Name: The geology of Holyrood Park
Start: 2026-02-22T12:00:00+00:00
End: 2026-02-22T14:00:00+00:00
Location: Holyrood Park, Edinburgh, Scotland

Walk Through Deep Time: A Geology Tour of Holyrood Park, Edinburgh with @ScottishGeologist
Join @ScottishGeologist for an unforgettable geology tour of Holyrood Park, home to Arthurs Seat, Salisbury Crags, and some of the most spectacular volcanic landscapes in Scotland. Explore the story of fire and ice that shaped Edinburghs dramatic scenery, from ancient eruptions to Ice Age sculpting. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply curious, this tour will reveal the deep history beneath your feet.
What to Expect
🌋 Explore an Ancient Volcano
Step onto the remains of Arthurs Seat, an extinct volcano that erupted over 340 million years ago during the Carboniferous period. Learn about the forces that shaped this once-mighty volcano and how it became the heart of Edinburghs landscape.
🪨 Discover Huttons Influence on Modern Geology
Visit Salisbury Crags, a key site in geological history where James Hutton, the father of modern geology, studied the igneous intrusions that helped prove his revolutionary theories about deep time and the Earthâ€™s dynamic processes.
❄️ Glacial Sculpting and Ice Age Features
See how Ice Age glaciers carved the landscape, creating the distinctive ridge of Salisbury Crags and the crag-and-tail formation of Arthurâ€™s Seat that protected the foundations of Edinburgh Castle.
🪨 Rock Exploration
Examine ancient sedimentary rocks around Holyrood Park that contain traces of prehistoric life. Learn how the changing environments of Scotlandâ€™s pastâ€”from volcanic islands to tropical swampsâ€”are recorded in the rocks.
Guided Walk Through Edinburghs Natural History
Enjoy a scenic and informative walk through the park, with hands-on geology activities, rock identification, and expert interpretation of the landscapes hidden history.
Who Should Attend?
This tour is perfect for geology enthusiasts, students, hikers, and anyone with an interest in Edinburghs natural and scientific heritage. No prior knowledge is needed just bring your curiosity and comfortable walking shoes!
Event Details
Location: Holyrood Park, Edinburgh
Date: 22nd February 2026
Time: 12:00-14:00
Price: meet us there - £25. Transport from Glasgow - £40
Why Join This Tour?
Led by the experienced @ScottishGeologist, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the geological wonders of Edinburgh, connecting science, history, and breathtaking landscapes. From volcanic eruptions to glacial forces, Holyrood Park is a natural time capsule waiting to be explored.
A guided geology tour around Arthur’s Seat offers a fascinating journey through the region’s volcanic and sedimentary history. During the tour, you explore the extinct volcano that forms the iconic hill, learn about the rock formations, and discover how volcanic activity shaped the landscape 340 million years ago. The guide also covers the historical significance of the area, including James Hutton’s groundbreaking work, which contributed to the foundations of modern geology.
The tour typically takes about two hours, with options for a more strenuous climb to the summit or a lower-level route for those preferring an easier walk. Key geological features include the volcanic basalt layers and sedimentary formations, which reveal ancient environments such as shallow lagoons and volcanic eruptions.
However, there are some risks associated with the tour:
1. Rough Terrain: The paths can be uneven, especially near the summit and rocky sections, posing risks of slips or trips, particularly in wet or windy conditions.
2. Weather Conditions: Edinburgh’s weather can change rapidly, making the higher elevations exposed to strong winds, rain, or fog, which can reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents.
3. Steep Slopes: The ascent to the summit involves steep climbs, which might be challenging for people with limited mobility or fitness levels.
4. Footwear and Clothing: Without proper footwear and warm, waterproof clothing, participants could face discomfort or injury due to cold or wet conditions.