Best spots in Edinburgh to view Wednesday's historic solar eclipse including Arthur's Seat and Blackford Hill
Plenty of locations in and around the city will be offering panoramic views of the sky during Wednesday evening’s solar eclipse
People across the country will be looking to get the best view of this week’s historic solar eclipse, with some hotspots to catch the event in Edinburgh.
Up to 91 per cent of the sun will be covered by the moon on the evening of Wednesday, August 12 in the first solar eclipse since 1999.
The eclipse is expected to start between 6.01pm and 6.10pm on Wednesday evening and will last around two hours in total.
The peak of the eclipse, which won’t be seen again for 54 years, will be at around 7.05pm.
Those wanting to view the solar eclipse are being reminded to never look directly at the sun, even when the moon is covering it. Certified eclipse glasses - with the safety certification ISO 12312-2 or ISO 12312-2:2015 - can be worn to view the event, or you can even make a homemade pinhole projector.
With many venturing out to experience the solar event, here are some of the spots you can visit in and around Edinburgh for the best view.
Calton Hill
Members of the Astronomical Society of Edinburgh will be hosting visitors to the Edinburgh Playfair Observatory on Calton Hill and will be on hand to lend their expertise about the eclipse.
As well as a lesson in astronomy, Calton Hill itself offers panoramic views of the Edinburgh skyline and the dramatic backdrop which will give any photographs a moody atmosphere.
Arthur’s Seat/Holyrood Park
For those willing to make the climb, Arthur’s Seat extends even higher into the Edinburgh sky and offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city and the sky above.
However, Holyrood Park also offers some spectacular views throughout for those who don’t want to make the complete ascent of Arthur’s Seat.
Blackford Hill
Blackford Hill is set to be a popular location to experience Wednesday’s solar eclipse.
There’s a reason that the Royal Observatory Edinburgh calls it home, with the high elevation and clear views making for an ideal position if you can find a spot.
Dirleton Solar Walk
Located just outside Edinburgh in North Berwick, the Dirleton Solar Walk is set to be a popular spot for those wanting to experience the solar eclipse on Wednesday.
As a bonus, certified eclipse glasses will be handed out as part of an official event which will allow you to look at the solar eclipse with full protection. Glasses can be reserved in advance until availability lasts.
Craiglockhart Hill
For quieter crowds, you might find some luck at Craiglockhart Hill to the south-west of Edinburgh city centre.
While the elevation won’t be as high as locations such as Arthur’s Seat or Blackford Hill, the green space will still offer views of the solar eclipse.
Camera Obscura
Take in the sights on Wednesday evening at Camera Obscura right in the middle of Edinburgh city centre.
The attraction, which boasts panoramic views of the city, is hosting a special event to mark the first solar eclipse in almost 27 years with staff and certified eclipse glasses on hand to make sure you spot the historic moment safely.