Edinburgh sits at an average elevation of 47 metres (154 feet) above sea level. However, the city's famous seven hills create dramatic variations, from sea level at Leith's waterfront to 251 metres at the summit of Arthur's Seat. This varied topography gives Edinburgh its distinctive skyline and numerous viewpoints.
Edinburgh's Seven Hills
Like Rome, Edinburgh is traditionally said to be built on seven hills. The volcanic geology created these distinctive peaks millions of years ago.
Arthur's Seat
251m (823ft)The highest point in Edinburgh. An ancient volcano offering 360-degree city views. The climb takes about 45 minutes.
Learn more →Blackford Hill
164m (538ft)Home to the Royal Observatory Edinburgh. Popular for sunset views and nature walks.
Corstorphine Hill
161m (528ft)In west Edinburgh, home to Edinburgh Zoo. The tower at the summit is a war memorial.
Craiglockhart Hill
175m (574ft)Actually two hills (North and South) in south-west Edinburgh with woodland walks.
Castle Rock
130m (427ft)The volcanic plug where Edinburgh Castle has stood for over 900 years.
Learn more →Calton Hill
103m (338ft)Famous for its monuments including the National Monument and Nelson Monument. One of the best viewpoints.
Learn more →Braid Hills
208m (682ft)Two golf courses and panoramic views of the city and Firth of Forth.
Elevation of Key Landmarks
Edinburgh Castle
130mAt the top of Castle Rock
Royal Mile (top)
120mNear Edinburgh Castle
Royal Mile (bottom)
35mAt Holyrood Palace
Princes Street
55mMain shopping street
Edinburgh Waverley
28mMain train station
Leith Waterfront
0-5mSea level at the port
University (Old College)
75mSouth Bridge area
Edinburgh Airport
41mWest of the city
Why Edinburgh's Elevation Matters
For Visitors
- • Expect lots of walking uphill - wear comfortable shoes
- • The Royal Mile drops 85 metres from Castle to Holyrood
- • Many stairs and steep closes in the Old Town
- • Great viewpoints reward the climbs
For Weather
- • Higher areas can be windier and cooler
- • Leith at sea level may be milder
- • Snow settles longer on the hills
- • Coastal influence moderates temperatures
Volcanic Origins
Edinburgh's hills are the remains of volcanoes that were active around 350 million years ago during the Carboniferous period. Castle Rock and Arthur's Seat are volcanic plugs—the hardened cores of ancient volcanoes that resisted erosion by glaciers during the Ice Age.
The glaciers carved the distinctive "crag and tail" formation visible at Castle Rock, where the hard volcanic rock protected the softer rock behind it, creating the slope on which the Royal Mile was built.
Best Elevated Viewpoints
Arthur's Seat Summit
360-degree panorama of entire city
Calton Hill
Classic Edinburgh skyline view, sunrise favourite
Edinburgh Castle Esplanade
Views over Princes Street Gardens
Scott Monument
287 steps to the top, city centre views
Blackford Hill
Quieter alternative, great for sunset