The Mound, Edinburgh - a large hill with a sky filled with clouds
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The Mound Edinburgh

4.8
·37 reviews·, United Kingdom

An iconic slope connecting Edinburgh's Old and New Towns, home to major art galleries and offering stunning city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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The Mound, Edinburgh - a large hill with a sky filled with clouds

The Mound Edinburgh

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic slope connecting Edinburgh's Old and New Towns, home to major art galleries and offering stunning city views.

4.8
(37 reviews)

"The Mound has picturesque views for one! It is one of the best places in Edinburgh for panoramic views."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Art Galleries

Many national galleries here are free! Explore world-class art without spending a penny. :art:

Stunning City Vistas

Climb to the museum's rooftop for phenomenal, glorious city views. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

National Gallery of Scotland

National Gallery of Scotland

On The Mound

Explore masterpieces from Scottish and European artists. A must-see for art enthusiasts.

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

From The Mound's upper levels

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Princes Street Gardens, Scott Monument, and Edinburgh Castle.

Royal Scottish Academy

Royal Scottish Academy

On The Mound

Discover contemporary and historical Scottish art exhibitions in this striking building.

Planning Your Visit

Connect Old and New Towns

The Mound is a vital link between Edinburgh's historic Old Town and its elegant New Town. It's an artificial slope housing key institutions, offering stunning views and a unique perspective on the city's architecture. Plan to walk across it to appreciate its significance and the surrounding landmarks.

Free Cultural Hub

Home to the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy, The Mound is a cultural hotspot. Many of the national galleries in Edinburgh offer free admission, making it an excellent spot for art lovers on a budget. Check opening times before you visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The perfect Edinburgh Scotland Itinerary! It’s like Hogwarts in real life and is even better than I imagined!! Here are some of my favorite things to do during a weekend in Edinburgh! P.s. While we do mentiom Harry Potter a few times, we do not support JK and she makes no money off of this!! #e#edinburghs#Scotlands#scotlandtravele#edinburghscotlandh#harrypotterh#hogwartsd#diagonalleyw#weekendg...
@followmeaway
240.9K likes • 4.4M views

Free Art Galleries

Many national galleries here are free! Explore world-class art without spending a penny. :art:

Stunning City Vistas

Climb to the museum's rooftop for phenomenal, glorious city views. :camerawithflash:

When is the best time to visit Edinburgh? That's a question asked all the time! Let's break down what to expect in spring. Remember: weather, crowds, and your budget are all connected when planning your trip. Edinburgh experience: Spring (March-May): Weather: Mild with increasing temperatures (7-13°C (or 45°-55°F), but still expect some rain. Flowers: Enjoy blooming trees and flowers, with cherr...
@rhonatheunicorn
231.7K likes • 1.6M views
EDINBURGH!!!!! What the HECK was that?! 😭 Something special happened tonight 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 The atmosphere and energy @the_mound_ with @innisandgunn was UNREAL! If you know you know 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿✨ #soundonthemound #runrig #scottishmusic #edinburgh #fringe #runrig
thelaurettes
165 likes • 3.8K views

Connects Old & New

Walk The Mound to easily transition between Edinburgh's historic and modern districts. :walking:

Hogwarts Vibes

Feel like you're in Hogwarts! Edinburgh's architecture is truly magical. :magic_wand:

Hidden gems of Edinburgh When people think of Edinburgh they often picture the Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat and Edinburgh Castle. But anyone who has spent a lot of time in this city will know there are many other local spots that make this city worth a visit. So, we’ve collated five of our favourite hidden gems for visitors looking to experience the city like a local: 📍Jupiter Artland - spend a day w...
@traveltwo
128.1K likes • 1.7M views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Art Galleries

Many national galleries here are free! Explore world-class art without spending a penny. :art:

Stunning City Vistas

Climb to the museum's rooftop for phenomenal, glorious city views. :camerawithflash:

Connects Old & New

Walk The Mound to easily transition between Edinburgh's historic and modern districts. :walking:

Hogwarts Vibes

Feel like you're in Hogwarts! Edinburgh's architecture is truly magical. :magic_wand:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(37 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find The Mound to be a picturesque and essential connection between Edinburgh's Old and New Towns. It's praised for its stunning views of the castle and gardens, as well as its cultural institutions like the National Gallery. While busy, it's considered a must-visit for its scenic beauty and accessibility to key landmarks.

"It's a serene experience to be there... Sit at a corner and see the princess street and Scott monument from the top and Edinburgh Castle from below... One nice stop over is compulsory here.... The University of Edinburgh housing and other buildings around it giving the victorian era feel is mesmerising..."

Madiha Salam

"Lovely small museum nice"

Toby Clifford

"Notable street in Edinburgh."

Konstantinos Barlas

What People Like

Picturesque views
Free art galleries
Connects city areas

What People Dislike

Can be busy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Mound is centrally located, easily accessible on foot from Princes Street and the Royal Mile. It connects the Old and New Towns. If arriving by train, it's a short walk from Waverley Station. Numerous bus routes also stop nearby. TikTok

The Mound is an artificial slope, so while it connects different levels, it can be steep. The National Gallery of Scotland and other institutions on The Mound generally have accessible entrances and facilities. Reddit

Driving directly onto The Mound is restricted. There are several car parks nearby, including Waverley Station and St James Quarter, but walking is often the easiest way to explore this area. TikTok

Walking is the best way to experience The Mound and its surroundings. Take your time to admire the architecture, enjoy the views, and pop into the galleries. TikTok

