Edinburgh Castle, the oldest building in the city, sits high on a craggy volcanic rock just near the city center. During its history, which spans almost a thousand years, the stronghold has witnessed sieges, served as a military base and provided refuge for Scottish monarchs.
A guided tour is included with the price of admission. If you prefer to explore the ramparts, towers and battlements on your own, check the castle’s official website for one of its suggested itineraries.
As you make your way through the Entrance Gateway, look up to see the statues of Robert the Bruce and William Wallace (aka “Braveheart”), two 14th-century defenders of Scottish independence.
Join the crowds at the far end of the Argyle Battery to watch the One O ’Clock Gun. The cannon is fired every day except Sunday at exactly one o’clock. It started in 1861 to help ships in nearby Leith Harbour set their clocks.
Stand in the Great Hall, the grandiose room where Charles I banqueted. Step inside the bedchamber where Mary, Queen of Scots gave birth to the future James VI of Scotland who united the English and Scottish crowns in 1603. Gaze upon the Scottish crown jewels on the first floor of the Royal Palace. Alongside these treasures is the Stone of Destiny, a block of red sandstone that’s been used in royal coronation ceremonies for centuries.
Visit the Scottish National War Memorial that commemorates Scottish soldiers lost in the two world wars and other military conflicts.
Edinburgh Castle can be reached by foot from the east end of Princes Street. The castle site includes steep cobblestone streets that may present difficulties for some people. Parts of the castle are wheelchair accessible and a limited number of wheelchairs are available on a first come, first served basis. There is no on-site parking, but there are a few disabled parking bays, which need to be booked in advance.
The castle is open daily but opening times vary throughout the year check the official castle website for times.
Edinburgh Castle Tours and Activities
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Clarendon Luxury Apartments
Reviewed on Mar. 24, 2024
Tours & day trips
See all 627 activitiesOpens in new tabEdinburgh Castle: Guided Tour with Live Guide
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 80 activitiesOpens in new tabEdinburgh: Whisky Tasting with History and Storytelling
Attractions
See all 5 activitiesOpens in new tabPlaza Premium Lounge at Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Private & custom tours
See all 258 activitiesOpens in new tabThe Potter Trail Private Tour
Shows & concerts
See all 12 activitiesOpens in new tabEdinburgh: Comedy Horror Ghost Bus Tour
Reviews of Edinburgh Castle
5/5 - Excellent
Buy your tickets online in advance that way you can enter at the time you want to. You collect them from a kiosk at the castle. Nice and easy. We had expected to spend two hours here but it was well over 4. So much to see and the historical interpreter talking about the use of pikes and warfare was incredibly funny. the wind was blowing and it was cold but we stood for an hour listening to him. This site must not be missed.
2/5 - Disappointing
Castle was closed
5/5 - Excellent
Very busy for all tourists!!
3/5 - Okay
If you're like me and you dislike crowds, don't go anywhere near here in late July/August! The city fills up for the tattoo. I was there a few days before the tattoo started, and it was already crowded.
5/5 - Excellent
Useful to buy a ticket in advance, either online or at one of the several tourist information centres on the Royal Mile street. Be prepared to see lots and lots of fellow tourists (I went at the end of July). Nevertheless, fully worth visiting, come rain or shine.
5/5 - Excellent
Going early didn't help the crowds, prepare yourself!
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