Timeline
14:55
Pick up a snack or drink at Valvona & Crolla. This legendary Italian deli is open from 09:00 to 18:00, so you will have plenty of time to grab something before the sun goes down.
15:40
Walk up to Calton Hill. It is a short climb that rewards you with panoramic views of the city. The National Monument and Nelson’s Tower frame the skyline perfectly as the light begins to soften.
16:10
Head to London Road Gardens for the moment. Sit in the gardens facing west-southwest. At 16:10 on 15 January, the sun dips below the horizon, casting a final warm glow over the city.
16:55
End the evening with a pint at The Cask & Barrel. This traditional pub is just a short walk away and stays open until 23:00 on weekdays, making it a perfect spot to warm up and reflect on the view.
Local tip
The walk from the deli to the hill is steep. Take your time and enjoy the climb. The gardens offer a seated perspective that is less crowded than the hilltop itself.
Check before you go
- Valvona & Crolla closes at 18:00.
- The Cask & Barrel is open until 23:00 on Monday to Thursday.
Worth knowing
- Valvona & Crolla is open at 14:55 only on Mo, Tu, We, Th, Fr, Sa
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Edinburgh (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).