Castle · UNESCO
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
A fortress on an extinct volcano above the city, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels.
Viewpoint · United Kingdom · Scotland
Calton Hill
A small hill with unfinished monuments and one of the best views of Edinburgh.
Free to enter about 45 min
For storytellers
Why Calton Hill matters
A short, easy climb takes you to a hill dotted with monuments, including a replica of part of the Parthenon. From here you see the castle, Arthur's Seat and the sea together. It is lovely at sunset.
Talking points
- The National Monument was never finished.
- It offers views of both Old Town and New Town.
- Sunset draws a crowd.
Free to read aloud or adapt in your video. Check facts that matter to you against an official source before you publish.
More in Edinburgh
Mountain
Arthur's Seat
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
An ancient volcano in Holyrood Park with a short climb and a full city panorama.
Neighbourhood · UNESCO
The Royal Mile
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
The historic street running from the castle to Holyrood Palace, lined with closes, shops and pubs.
Festival or event
Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
A huge August arts festival that turns the city into a stage.
Neighbourhood
Grassmarket and Victoria Street
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
A lively old square and a curved, colourful street of independent shops below the castle.
Museum
National Museum of Scotland
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
A large free museum covering Scottish history, science, natural history and world cultures.
Also nearby
Within about 40 km, closest first.