Calton Hill is a 'must-see' when you visit Edinburgh and the ideal introduction to Edinburgh for its amazing views.
Local photographer, David, a resident of 50 years, will show you the best photography spots & views of the city, whilst guiding you around all its beautiful monuments, buildings, galleries & historic graveyards.
Along the way, you'll learn about some of Edinburgh's most interesting citizens, see some amazing classical buildings, and even visit an old watchtower which was used to look out for grave-robbers!
Built on an extinct volcano, to the east of Edinburgh's New Town, Calton Hill has been a public park since 1724. Countless generations of citizens have enjoyed its panoramic views and classical buildings, which gave Edinburgh its nickname the "Athens of The North".
David will show you all its highlights, including the National Monument, the Nelson Monument and the old Observatory, plus lots, lots more.
It's the ideal way to start your holiday in Edinburgh!
Before visiting Calton Hill, David will show you one of Edinburgh's most atmospheric & historic cemeteries - Old Calton Burial Ground. The final resting place of many famous Scots, David will show you some fascinating graves, including an Edinburgh Perfumer and a lady who's leg was buried 20 years before her! We'll also see the striking Martyrs' Monument, The statue of Abraham Lincoln and the Old Governors House of Old Calton Jail. David will show you some of his favourite views of Old Calton Hill, including Rock House, the old photographic studio of 'Hill & Adamson', the early Edinburgh photographers who pioneered the art of photography. Before leaving, we'll visit a secret part of the cemetery, very rarely visited by locals or visitors.
Completed in 1815, this intriguing tower (that looks like a telescope) was designed by Robert Burn to commemorate the Napoleonic Wars. We'll learn about the connections it has with the firing of the 1 O'clock Gun at Edinburgh Castle, and its original purpose, to provide a home for disabled seamen. David will also show you some spectacular views (& photography spots) of Princes Street and The Edinburgh Old Town, all the way to the Pentland Hills, with lots of helpful tips.
Started in 1826 and modelled on the Parthenon in Athens, the National Monument is one of Edinburgh's most striking monuments, built to commemorate Scots who died in the Napoleonic Wars. David will explain why it's often referred to as 'Edinburgh's Disgrace' and show you all the best angles for taking photos.
You will make your own way to the meeting points
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