This extinct volcano is the highest peak in Holyrood Park. At 822 feet, it provides excellent panoramic views of the city and beyond. One way to access the hill is from the Scottish Parliament at the bottom of the Royal Mile but this walk takes a more direct route up the western flank. From Waverley Station, head up the North and South Bridges and keep going until the thoroughfare becomes Clerk Street. Branch left on to Rankeillor Street, then take a right followed by an immediate left. You are now on St Leonard's Lane which curves round into St Leonard's Bank before the tarmac ends at a grassy footpath fork. Bear left over the higher ground which reveals views of Salisbury Crags and the city centre behind you. Descend to cross Queen's Drive and take the obvious uphill path to the left which splits from the main drag some 200 yards beyond the roundabout.
The route soon turns into a stone staircase and height is rapidly gained, revealing more of the cityscape as you increase your elevation. The steps are rather uneven and it's best to proceed in a slow and steady manner. We revert back to a gravel path which swoops around to home in on the rocky summit of Arthur's Seat. Take care on the stony outcrop (which can be slippy after rainfall) and pick a sensible route to the top. It's a small climb to the concrete trigpoint at the pinnacle. There is ample room to sit down and admire the capital of Scotland from this lofty perch at its centre.
