The UK’s best sunrise and sunset viewpoints

Catching a sunrise or sunset is always astonishing. Those fiery colours are so intense, it can feel like you’re in a fantasy novel or video game. Really, it’s a reminder that the natural world is breathtaking, especially when you take the time to honour it.

The UK, with its rolling hills and coastal cliffs, is an incredible place to view these marvels. You could feasibly hike to one of these spots first thing in the morning and feel like the only person in the world.

Thankfully, photo printing company CEWE, has identified the best UK spots to see a sunrise and sunset, along with award-winning travel photographer Bella Falk.

Arthur’s Seat Hill, Edinburgh

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In the top spot was Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh, Scotland. Formed more than 350 million years ago, Arthur’s Seat is one of the city’s most famous attractions thanks to its panoramic views. If you head there early, you can see the city wake up – an incredible contrast to the sweeping sky overhead.

For the best route: start from the Scottish Parliament, going south-west to take in the escarpment of the Salisbury Crags before zig-zagging up to the volcanic crest of Arthur’s Seat. At the top, take in the views over the spires of the Old Town and the ramparts of the castle. To go back, turn the long way round, via Duddingston Loch.

Southwold Pier in Suffolk, England, got second place. First built in 1900, it is known as one of the country’s most picturesque piers thanks to its sweeping views across the coastline and North Sea. It’s also east-facing, which makes it perfect for sunrise viewing. The colourful beach huts, sand dunes and wooden groynes add to the experience.

To really enjoy Southwold Pier, depending on the time of day, stroll past the candy-coloured beach huts and pick up locally churned Suffolk Meadow Ice Cream and duck into the Under the Pier Show, the world’s most eccentric amusement arcade.

And in third place is Durdle Door in Dorset, England. The famous limestone arch, which stands 200 feet tall and dates back 140 million years, allows viewers to see through the dome to spot a sunrise or sunset during certain times of the year. Surrounding clifftops and waves add to the movie-worthy scenes.

The best UK spots to see a sunrise and sunset

1. Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh
2. Southwold Pier, Suffolk
3. Durdle Door, Lulworth, Dorset
4. Golden Jubilee Bridges, London
5. Catbells, Keswick, Lake District
6. Mam Tor, Castleton, Peak District
7. Richmond Park, London
8. Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim
9. Fishguard Lower Town Harbour, Pembrokeshire
10. Sandbanks, Poole, Dorset