St Anthony's Chapel Ruins Edinburgh
Explore the atmospheric 15th-century ruins of St. Anthony's Chapel, perched high in Holyrood Park, offering spectacular panoramic views of Edinburgh.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos
St Anthony's Chapel Ruins Edinburgh
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the atmospheric 15th-century ruins of St. Anthony's Chapel, perched high in Holyrood Park, offering spectacular panoramic views of Edinburgh.
"The ruins are minimal, but the surrounding views are phenomenal and make it worth the climb."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Rocky, uneven paths require good walking shoes. Avoid sandals or heels!
🧥 Dress for Wind & Rain
Edinburgh weather is changeable. Pack layers and waterproofs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Summit of the hill
Breathtaking 360-degree views of Edinburgh, including the Palace of Holyroodhouse and St. Margaret's Loch.
Historic Medieval Ruins
Holyrood Park
Explore the remnants of a 15th-century chapel, offering a glimpse into Edinburgh's past.
Sunrise and Sunset Spectacle
Summit of the hill
The ruins are particularly magical at dawn and dusk, offering stunning light for photos.
Planning Your Visit
Wear Sensible Shoes
Check the Weather & Dress Accordingly
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Rocky, uneven paths require good walking shoes. Avoid sandals or heels!
🧥 Dress for Wind & Rain
Edinburgh weather is changeable. Pack layers and waterproofs.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most stunning views and photos.
🚶♀️ Easy Climb, Big Reward
A short, manageable hike offers incredible city vistas.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Rocky, uneven paths require good walking shoes. Avoid sandals or heels!
🧥 Dress for Wind & Rain
Edinburgh weather is changeable. Pack layers and waterproofs.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most stunning views and photos.
🚶♀️ Easy Climb, Big Reward
A short, manageable hike offers incredible city vistas.
💧 Bring Water
Especially if combining with Arthur's Seat or Salisbury Crags.
🚫 Not for Mobility Issues
Steep, uneven paths make it inaccessible for wheelchairs/mobility aids.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh from St. Anthony's Chapel Ruins, especially during sunrise and sunset. While the ruins themselves are minimal, the historical atmosphere and the rewarding, relatively easy climb make it a highly recommended stop within Holyrood Park. Be prepared for windy conditions and uneven terrain.
"Located in Holyrood Park only minutes away from the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The ruins are about a five-minute climb which is not difficult for most near the paths for Salisbury Crags and Arthur’s Seat.
We stopped here on our way up to Arthur’s Seat and were welcomed by ancient ruins of a 15th century church atop a hill and beautiful panoramic views of the city and St. Margaret’s Loch. It is especially pretty at sunrise and sunset.
Although some may climb or scale the hill to get to the ruins, there is a clear path. Make sure you look at a map of the park as there are clear differences in access and the level of climb difficulty for the various sites within it. The weather is usually windy and wet and the terrain is rocky, uneven and slippery at times. Make sure to wear sensible walking shoes with a tread, if possible, and appropriate wind/rainwear and bring some water if you intend on including Salisbury Crags and Arthur's Seat to your visit. Absolutely worth the visit if you can and you're up to it. The views are phenomenal from all hill tops.
Access is free and there is car park available at the foot of the park near the Palace. Not wheelchair accessible nor recommended for those with mobility issues."
Luisa Kuarsingh
"This place is gorgeous— come at sunrise or sunset. It’s such a quick hike up and you get the benefits of the park without a huge time commitment. Whole park is a must— hike everything if you can."
E Creighton
"These ruins are in a remarkable location. It is well worth the short climb to come and see and take in the views when you are at it. The history of the Chapel is obscure but is thought to date as far back as the 15th century. If walls could talk. There is not much left but the surrounding views make it worthwhile."
Allan MacIver
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Anthony's Chapel Ruins are located within Holyrood Park. You can reach the park entrance near the Palace of Holyroodhouse by public transport, such as bus routes 33 or 49. From there, it's a walk into the park to find the ruins.
Yes, there is a car park available at the foot of Holyrood Park, near the Palace of Holyroodhouse. From there, you'll need to walk into the park to reach the ruins.
No, you cannot drive directly to the ruins. Access to St. Anthony's Chapel Ruins is on foot only, as it's situated within Holyrood Park.
St. Anthony's Chapel Ruins are located on the slopes of Arthur's Seat, making it a popular stop for those hiking the famous hill. You can easily combine a visit to the ruins with a hike up Arthur's Seat.
