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Book Edinburgh Castle Tickets
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- Experience the riveting history of Scotland unraveled on a 90-minute guided tour of the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
- Bypass the bustling crowds with seamless fast-track entry, and uncover the castle's sights like the Chapel of Saint Margaret, the city's oldest building.
- See the sword and the scepter, the oldest crown jewels in the British Isle, and admire the city views from the Castle Rock volcano.
- Tailor the experience to your comfort with your preferred language, English or Spanish, and steep in 3,000-year-old Scottish history.
- Experience the riveting history of Scotland unraveled on a 90-minute guided tour of the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
- Bypass the bustling crowds with seamless fast-track entry, and uncover the castle's sights like the Chapel of Saint Margaret, the city's oldest building.
- See the sword and the scepter, the oldest crown jewels in the British Isle, and admire the city views from the Castle Rock volcano.
- Tailor the experience to your comfort with your preferred language, English or Spanish, and steep in 3,000-year-old Scottish history.
Inclusions
- 90-min guided tour of Edinburgh Castle
- Skip-the-line entry
- English/Spanish-speaking guide
- Tip: Keep an eye out for the One O'Clock Gun – it fires every day except Sunday, Good Friday, and Christmas Day.
- Guide dogs are allowed on this experience.
- Flash photography and tripods are not allowed on this experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Meet your expert English-speaking guide at Mercat Cross and get started on your journey to the Royal Mile.
- As you walk past the iconic sites along this route, learn about the fascinating secrets and stories of the city.
- Take a journey through time and explore the lives of Edinburgh residents like Mary Queen of Scots and Robert Burns, a Scottish poet and lyricist.
- Upgrade your experience and add to your ticket a skip-the-line entry into Edinburgh Castle to learn about the many battles fought here such as the War of Independence.
- See the oldest crown jewels here and pay a visit to the legendary Stone of Destiny where Scottish kings used to be anointed.
- Meet your expert English-speaking guide at Mercat Cross and get started on your journey to the Royal Mile.
- As you walk past the iconic sites along this route, learn about the fascinating secrets and stories of the city.
- Take a journey through time and explore the lives of Edinburgh residents like Mary Queen of Scots and Robert Burns, a Scottish poet and lyricist.
- Upgrade your experience and add to your ticket a skip-the-line entry into Edinburgh Castle to learn about the many battles fought here such as the War of Independence.
- See the oldest crown jewels here and pay a visit to the legendary Stone of Destiny where Scottish kings used to be anointed.
Inclusions
- Walking tour of the Royal Mile
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Skip-the-line entry into Edinburgh Castle (optional)
- Wireless audio system with headphones (optional)
- Tip: Take home souvenirs to remember this tour. Royal Mile is lined with shops that sell great souvenirs.
- You can bring your own headphones or earphones to use with the audio system. It’s a standard 3.5 mm audio jack.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Join a Harry Potter-themed walking tour guided by an expert English-speaking guide, complete with exclusive access to Edinburgh Castle.
- The Edinburgh University Old College will draw you in with its 18th-century allure, and visit the Elephant House café, the birthplace of Harry Potter.
- Try to spot Tom Riddle's grave at Greyfriars Kirkyard graveyard, and see a shop on Victoria Street that inspired the famous Diagon Alley.
- Enter Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scottish heritage, and learn about its dark connection with witches and wizards of the past.
- Join a Harry Potter-themed walking tour guided by an expert English-speaking guide, complete with exclusive access to Edinburgh Castle.
- The Edinburgh University Old College will draw you in with its 18th-century allure, and visit the Elephant House café, the birthplace of Harry Potter.
- Try to spot Tom Riddle's grave at Greyfriars Kirkyard graveyard, and see a shop on Victoria Street that inspired the famous Diagon Alley.
- Enter Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scottish heritage, and learn about its dark connection with witches and wizards of the past.