Yes, The Mound is very close to major public transport hubs. Waverley Train Station is a short walk away, and numerous bus stops are located on Princes Street and George IV Bridge. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Mound itself is a public thoroughfare and does not require a ticket. However, entry fees may apply for specific exhibitions within the National Gallery of Scotland or the Royal Scottish Academy. Reddit

Yes, the National Gallery of Scotland and the Portrait Gallery are free to enter, though special exhibitions might have a charge. This makes it a great budget-friendly option. Reddit

Opening hours vary for the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy. It's best to check their official websites for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

For special exhibitions at the galleries on The Mound, booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee entry and avoid queues. Reddit

Accessing the rooftop view at the National Museum of Scotland (near The Mound) is generally free. Take the Terrace Lift to the 7th floor for phenomenal city vistas. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Mound offers access to the National Gallery of Scotland, the Royal Scottish Academy, and provides stunning views of Princes Street Gardens and Edinburgh Castle. It's a great place to soak in the city's atmosphere. TikTok

From The Mound, you get picturesque views of Princes Street, the Scott Monument, and Edinburgh Castle. The rooftop of the National Museum of Scotland nearby offers even more expansive panoramic views. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The Mound offers iconic views of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens, especially beautiful during golden hour. The architecture of the galleries is also very photogenic. TikTok

While The Mound itself is primarily cultural institutions, the surrounding areas offer unique shops. TikTok creators have highlighted magical bookstores and themed bars nearby. TikTok+1

The Mound is an artificial slope created in the late 18th century to connect the Old and New Towns. It's a significant piece of Edinburgh's urban planning and a hub for arts and culture. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the area around The Mound has many dining options. From cafes within the galleries to restaurants on Princes Street and in the Old Town, you'll find plenty to choose from. TikTok

The National Gallery of Scotland has a cafe, and there are numerous cafes and eateries on nearby Princes Street and in the Old Town, perfect for a quick bite or coffee break. TikTok

Edinburgh is known for its creative food scene. You can find everything from traditional Scottish fare to innovative international cuisine, including themed bars and restaurants with unique concepts. TikTok+1

Popular choices include traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties, as well as modern cuisine, seafood, and international flavors. Many places offer locally sourced ingredients. TikTok+1

Yes, you can find budget-friendly options like cafes, bakeries, and casual eateries in the surrounding streets. The National Galleries also offer free entry, saving money for food. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Mound itself offers great angles of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens. The steps leading up to the National Gallery are also picturesque. TikTok

Late afternoon during the 'golden hour' provides beautiful lighting for photos. Weekday mornings are also good for fewer crowds and softer light. TikTok

Photography policies vary within the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy. Generally, non-flash photography is allowed for personal use, but check specific exhibition rules. Reddit

You can photograph Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens, Scott Monument, and the surrounding Victorian architecture of the Old and New Towns. TikTok+1

Explore the smaller streets and closes off the Royal Mile for unique perspectives. The rooftop of the National Museum of Scotland offers a less common, but spectacular, city panorama. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Mound offers a blend of culture and views that can appeal to families. The National Gallery of Scotland has interactive elements and engaging artworks that can capture children's imaginations. Remember that general admission is free, which is a huge plus for family budgets. Reddit

Beyond the galleries, the Princes Street Gardens below The Mound are a fantastic place for kids to run around and play. The National Museum of Scotland nearby also has engaging exhibits for various ages, and its free rooftop view is a fun adventure for the whole family. Pack some snacks and make a day of exploring this central Edinburgh hub. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Mound is a dream for budget travelers! The National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy offer free entry to their main collections, allowing you to immerse yourself in art without spending a penny. Reddit

Beyond the galleries, simply walking across The Mound provides incredible views of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens for free. For even more spectacular, cost-free panoramas, head to the rooftop of the nearby National Museum of Scotland. This area is also a great starting point for exploring other free attractions in the city. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Mound: A Bridge Between Worlds

The Mound is more than just a slope; it's a feat of 18th-century engineering that physically and symbolically connects Edinburgh's medieval Old Town with its Georgian New Town. Created by leveling earth from the foundations of the new city, it provides a crucial artery for pedestrians and offers stunning visual juxtapositions of architectural styles. Walking its path allows you to appreciate the city's layered history and urban planning.

Today, The Mound is a cultural nexus, home to the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy. These institutions draw visitors with their impressive collections and exhibitions, making The Mound a destination for art lovers. The presence of these galleries underscores Edinburgh's status as a vibrant cultural capital. TikTok

Beyond its architectural and artistic significance, The Mound offers some of the most iconic panoramic views in Edinburgh. From its vantage points, you can capture breathtaking shots of Princes Street Gardens, the Scott Monument, and the majestic Edinburgh Castle perched on its volcanic rock. It's a prime spot for photography, especially during the 'golden hour' when the city is bathed in warm light. TikTokReddit

Experiencing Edinburgh's Art Scene on The Mound

The Mound is a cornerstone of Edinburgh's thriving art scene, primarily due to the presence of the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy. The National Gallery houses an extensive collection of Scottish and European art, featuring masterpieces by artists like Ramsay, Raeburn, Vermeer, and Monet. Best of all, general admission to the gallery is free, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone. Reddit

The Royal Scottish Academy (RSA), located adjacent to the National Gallery, showcases contemporary and historical Scottish art through its exhibitions and annual exhibition. It's a space that champions Scottish artists and provides a platform for emerging talent. Visitors can often find unique pieces and engage with the current artistic landscape of Scotland. Reddit

For those looking for an even broader perspective, the National Museum of Scotland is a short walk away and offers a rooftop terrace with phenomenal, free panoramic views of the city. This elevated viewpoint provides a different, yet equally stunning, photographic opportunity and a chance to orient yourself with the city's layout. Reddit

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