On Wednesday evening, the UK will see its most dramatic partial solar eclipse in around three decades, with more than 90% of the sun set to be covered.
And while the full eclipse will only be visible in Iceland, the Balearic Islands and Northern Spain, the area where a partial eclipse will be visible stretches over almost the entirety of Europe. It is thought that the UK won’t experience another solar eclipse like this for 55 years.
In Edinburgh, the eclipse will last around two hours from 6pm and peak at 7.05pm on Wednesday evening.
Viewing the eclipse directly is possible, but those hoping to catch a glimpse are warned not to do so without certified eclipse glasses with the ISO 12312-2 or ISO 12312-2:2015 safety certification or a homemade pinhole projector.
Viewing the eclipse directly without the proper safety precautions is dangerous and can result in permanent blindness.
If you have taken the correct precautions, however, there are a few choice locations around Scotland’s capital which could afford scenic views of the sun as it dips behind the moon.
Calton Hill
Calton Hill is a popular location to watch the sun dip behind the Edinburgh skyline, and is home to the City Observatory, where visitors will be hosted by the Astronomical Society of Edinburgh, so is uniquely suited for eclipse chasers.
It might be worth making the hike early, however, as the spot will be popular with locals and tourists alike.
Blackford Hill
Blackford Hill and the surrounding Braid Hills, near Morningside, will be a popular spot on Wednesday night, with panoramic views of the city backgrounding the anticipated eclipse.
It is also home to the Royal Observatory Edinburgh, so any eclipse watchers who make the trip will be in good company.
Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is one of Edinburgh’s most popular tourist destinations for good reason: on clear days the 251-metre elevation affords a beautiful perch to watch the city.
The elevation, combined with the 360-degree view of the capital it commands will make it a perfect spot to watch twilight temporarily descend on the city.
Dirleton Solar Walk
For those looking for a retreat away from the city, the Dirleton Solar Walk is a scale model of the solar system outside of Edinburgh, in Dirleton, near North Berwick.
The owners of the popular attraction have organised an official event where eclipse glasses will be handed out to allow patrons to view the event fully protected.
Camera Obscura
Camera Obscura is offering visitors the chance to witness the full majesty of the solar eclipse in the middle of Edinburgh.
Like the Solar Walk, Camera Obscura staff will have certified eclipse glasses on hand.
Corstorphine Hill
Corstorphine Hill is at a similar elevation to Blackford Hill, but could be a handier and quieter choice for those in the west of the city.
The local nature reserve which encompasses the promontory is known for its serenity and natural beauty, and the peak offers a view of the city difficult to rival.
