View from Nelson Monument

This view from the top of the Nelson Monument on Calton Hill sweeps across the rooftops of Edinburgh’s city centre from the Old Town to the New Town. The monument, built to commemorate Admiral Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar, was completed in 1816. It offers a complete 360 degree panorama view of the city and extends as far as the eye can see. Expect a moderate effort up the hill and then 143 stairs to the viewing platform. Admission by paid entry.

Facing in the same direction as the viewing platform at the Scott Monument (#35), this image works at the same time of day, for the same reasons. Arriving earlier in the day is best before the sun has moved into the frame. The earlier you go, the more light will fall onto the castle and east facing sides of the buildings in the frame. This is important because once those buildings are in shade it will negatively impact the overall look of the composition. Summer months work best as the trees are full and bright with colour. Make sure to walk around the viewing platform and try compositions in other directions too. A polariser can lift the sky, cut reflections from the trees and reduce haze in the distance depending on which way you shoot. Entry tickets are required to climb the monument.