Why You Should Visit Edinburgh’s Old Calton Burial Ground
Nestled on the slopes of Calton Hill in the heart of Edinburgh, Old Calton Burial Ground stands as one of the city’s most rewarding yet overlooked tourist attractions. Established in 1718, this historic burial ground offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Edinburgh’s past while providing a peaceful retreat from the city’s more crowded attractions. This quiet cemetery invites visitors to step back in time while contemplating the lives of those who shaped Scotland’s past.
A Must-Visit Historical Site
Old Calton Burial Ground, should be on every visitor’s Edinburgh itinerary. What makes it particularly tourist-friendly is it’s central location—just a short walk from Princes Street and Waverley Station. This means you can easily incorporate it into your day of sightseeing.
The cemetery’s elevated position rewards visitors with spectacular panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline, including Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat. These vistas alone make it worth the visit and offer perfect photo opportunities of Edinburgh.
Remarkable Monuments and Famous Residents
History enthusiasts will be delighted by the cemetery’s impressive collection of monuments. The towering 90-foot obelisk dedicated to the “Scottish Political Martyrs” is impossible to miss and tells a compelling story of the fight for democratic reform after they were transported to Australia in the 1790s for advocating parliamentary reform. The 90-foot monument erected in their honor stands as a testament to the struggle for democratic rights and political freedom.
If you have an interest in philosophy then you shouldn’t miss David Hume’s impressive mausoleum. As one of Scotland’s most influential thinkers, Hume’s circular Roman-style tomb is a highlight for intellectually-minded visitors.
American tourists will find a special connection at the Abraham Lincoln monument—the only memorial to American Civil War soldiers in Scotland. This striking statue featuring Lincoln with a freed slave, commemorating Scottish soldiers who fought for the Union Army. It’s a unique transatlantic historical link that surprises many international visitors and also the only statue of Lincoln in Scotland.
David Hume’s circular tomb
Perfect for Self-Guided Tours
What makes Old Calton Cemetery particularly appealing for tourists is that it’s completely free to enter and can be explored at your own pace. Unlike many of Edinburgh’s attractions, there are no queues, tickets, or time constraints. The cemetery is compact enough to explore thoroughly by yourself, making it a perfect addition to a busy sightseeing schedule.
Visitors can download free walking guides or use the signs scattered throughout the grounds to understand the significance of various monuments. The cemetery’s smaller size means it’s less overwhelming than Edinburgh’s larger Greyfriars Kirkyard, while still offering comparable historical importance.
A Photographer’s Paradise
For those who enjoy photography, Old Calton Burial Ground offers endless opportunities. The combination of weathered tombstones, dramatic monuments, and Edinburgh’s cityscape creates atmospherically moody scenes, especially in early morning light or the golden hour before sunset. In autumn, the cemetery becomes particularly photogenic as bright coloured fallen leaves add splashes of color to the gray stone.
Old Calton Burial Ground Watchtower, viewed below from the Waverly side
Visitor Information
Open to the public year-round during daylight hours, the cemetery is easily accessible via the main gate on Waterloo Place. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the terrain is uneven in places. While the cemetery has no facilities, numerous cafés and restaurants are within a five-minute walk on Waterloo Place, Princes Street and the St James’ Centre.
For tourists seeking authentic, historically rich experiences away from the crowds, Old Calton Cemetery offers an overlooked destination in Edinburgh with a perfect blend of culture, history, and tranquillity.
Martyr’s obelisk monument
Find out more about this hidden gem at:
Take a virtual tour at: https://tours.capturedrealities.com/share/collection/7lPxw?fs=1&vr=1&zoom=1&sd=1&thumbs=1&chromeless=1&logo=1&logosize=82
https://www.cockburnassociation.org.uk/openedinburgh/old-calton-burial-ground/
https://www.edinburghexpert.com/blog/edinburghs-graveyards-old-calton-burial-ground
https://canmore.org.uk/site/117080/edinburgh-calton-road-new-calton-burial-ground-watchtower