture every postcard-perfect photo along the way
What you get
About this experience
Uncover the full skyline of Scotland’s capital on Edinburgh's most complete hill-walking experience. This immersive 3-hour journey includes both Calton Hill and Arthur’s Seat, giving you the 360-degree panoramic views of the city. Guided by a local expert, you will see the city’s skyline while walking through centuries of history, from local wildlife to royal secrets outside the Palace of Holyroodhouse. • Small-group tour at an inclusive, gentle pace • Check off both Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill on a single tour • Rest breaks at regular intervals • Capture every postcard-perfect photo along the way
What's included
Included
- Small group (Maximum 10)
- Professionally guided tour
What you'll see and do
Calton Hill
Discover the range of towering landmarks and top photo spots.
40 minutes here
Palace of Holyroodhouse
View this magnificent palace from the outside and learn about its history and current ownership from King Charles III.
10 minutes here
Holyrood Park
Arthur's Seat is the hill at the centre of the park. We take the peaceful route away from the crowds, admiring wildlife throughout the 650-acre park.
90 minutes here
Arthur's Seat
You are rewarded by the top views at the summit and some rest time. Plenty of time to stop and take photos before starting the descent.
20 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Edinburgh
Please meet at the corner of Howies and the cobbled Calton Hill street on Waterloo Place.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
The walking tour will finish at the King's Gallery which is at the bottom of the Royal Mile outside the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Walks with Lewis
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 27 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
9 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Physical effort
7 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Photo opportunities
5 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Pace and timing
4 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Traveler reviews
27 verified traveler reviews for Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Book this tour without hesitation!
This tour was amazing! Our guide was so knowledgeable; I learnt so much! Proper humour throughout and he came prepared with walking sticks, etc. Book this tour immediately! You will not be disappointed! I would give more stars - if possible. :-)
via Viator
A Day to Remember
This is a must if you’re in Edinburgh and you want to experience something truly special. My sister and I are from the United States and were told to hike Arthur’s Seat and we decided we wanted to take a guided tour so that we could get the full experience, which was a great decision. The tour guide was very friendly and informative, kept a nice pace to our destinations, and when there were those who found the hike too tough, our tour guide made sure to accommodate them. In all, if you’re up for a nice brisk walk to see some of the most beautiful sights you’ll ever witness, this is a perfect choice for your Scottish vacation.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for the review! I am glad to hear that you and your sister chose me to guide you up Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill. It is wonderful to hear that the pace was just right and that everyone felt included and accommodated—that is exactly what I aim for. Enjoy the rest of your Scottish vacation!
via Viator
We did it
Challenging hike for a senior, otherwise a great experience. Knowledgeable guide, perfect pace. Enjoy
Response from the operator: Susan, thank you for your complimentary review. It was a pleasure to guide you and your family to the summit of Arthur's Seat. I am glad the pace worked well for you. Safe travels on your next adventure!
via Viator
Lewis is your guy-ide!
Highly recommend the Arthur's Seat & Carlton Hill with Lewis when your visiting Edinburgh. Lewis is a very friendly, genuine and knowledgeable guide. The hike was at a comfortable pace with plenty of time to enjoy each place. Lewis was also very attentive and patient. My wife and I had an awesome time. This was a great tour, thanks again Lewis!
Response from the operator: Josh, thank you for the lovely review and recommendation! I really enjoyed guiding you and your wife across Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill. Making sure the tour feels relaxed and enjoyable is always my priority, and I am glad you had such a great time. Thanks again for joining me!
via Tripadvisor
Great tour went early...
Great tour went early this year and Lewis was really knowledgeable of the city and the route up Arthur’s seat! Amazing views once teaching the top. Would recommend.
Response from the operator: Thank you for the lovely feedback! Arthur’s Seat is such a special spot, and I am so glad I could share its history and the best route up with you. We certainly lucked out with those amazing views at the top! Thanks for recommending the tour, and all the best to you.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 9
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 73
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.
How much does Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill cost?
+
Prices start at $35 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Edinburgh usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill take?
+
Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Edinburgh is not rushed.
Is Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 73 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 27 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Edinburgh, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill?
+
Around 9 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Edinburgh can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Edinburgh and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Edinburgh within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Edinburgh?
+
On Outty we rank every Edinburgh experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh, The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Old Town: Historical Guided Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
+
Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Edinburgh?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill?
+
Included: Small group (Maximum 10); and Professionally guided tour. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill?
+
Please meet at the corner of Howies and the cobbled Calton Hill street on Waterloo Place. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill offered in?
+
It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill if the weather is bad?
+
It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Edinburgh. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill?
+
Across 27 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, photo opportunities. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Hike Arthur's Seat & Calton Hill.
Pick your date




