An opportunity to discover Edinburgh’s volcano during your walk in Holyrood Park, and to celebrate the 300th Birthday of James Hutton, the father of modern geology, in the place where many of his crucial observations were made!

Take a geological walk through the 340 million year history of Arthur’s Seat, from tropical lagoons to volcanic eruptions, and from glacial erosion to the Scottish Enlightenment. At this drop-in event, SGT geologists and Holyrood Park Rangers will interpret the landscape and explain the geology which creates this unique feature in the heart of the city. Visit our stand adjacent to the Holyrood Palace carpark and learn about fossils originating from the time that the Arthur’s Seat volcano was erupting. Then pick up a map of the park, and look out for our volunteers (wearing high-vis jackets and blue tee shirts) who will be stationed at various localities and will be able to explain the geological features found at each location. Meanwhile, Holyrood Park Rangers will lead a range of fun geology experiments and activities in the Holyrood Park Education Centre.

Free drop-in event, no booking required.

An event in the Scottish Geology Festival 2026, organised by the Scottish Geology Trust. Please support us: Discover – Support – Join.