New Calton Burial Ground Edinburgh
A historic Edinburgh burial ground offering intricate gravestone art and stunning views of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light for photos
New Calton Burial Ground Edinburgh
Best Time
Golden light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Edinburgh burial ground offering intricate gravestone art and stunning views of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace.
"Discover history carved in stone with breathtaking views of Edinburgh's iconic landmarks."
🚶♀️ Wander and Reflect
Take your time to explore the winding paths and read the inscriptions. It's a place for quiet contemplation.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning photo opportunities of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Intricate Stone Carvings
Discover the artistry and emotion etched into centuries-old gravestones, telling tales of lives lived.

Panoramic City Views
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace from this elevated, historic site.

Historic Mausoleums
Marvel at the impressive architecture of grand mausoleums, testaments to Edinburgh's prominent families.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Quiet History
Views and Vistas
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander and Reflect
Take your time to explore the winding paths and read the inscriptions. It's a place for quiet contemplation.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning photo opportunities of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace.
New Carlton Burial Ground in Edinburgh.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain is hilly and paths can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must.
🕰️ Discover Hidden History
Look for unique features like Edinburgh's first gas street light!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander and Reflect
Take your time to explore the winding paths and read the inscriptions. It's a place for quiet contemplation.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning photo opportunities of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The terrain is hilly and paths can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must.
🕰️ Discover Hidden History
Look for unique features like Edinburgh's first gas street light!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise New Calton Burial Ground for its historical depth, intricate gravestone artistry, and breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh landmarks like Arthur's Seat. While some note its unkempt state adds to its antique charm, others appreciate the peaceful escape it offers from the city bustle.
"Beautiful cemetery with old graves. Step inside to escape the hustle and bustle of the surrounding area and take your time viewing the old graves. View of Carlton Hill."
Bram Slijpen
"A really interesting piece of history. This graveyard has some stunning views and is an interesting place to explore and see the little pieces of history that can be found here."
Matt H
"A find as we left Calton Hill towards our destination, this old cemetery boasts some impressive mausoleums and many historic headstones, amidst some brambles (sadly). The unkempt condition leant to its antiquity. Good views of Arthurs Seat and Salisbury Crags"
Graham Tranter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
New Calton Burial Ground is easily accessible on foot from the city center, located on the southern slope of Calton Hill. It's a pleasant walk up from Holyrood Palace or along the Royal Mile.
Street parking can be limited in the immediate vicinity due to its central location. It's recommended to use public transport or walk if possible.
Yes, several bus routes stop near Calton Hill, making it convenient to reach via public transport. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
It's conveniently located near other popular Edinburgh sites like Calton Hill, Holyrood Palace, and the Royal Mile, making it easy to incorporate into a walking tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, New Calton Burial Ground is generally free to enter and explore. It's an open public space for historical appreciation.
As an outdoor historical site, it's typically accessible during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific seasonal or event-related closures.
There is no admission fee to visit New Calton Burial Ground. It's a historical site open for public exploration.
While generally accessible during daylight, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety and potential access restrictions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a variety of historical gravestones, intricate carvings, impressive mausoleums, and beautiful views of Edinburgh landmarks like Arthur's Seat.
While it retains its historical charm, some areas may appear a bit unkempt, contributing to its antique feel.
While official guided tours might be infrequent, local history enthusiasts or walking tours often include this site. Check with local tour operators.
Absolutely! The unique gravestones, architecture, and panoramic views make it a fantastic spot for photography.
Established in 1817, it served as an overflow for the Old Calton Burial Ground and contains the graves of many notable Edinburgh residents, reflecting the city's rich history.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for vantage points offering views of Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace, and focus on the detailed inscriptions and unique designs of the gravestones.
Yes, as long as you are discreet and respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography and focus on the historical and artistic elements.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden light for capturing the gravestones and the cityscape.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and historical sites. It's best to assume they are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Combine your visit with a walk up Arthur's Seat for a more active and varied family outing. The accessible paths make it manageable for most ages, and the historical context of the burial ground can spark curiosity about Edinburgh's past.
📸 Photographers & History Buffs
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Reflective Visitors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tapestry of History and Views
The unique layout and the sheer volume of historical markers make it a fascinating place for those interested in genealogy, local history, or simply appreciating the artistry of funerary monuments. The inscriptions on the tombstones often reveal poignant details about life expectancy and societal norms of the era, offering a tangible connection to the past. The unkempt condition of some areas, as noted by visitors, adds to its antique and atmospheric charm, making it feel like a step back in time.
Beyond its historical significance, the burial ground is celebrated for its picturesque setting. It provides breathtaking, unobstructed views of iconic Edinburgh landmarks such as Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Palace. This combination of historical depth and scenic beauty makes New Calton Burial Ground a compelling destination for both reflection and exploration, offering a peaceful escape from the city's more crowded attractions.
Unique Features and Local Lore
Furthermore, like many historic cemeteries in Edinburgh, New Calton Burial Ground has a connection to the infamous history of body-snatching. The presence of watch-towers in Edinburgh's older cemeteries was a direct response to the illicit trade of corpses for medical research. While not as prominent as in some other locations, the context of such historical practices adds to the atmosphere and intrigue of these resting places.
The inscriptions on the gravestones themselves are a treasure trove of information. Many visitors are struck by the often tragically short lifespans recorded, offering a stark reminder of the health challenges and mortality rates of past centuries. This personal connection to the past, through the stories etched in stone, is a key reason why many find New Calton Burial Ground so captivating.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit