With the weather getting more positive and moods improving, what should you do to soak up every bit of sun?
Most recommend Arthur’s Seat — it has even been mentioned in many forms of media. For example, in One Day it is the location where Dexter and Emma travel to the morning after graduation and another prominent moment with Jasmine towards the end of the novel. So, why is Arthur’s Seat so popular?
Well, this walk is the perfect amount of time for walking outdoors and not too long that you get bored. Even better, there are different routes to take so you can mix up your journey every single time. These routes vary in difficulty. Therefore, you can decide which side of this hill you decide to scale. You can have a leisurely stroll around Arthur’s Seat, a quick and direct walk upwards, or scale the side for a more challenging risky approach.
I tested the theory myself, is this walk all that everyone says?
I started off near Pollock Halls, passing through Holyroods Park. Now, Google Maps argues that this walk should take 45 minutes. I would not classify myself as a quick walker, in fact I am almost known for walking too slowly. So in theory, to get to the peak for me, in a hopeful sense, this should take 50 minutes. I started the climb, step after step, the rocks blurring into each other. But, with a pause halfway up it is obvious why this walk gets its name. Seeing all of Edinburgh from one point is a very poignant moment. From where I stood, I could see Edinburgh Castle and Calton Hill—a perfectly scenic view. I continued my journey, passing people who were desperate to see the view from the top. Ironically, I paused by a couple who were longingly staring into the open, exclaiming that this was the right thing to do. After around 30 minutes, I touched the Lion’s Head celebrating the fact I had reached the highest point and looked around.
Yes, this view is worth the walk. In one direction, you can see the university buildings, in another direction Waverley train station and, in the distance, the sea. The whole of Edinburgh from one point. If you have not walked up Arthur’s Seat yet, why don’t you take an hour or so out of your day to do so? The walk is known for a reason after all.
Image by Harry Sharma for The Student