First time visiting National Monument of Scotland on Calton Hill, Edinburgh? This guide covers opening hours, cost, parking, accessibility, and how to get there.
History and overview of the National Monument of Scotland
The National Monument of Scotland stands on Calton Hill in Edinburgh, Scotland. It was conceived as a memorial to Scottish soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars.
Construction began in 1826, but the project was never completed. Funds ran out by 1829, leaving it as an unfinished ‘Parthenon’ of Edinburgh.
The architects were Charles Robert Cockerell and William Henry Playfair, whose design contributes to Edinburgh’s nickname as the “Athens of the North.”
Today, the monument forms part of a dramatic skyline on Calton Hill, surrounded by other landmarks such as the Nelson Monument and the Dugald Stewart Monument.
How to get to the National Monument of Scotland
The monument is located on Calton Hill, Edinburgh.
Transport options:
- Walking: You can reach the top of Calton Hill via stairs from Regent Road or via footpaths from Royal Terrace.
- Vehicle drop-off: There is a gated access road for drop-off, but no general parking at the top — except for blue badge holders.
- Paid parking nearby: Use parking on Regent Road or at Q-Park Omni, then walk up.
Five great things to do while you’re in Edinburgh
Discover the Old Town’s underground vaults on a walking tour.
- Follow the Da Vinci Code on a Rosslyn Chapel day tour.
- Learn dozens of stories on a guided walk of the Royal Mile and Old Town.
- Explore the best places to eat in Edinburgh on a food tour.
- Let an expert guide take you around Edinburgh’s Harry Potter locations.
National Monument of Scotland: Opening hours and cost
Opening hours: Calton Hill and the National Monument are freely accessible 24 hours a day for those prepared to walk up. Obviously, though, you’ll need to be more careful due to uneven ground and limited lighting after dark.
Cost: There is no admission fee to access the monument.
Parking and accessibility
Parking: There is very limited parking at the top of Calton Hill, reserved for blue badge holders.
Accessibility: According to the hill’s management plan, vehicular access for disabled visitors is controlled and limited. The hill’s gradients are steep in places, which may restrict movement for some.
The area contains uneven paths and steps. Visitors are advised that some parts are more difficult for wheelchair users.
Books set in Edinburgh
If you want to get a good feel for Edinburgh before visiting, it’s worth reading a book or two set there. Options include…
- Muriel Spark’s The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie – an inspirational teacher changes lives with equal parts comedy and tragedy.
- The Heart of Midlothian – arguably Sir Walter Scott’s finest work.
- Ian Rankin’s Rebus books – gripping, grouchy detective novels.
- Irvine Welsh’s Trainspotting series – for the city’s gritty side.
- David Nicholls’ One Day – an innovative and emotive romance, tracked by the same date each year.
The links above are to Amazon. You can probably get them all cheaper at World of Books, which is where I buy most of my books.
Best times to visit and photography tips
For smaller crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. The hill offers expansive views over Edinburgh.
The monument itself provides a strong classical silhouette — photographers often capture it framed against the skyline or city views.
Because the structure is incomplete, its ruinous beauty makes it particularly striking in soft light or at sunset.
Nearby attractions you can combine with the National Monument
There are several other historic spots on Calton Hill worth combining into your visit:
- Nelson Monument: A tower commemorating Admiral Nelson, with views across the city.
- Dugald Stewart Monument: A circular memorial nearby, designed by Playfair.
- Other viewpoints on Calton Hill: The hill also features south- and north-facing vantage points offering panoramic cityscapes.
FAQ: Practical visitor information for the National Monument
Is there an entry fee?
No – access to Calton Hill and its monuments is without charge.
Are there toilets nearby?
Calton Hill itself has limited public facilities, and portable toilets have been installed nearby at times.
Can I drive up to the hill?
You can be dropped off via the gated hill road, but parking is very restricted and mainly for blue badge holders.
Is it wheelchair-friendly?
The hill access is steep, and while some paths are manageable, not all parts are suitable for wheelchairs. Controlled vehicle access helps, but gradient remains a challenge.
How long should I stay?
A visit typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how much you explore Calton Hill and surrounding monuments.
When is the best time for photography?
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer visitors. The unfinished nature of the monument makes for striking shots.
More Edinburgh travel
Other Edinburgh travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- National Museum of Scotland review: Which bit to visit first?
- How to get into Edinburgh Castle when the tickets have sold out.
- How to spend a perfect day in Edinburgh.
- The best things to do near Edinburgh Castle.
- The 8 best attractions and experiences in Edinburgh.
