Calton Hill

Calton Hill

Calton Hill is a small hill located on the eastern side of Edinburgh's New Town in Scotland. The scenery of the hill, as well as the views from it, are frequently featured in photographs and paintings of the city.

Calton Hill is home to the headquarters of the Scottish Government, with St Andrew’s House situated on the hill’s steep southern slope; meanwhile, important structures such as the Scottish Parliament building and Holyrood Palace are located near the foot of the hill. The hill also features several iconic monuments and buildings: the National Monument, the Nelson Monument, the Dugald Stewart Monument, the Old Royal High School, the Robert Burns Monument, the Political Martyrs' Monument, and the City Observatory, among others.

Throughout the year, numerous events are held on Calton Hill, the largest of which is Beltane, celebrated on April 30th with around 12,000 participants. This event is a revival of the ancient Celtic May Day festival on Calton Hill. In early October each year, the Hindu festival of Dussehra is also celebrated on the hill.

Standing at the top of Calton Hill and looking westward, you’ll see Edinburgh Castle standing majestically, guarding the peaceful city — a truly beautiful sight. Looking east, you can take in the blue expanse of the Atlantic Ocean and the white sails dotting the Firth of Forth. On sunny days, locals are often seen gathering on the hill for picnics and sunbathing on the grass.

Calton Hill

Must-visit reason: The most famous hill in downtown Edinburgh

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Britain[Britain]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Edinburgh [Edinburgh]

City where the attraction is located: Edinburgh [Edinburgh]