Inclusions
- Harry Potter walking tour in Edinburgh
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Entry to Edinburgh Castle
- Tip: Keep an eye out for "The Boy Wizard" shop on Victoria Street, known for its Harry Potter-themed merchandise.
- This experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
- Guide dogs and pets are welcome on this experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
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Top things to do in Edinburgh
Why visit Edinburgh Castle
- Built atop an extinct volcano: Castle Rock, the hill on which the castle sits, is the plug of an extinct volcano that last erupted over 340 million years ago.
- Hidden tower: David's Tower was built in the 14th century but collapsed during the Lang Siege of 1573. The tower ruins were buried beneath the Half Moon Battery, but they were rediscovered in 1912.
- Prison for American prisoners of war: During the American War of Independence, over 1,100 American prisoners were held captive in Edinburgh Castle. One prisoner, Ebeneezer Fox, carved a depiction of the American flag into the wall of his cell. This is believed to be the earliest known depiction of the Stars and Stripes outside of the United States.
- Said to be haunted: There are many different ghost stories associated with Edinburgh Castle, including the story of the headless drummer, the ghost of Mary Queen of Scots, and the ghost of a dog that was once thrown from the castle walls.
Which Edinburgh Castle ticket is best for you
If you are on a budget
Go for: Walking tour
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Yes
- Join an English-speaking guide on an exploration of the Royal Mile and the attractions along the route and learn about Scotland's history and its prominent residents like Mary Queen of Scots and Roberts Burns.
- Upgrade your tickets for skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle and an audio guide
Recommended tour:
If you are short on time
Go for: Priority entry ticket
Duration: 1.5 hours
Guide: Audio
- Bypass the long lines and crowds with priority access on this 90-minute guided tour of Edinburgh Castle.
- Explore the Chapel of Saint Margaret and see the Crown Jewels and learn about their history with an audio guide in English or Spanish.
Recommended tour:
If you want to explore beyond
Go for: Combo ticket
Duration: 4 hours
Guide: Yes
- Pair your visit to Edinburgh Castle with a Harry Potter-themed walking tour with an English-speaking guide.
- Explore the Edinburgh University Old College, the birthplace of Harry Potter at the Elephant House Cafe, Tom Riddle's grave at Greyfriars Kirkyard graveyard, and the shop that inspired Diagon Alley.
Recommended tour:
What to see at Edinburgh Castle
Crown Jewels of Scotland
Behold the dazzling Crown Jewels, exquisite works of art. Crafted with gold, silver, and precious gemstones, the Crown of Scotland boasts the honor of being the oldest surviving crown in the British Isles.
Great Hall
A colossal space measuring over 100 feet in length and 40 feet in width, this historic hall once resonated with celebration during banquets and royal ceremonies. Today, it houses the National War Museum of Scotland.
Royal Palace
Wander through the corridors of the Royal Palace, once a regal residence, now a living museum that narrates the tale of Scotland's monarchs. Explore the King's Apartments, the Queen's Apartments, and the State Apartments.
St Margaret's Chapel
Gaze upon the ethereal beauty of St Margaret's Chapel, the castle's oldest gem. Legend has it that Saint Margaret, King Malcolm III's queen, gave birth to King David I. This simple chapel boasts a serene nave, choir, and side chapels.
Mons Meg
Encounter the colossal Mons Meg, a cannon of awe-inspiring proportions. This behemoth stretches over 16 feet in length and weighs a staggering 15 tons. In the 15th century, it stood as one of Europe's mightiest cannons.
One o'clock Gun
Join in the daily tradition that dates back to the 18th century, as the One o'clock Gun reverberates across the castle grounds. This midday spectacle draws both locals and visitors alike to the Half Moon Battery.
Half Moon Battery
Not just a vantage point, the Half Moon Battery offers panoramic views. With the city and the sprawling countryside stretched before you, it's the perfect stage for the One o'clock Gun's thunderous performance.
National War Museum
Immerse yourself in Scotland's military legacy, spanning from the Jacobite Rebellions to the crucible of World War II. Marvel at the vast array of weapons, uniforms, and artifacts that bear witness to the nation's storied military history.
