Arthur's Seat loop from Holyrood — Edinburgh

This loop is rated as difficult for jogging. While the paved Queen's Drive offers a more gradual incline, directly ascending Arthur's Seat involves steep, rocky sections with loose gravel. The full loop, even on Queen's Drive, includes significant elevation gain, making it a challenging but rewarding run.

The terrain is varied. You'll find paved roads along Queen's Drive, which encircles Holyrood Park. For those venturing off-road, expect well-maintained dirt paths, but also steep, rocky sections with loose gravel, especially closer to the summit. Be prepared for muddy and wet conditions, particularly after rain or in higher elevations, and icy patches in winter.

For the main paved loop along Queen's Drive, standard road running shoes will suffice. However, if you plan to explore the off-road sections or ascend to the summit of Arthur's Seat, trail running shoes are highly recommended for better grip and stability on uneven, rocky, or muddy surfaces.

This route offers a diverse range of sights. You'll enjoy panoramic views across Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and landmarks like Edinburgh Castle. The path also passes scenic spots such as St Margaret's Loch, the ruins of St Anthony's Chapel, and provides dramatic views of the Salisbury Crags. The highlight, of course, is reaching the summit of Arthur's Seat itself.

Yes, Holyrood Park, including the Arthur's Seat loop, is generally dog-friendly. However, it's important to keep dogs under control, especially around wildlife and other visitors. Leash rules may apply in certain areas or during specific times, so always check local signage.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access Holyrood Park or to jog the Arthur's Seat loop. It is open to the public free of charge.

The loop can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Sundays during autumn and winter are particularly good for jogging on Queen's Drive as it's often closed to cars, making for a more peaceful run. Be mindful of potentially icy conditions in winter and muddy trails after rain.

The loop typically starts near Holyrood Palace, at the base of Holyrood Park. Parking is available within Holyrood Park along Queen's Drive, though spaces can be limited, especially on busy days. Public transport is also a convenient option, with several bus routes serving the Holyrood area.

Yes, the route intersects with and runs alongside several other paths within Holyrood Park. You may find yourself on sections of the Innocent Railway, Radical Road, Piper's Walk, The Dry Dam, The Dasses, Volunteer's Walk, and The Quarter Mile, offering opportunities to explore different parts of the park.

Yes, Queen's Drive, the paved road encircling Holyrood Park, is often closed to cars on Sundays during autumn and winter. This makes it particularly pleasant for joggers, offering a less trafficked and more serene experience. It's always a good idea to check local signage or the Holyrood Park website for current closures.