What is the nearest public transport stop?

The closest bus stop is George IV Bridge, around three minutes away. The nearest tram stop is Princes Street, about seven minutes on foot.

How do I get there from Edinburgh Waverley Station?

Walk uphill toward the Royal Mile and follow signs for Edinburgh Castle. The attraction is about a 10 minute walk from the station.

Is there parking near Camera Obscura and World of Illusions Edinburgh?

There is no parking on the Royal Mile, but nearby options include Castle Terrace NCP and QPark Quartermile, both around 10 minutes away on foot.

Can taxis drop me off at the entrance?

Yes, taxis can usually drop passengers directly outside. During castle events or road closures, drop off may take place slightly downhill on the Royal Mile.

Is it easy to walk to from other attractions?

Yes, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions Edinburgh is within easy walking distance of Edinburgh Castle and other Royal Mile landmarks in the Old Town.

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions Location Guide

If you are heading to Camera Obscura and World of Illusions Edinburgh, understanding its central Old Town location makes planning simple. The attraction sits at the very top of the Royal Mile, just steps from Edinburgh Castle, and is well connected by bus, tram, and train routes across the city.

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions location

Address: 549 Castlehill, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 2ND, United Kingdom

Find on Maps

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is located at 549 Castlehill on the upper stretch of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh’s Old Town. It sits just below Edinburgh Castle, making it one of the easiest attractions to spot while walking uphill toward the castle esplanade.

Closest landmark: Edinburgh Castle (just a few steps away)

Getting to Camera Obscura and World of Illusions Edinburgh by public transport

Bus numbers: 12, 26, 31
Closest stop: Princes Street - West (Stop PD)
Walking time from stop: Around 10 minutes
Frequency: Regular daily city services

Buses from multiple directions stop on Princes Street - West (Stop PD). From there, walk toward the Royal Mile and head uphill to Castlehill. The attraction is on the right hand side just before the castle.

Additional bus stops on Princes Street - Scott Monument & Bristo Place are about 10-12 minutes away on foot.

Closest tram stop: Princes Street
Walking time: Around 9 minutes via The Mound
Frequency: Regular daily services connecting the airport and city centre

Get off at Princes Street and walk up The Mound toward the Royal Mile. From there, continue uphill to Castlehill to reach Camera Obscura and World of Illusions Edinburgh.

Nearest station: Edinburgh Waverley
Walking distance: Around 10 minutes

Exit Waverley Station and head uphill through the Old Town toward the Royal Mile. Follow signs toward Edinburgh Castle, and you will find the attraction just below it.

Getting to Camera Obscura and World of Illusions by car

Driving route

From central Edinburgh, head toward The Mound and follow signs for the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. Continue uphill onto Johnston Terrace or Lawnmarket, then turn onto Castlehill. Note that there is no parking on the Royal Mile, and the city centre operates a Low Emission Zone, so vehicle eligibility should be checked before driving.

Nearby parking facilities

Castle Terrace NCP – EH1 2EW (around 10 minutes’ walk)
QPark Quartermile – EH3 9GF (around 10 minutes’ walk)
YourParkingSpace options available nearby

Parking charges apply, and spaces can fill quickly during weekends, festivals, and castle events. Park and Ride facilities are also available around Edinburgh for those travelling from outside the city.

Walking to the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions location

Starting point: Edinburgh Waverley Station
Distance: Approximately 650 metres
Travel time: Around 10 minutes
Best for: Visitors already exploring the Royal Mile or Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh is compact and easy to navigate on foot. Walk up the Royal Mile, Ramsay Lane, or Johnston Terrace while passing historic closes and stone façades. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions Edinburgh is located at the very top of Castlehill, just before Edinburgh Castle on the right hand side.