The climb to the ruins from the base of Holyrood Park is generally considered a short and easy hike, often taking around 15-30 minutes depending on your pace and starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to St. Anthony's Chapel Ruins and Holyrood Park is completely free. You do not need to purchase any tickets.
Holyrood Park, and therefore St. Anthony's Chapel Ruins, is open to the public year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times.
Unfortunately, St. Anthony's Chapel Ruins are not wheelchair accessible due to the steep, uneven, and rocky terrain of Holyrood Park.
The paths are steep and uneven, making it challenging for those with significant mobility issues. It's recommended to assess your fitness level before attempting the climb.
No, there is no entrance fee for Holyrood Park. The park and all its attractions, including St. Anthony's Chapel Ruins, are free to explore.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, creating a magical atmosphere. The 'golden hour' before sunset provides beautiful warm light.
You'll get stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh city, including the Palace of Holyroodhouse, St. Margaret's Loch, and the surrounding landscape of Holyrood Park.
Absolutely! The romantic ruins and breathtaking views make it a popular spot for elopements and couple's photoshoots, especially at sunset.
Drone usage in Holyrood Park may be restricted. It's best to check current regulations with Historic Environment Scotland or the City of Edinburgh Council before flying a drone.
Experiment with different angles, including wide shots to capture the panoramic views and closer shots to highlight the stonework of the ruins. The contrast between the ancient stones and the modern city is striking.
🎫 🚶♀️ Hiking & Activities
The climb is generally considered easy to moderate, taking about 15-30 minutes. It's a good option for those who want a rewarding view without the full commitment of climbing Arthur's Seat.
Yes, it's very common to visit the ruins as part of a hike up Arthur's Seat. They are located on the slopes of the hill.
You can explore other parts of Holyrood Park, including Salisbury Crags, St. Margaret's Loch, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes with good grip. Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly, and bring a waterproof jacket.
It's generally not recommended to hike back down in the dark due to uneven footing and poor light. Consider visiting earlier in the day or ensuring you have adequate lighting if staying for sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and water, as there are no facilities on the hill. Combining the visit with a walk around St. Margaret's Loch or a less strenuous part of Holyrood Park might be a good idea if younger children tire easily. The historical aspect of the ruins can also spark curiosity about the past.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Your main expenses will be transportation to Holyrood Park and perhaps a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the scenery. This makes it an ideal activity for those looking to experience Edinburgh's beauty and history without breaking the bank.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
From elopement shoots to cosplay backdrops, the ruins offer a unique and evocative setting. Don't forget to capture the details of the stonework and the interplay of light and shadow. The accessibility, despite the terrain, makes it a worthwhile endeavor for capturing stunning visual content.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of St. Anthony's Chapel Ruins
Visiting these ruins provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and imagine life in Edinburgh centuries ago. The site's location, offering commanding views over the city, suggests it was chosen for both its spiritual significance and its commanding presence. The erosion and decay of the ruins are a testament to the passage of time, yet they retain a powerful atmosphere.
Many visitors are drawn to the ruins not just for their historical value but also for the sense of discovery and the dramatic backdrop they provide. The blend of history, nature, and stunning vistas makes St. Anthony's Chapel Ruins a compelling stop for anyone exploring Holyrood Park.
Navigating Holyrood Park and Access
From the park entrance, a network of paths leads to various points of interest, including the ruins, Salisbury Crags, and Arthur's Seat. While the climb to St. Anthony's Chapel Ruins is relatively short and manageable for most, the terrain can be steep, rocky, and uneven. It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear with good grip, as the paths can become slippery, especially after rain.
For those planning to combine their visit with a hike up Arthur's Seat, it's worth noting that the climb can be more strenuous. Redditors often advise tackling Arthur's Seat in the morning to avoid walking down in the dark and to allow ample time for exploring other parts of the city.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at the Ruins
Many visitors, including cosplayers and eloping couples, find the ruins to be an incredibly atmospheric and photogenic location. The contrast between the weathered ruins and the vibrant city skyline in the background offers unique compositions. Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, the views are sure to impress.
+1When planning your photoshoot, consider the time of day for the best light and the weather conditions. While sunny days offer clear views, a bit of mist or dramatic clouds can add to the moody, historic feel of the ruins. Remember to wear sturdy shoes, as you'll likely be navigating uneven ground to find the perfect shot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit