Calton Hill

Home to Panoramic Views and Historical Icons

Calton Hill offers panoramic views of the city’s characterful skyline and serves as an idyllic destination for both locals and visitors to enjoy a little of peace and quiet admiring our enchanting city. Towering gracefully above the bustling streets below, Calton Hill is adorned with a collection of iconic monuments, neoclassical structures, and lush greenery, offering picturesque scenery across the city.

Atop Calton Hill, visitors are treated to breathtaking vistas of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, with its medieval architecture and towering spires, as well as the elegant Georgian buildings of the New Town. The hill’s elevated vantage point provides an ideal setting for capturing stunning photographs and immersing oneself in the city’s rich history and architectural beauty.

One of the most notable landmarks on Calton Hill is the National Monument, a neoclassical structure inspired by the Parthenon in Athens, intended to commemorate Scottish soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars. While the monument remains unfinished, it remains a poignant symbol of Scottish identity and resilience. Other attractions on Calton Hill include the Nelson Monument, a towering monument dedicated to Admiral Lord Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar, and the Dugald Stewart Monument, honouring the Scottish philosopher and mathematician, as well as the National Observatory.

In addition to its historic monuments, Calton Hill is also a popular spot for leisure and recreation, with its expansive green spaces offering opportunities for picnicking, jogging, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature amidst the bustling cityscape.

Whether you’re exploring its historic monuments, soaking in panoramic views of the city, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment in nature, Calton Hill offers a captivating and unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Edinburgh’s timeless charm and beauty.