[2025 Edinburgh Attraction] Travel Guide for Dugald Stewart Monument (Updated Oct)

#hellohalloween A short but spirited climb—20 to 30 minutes up the winding stairs or steep path—and suddenly, the city unfolds like a storybook. Perched atop Calton Hill, the Dugald Stewart Monument greets you with its classical silhouette, echoing ancient Greece yet rooted in Scottish pride. Standing beside its weathered columns, I felt like I’d stepped into a painting. The monument itself faces the city like a thoughtful observer, framing Edinburgh’s skyline with effortless grace. From this vantage point, the view is nothing short of cinematic: the spires of the Old Town, the sweep of Princes Street, and the distant shimmer of the Firth of Forth. It’s no wonder this spot is one of the most photographed in the city. I took my best shot of the trip here—sunlight brushing the rooftops, shadows dancing across the cobbled streets below. The monument doesn’t just offer a view; it offers a moment of stillness, perspective, and awe.

Two of the most impressive landmarks in Edinburgh are the Scott Monument and the Dugald Stewart Monument. Both commemorate figures who shaped Scotland's cultural and intellectual heritage. The Scott Monument, towering over Princes Street Gardens, was built to honor Sir Walter Scott, a novelist and poet. His works, such as Ivanhoe and Waverley, introduced Scotland's history and landscapes to readers worldwide 📚🌄. The Gothic spire exudes a majestic and awe-inspiring aura, and climbing to the top offers one of the best panoramic views of the city. On Calton Hill stands the Dugald Stewart Monument, dedicated to the philosopher Dugald Stewart. A key figure of the Scottish Enlightenment, the monument's classical Greek design reflects the intellectual spirit of the era. During that time, Edinburgh was known as the "Athens of the North" 🏛️💡. These two monuments are not merely beautiful architectural structures. They symbolize the legacy of two individuals who defined Scotland's identity and its place in the world through literature and philosophy. Walking between them, one can feel the weight of ideas and imagination etched into the stone.

Watching the sunset from Calton Hill is an unmissable experience in Edinburgh. The golden light reflecting off the stone buildings, the majestic castle standing in the distance, and the city skyline blending with the horizon create a breathtakingly beautiful scene 🌅🏰. As the sun sets, the entire city seems to glow. But the charm of Calton Hill is not just in its views. The hill is home to remarkable historical monuments. The National Monument, reminiscent of the Parthenon in Athens, adds grandeur to the hill, while the Nelson Monument offers even more stunning views from its summit. Additionally, the Dugald Stewart Monument provides the perfect frame for capturing Edinburgh's most iconic landscape photos 📸🏛️. What makes Calton Hill special is the harmony of natural beauty and cultural depth. Sitting here, you not only gaze upon the city but also feel its history and identity. Tip: Arrive a bit early before sunset to explore the monuments, then find your favorite spot to enjoy the moment as the sky transforms 🌄✨.

#myfavoriteroute Catching the train to Edinburgh feels like boarding a moving postcard. Leaving the urban buzz of Manchester or Birmingham behind, the train slowly climbs its way north—through fields, stone villages, and the open arms of the Lake District. Somewhere between Preston and Penrith, the scenery shifts. Green hills rise into view, dotted with dry-stone walls and solitary sheep. Lakes appear, unexpectedly—silent and silver, nestled between the fells. On clear days, the sun turns the water into mirrors; on rainy ones, the mist makes the mountains look older, almost mythical. The train curves gently through this landscape, never too fast—like it knows you’ll want to look. From your window, you might spot Windermere or Ullswater in the distance, or small, moss-covered stations with names that sound like poetry: Oxenholme, Shap, Tebay. There’s a sense of calm here that no city can offer. Even fellow passengers seem to fall quiet, pulled into the view. As the journey continues north, the land stretches wider, the sky opens up, and soon the first signs of Scotland begin to appear: stone farmhouses, hilltops tinged with heather, and that sudden thrill of crossing the border by rail—no passport needed, just attention.

Do take a walk around the old and new town to see the amazingly well preserved buildings.

Edinburgh is one of my favourite cities to visit and Calton hill is one of the best places to catch a glorious sunset. I love to go up there an hour before sunset and take in all the views it has to offer. You can see Edinburgh castle in the distance and also get great views of Arthur’s seat. You can also spend some time enjoying the monuments up there along with the observatory.

#hikingtrails Hiking to Calton Hill in Edinburgh is a rewarding experience, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. The trail is relatively short and easy, making it suitable for hikers of all ages and fitness levels. Starting near Regent Road, the well-maintained path takes you through lush greenery as you gradually ascend to the top. Along the way, you’ll pass iconic monuments such as the National Monument, Nelson Monument, and the Dugald Stewart Monument, each rich in history. Once you reach the summit, you’re greeted with breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle, the Scott Monument, and the Balmoral Hotel, with the Firth of Forth and surrounding hills in the distance. The view is especially spectacular during sunrise or sunset when the city is bathed in golden light. The hike to Calton Hill is a perfect way to appreciate Edinburgh’s beauty, combining nature, history, and breathtaking scenery all in one. #100waysoftravel #uktrip