Pictures of Arthur's Seat and Salisbury Crags in Edinburgh

Arthur's Seat and Salisbury Crags are natural rock formations situated in Holyrood Park. The park is probably the most astonishing urban park in the UK.

While Salisbury Crags are remains of glaciated rocks, Arthur's Seat is an extinct volcano and has been called by this name since the 15th century. Some say that the name comes from the legendary Arthur of Camelot while some say that the extinct volcano is probably named after a local hero that had nothing to do with King Arthur.

It only takes about one to two hours to climb to the top. The view from up there is tremendous. Not only do you get a view of Edinburgh's skyline but you can see all the way to the Bass Rock if you look to the East. You can clearly see the Pentland Hills if you look the other way. Behind the Pentlands is Penicuik where you can find the famous Edinburgh Crystal factory On a clear day you can see all the way to Stirling and the Forth bridges (Forth Road and Forth Rail bridge).

First view of Edinburgh's skyline on the way to Arthur's Seat. You can tell how distinctive it is: the castle, the Highland Tolbooth, St Giles' cathedral, another church and the Royal Bank of Scotland.

Looking up while heading towards Salisbury Crags. The path is often used for bikers and people who walk their dogs. Salisbury Crags is a fine place to spend a Sunday afternoon (provided the weather permits it).

First sight of how sheer, shallow and weird Salisbury Crags actually are. One does not have an accurate perception of the Crags until being actually on the site. Judging their height from afar can be very misleading. One of the best views of Edinburgh Castle in all of Edinburgh. On the right you can see the Hub, the (Festival headquarters) and the Old Town buildings on the Royal Mile. This view is often used for postcards.

Looking towards Arthur's Seat from Salisbury Crags. The picture manages to give a bit of perspective as to how huge they really are. The picture speaks for itself. Salisbury Crags are indeed some of the most unique shapes ever to be found in a city. Looking down on the Crags from the top of Arthur's Seat.

St Margaret's Loch on the other side of Arthur's Seat. The loch is man-made and home of numerous swans which you can see from the top. One last look at Arthur's Seat on the way down. The view is rather deceptive because the top is much higher than it appears to be.