8¼ reasons to book a guided group hike
Many people visit Arthur’s Seat every day of the year. From elsewhere in Edinburgh you can almost always see tiny little people standing at the top of the hill, enjoying the view.
So why would you choose to join a guided hike with a qualified Mountain Leader?
1.Finding Your Way
There are easier routes up the hill and there are harder routes. Some of the paths are misleading and can end up on steep and dangerous terrain, so if you don’t know the area you may prefer to have a guide show you the best way and avoid the crowds.
2. Safety
All routes to the summit require you to walk on steep, rocky ground. Your group leader will show you what the most appropriate route depending on the weather and ground conditions each day.
The group leader will be able to help you on any slightly tricky sections, and avoid unnecessary difficulties by choosing the best path.
Qualified Mountain Leaders are required to undertake Outdoor First Aid training and have many years experience hiking in Scotland’s mountains.
3. Sunset — After Dark
Sunset hikes reach the summit just before the sun disappears, so we walk down the hill as it’s getting darker. Many of our group members are very glad to be in a group when it gets dark — especially solo travellers. We provide head torches for all group members.
4. Local Knowledge and Stories
Your guide will provide a stories and local insight during the hike. This brings to life everything you can see from the hill. Edinburgh Castle, the Palace, the Old Town, New Town, and Leith, you’ll hear amusing stories and interesting facts as you go.
5. Recommendations
You can ask your guide about other things to do in Edinburgh during your visit, as we’ll be walking together for a couple of hours. We’re particularly good at café/restaurant/pub recommendations. And if you’re travelling further, our extensive knowledge of Scotland is invaluable, especially if you’re thinking of hiking or adventuring in the Scottish Highlands.
5. Wildlife
Arthur’s Seat is home to a diverse range of plants and animals. These change constantly with the seasons. In Spring you’ll see the blazing yellow gorse blanketing the hill. In Summer it’s a sea of purple heather flowers. Autumn brings bright orange leaves on the trees. And Winter has a magic of its own, with dramatic skies and occasional frost.
6. Timings
If you’re not sure about pacing yourself, or if you’re worried about getting to the summit for the perfect Sunset, a guided tour is your answer. The route is chosen to show you the best of the views, while avoiding the crowds. There are plenty of chances to stop, admire the landscape, and take photos.
And of course it doesn’t count unless you’ve got a photo. So you’ll be shown the best photo locations, where you can get some cool shots on the mountain.
Professional photography packages also available.
8. Gift
Everyone who comes on one of our hikes gets a gift at the end. You’ll have to wait and see what it is.
8¼. You might see the King*
King Charles and other members of the Royal Family often visit Edinburgh and stay in the Palace of Holyrood House — this is where we begin the hike. Sometimes we see the Royal helicopter arriving or leaving, and flying around Arthur’s Seat. When a member of the Royal Family is in residence, the Palace flies the Royal Standard, so we know they’re home.
*Royal sightings not guaranteed.