Scottish National War Memorial
Pay your respects at the solemn Scottish National War Memorial, a hallowed tribute to those who laid down their lives in the name of Scotland. It's a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom.
Queen Anne Building
This majestic venue at Edinburgh Castle is available for booking for private events, banquets, or cocktail parties for up to 170 guests. See the castle lit up at night with a piper's welcome and flaming torches at the drawbridge at the event.
Real Mary King's Close
Venture beneath the historic Royal Mile to unearth a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers dating back to the 14th century. Unearth the city's clandestine past, with sights such as the Edinburgh Vaults, taverns, shops, and even a prison.
Queen's Embroideries
Artistry takes center stage in the Queen's Gallery, where royal embroidery by Mary Queen of Scots graces the walls. These exquisite creations are a testament to the royal artistry of the queen during her exile.
Argyle Tower
This vaulted chamber is dominated by a huge model trebuchet that towers above a stone ball believed to have been fired at the castle during the siege of 1296, the first time giant catapults are recorded being used in Scotland.
Prisons of War
In the 1700s and 1800s, pirates and prisoners of war were held in dark, cramped spaces below Crown Square, including prisoners from France, America, Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Italy, Denmark, and Poland.
Regimental museums
Now known as the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, the regiment helped King Charles II fight 17th-century religious dissenters called Covenanters. Both the Royal Scots Museum and the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Museum are on top of the hill.
David's Tower
Originally the heart of the castle at 100ft, the tower was the royal residence for 100 years. It was built by David II in the 1300s but was incomplete at the time of his death in 1371. By the early 1500s, the Royal Palace took over as the residence.
Plan your visit to Edinburgh Castle
Timings
Location
Entrances
Facilities
Tips
Eat
Stay
Nearby
- April 1 to September 30: 9:30am to 6pm
- October 1 to December 23: 9:30am to 5pm
- December 24: 9:30am to 4pm
- December 27 to 31: 9:30am to 5pm
- January 1: 11am to 5pm
- January 2 to March 31: 9:30am to 5pm
Last entry: One hour before closing time
Closed on: July 3, December 25, and December 26. Unexpected closures may occur due to bad weather or other circumstances.
Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK
Getting there
- By metro: The nearest metro station to Edinburgh Castle is West End - Princes Street. From the station, it is a short walk up the Royal Mile to the castle.
- By car: There is no public parking at Edinburgh Castle. However, there are several car parks in the surrounding area, including Castle Terrace Car Park, Princes Street Car Park, and Waverley Parking.
- By bus: Some buses stop near Edinburgh Castle, including Lothian Buses 24, 35, 38, and 45. From the bus stop, it is a short walk up the Royal Mile to the castle.
There is only one main entrance to Edinburgh Castle, which is located at the bottom of the Royal Mile. Visitors can access the castle over a wooden-slatted bridge.
However, there are many other entrances to the castle that are used for specific purposes, such as:
- The Esplanade Gate: This gate is used for access to the castle grounds and the Royal Military Tattoo.
- The Argyll Battery Gate: This gate is used for access to the Argyll Battery and the One o'clock Gun.
- The Crown Square Gate: This gate is used for access to the Crown Square area of the castle.
- The Foog's Gate: This gate is used for access to the Upper Ward of the castle.
Visitors are not permitted to use these entrances unless they have a specific reason to do so, such as attending a military event or visiting the castle grounds.
- Ticket office
- Information desk
- Guided tours
- Audio guides
- Year-round temporary exhibitions
- Cafes & restaurants
- Toilets
- Gift shops
- Many visitors to Edinburgh Castle stick to the main attractions, such as the Crown Jewels and Mons Meg. But there are also some hidden gems to be found in the castle. For example, you can visit the National War Museum of Scotland, which is housed in the castle grounds. You can also take a tour of David's Tower, which offers stunning views of the city.
- Look for the hidden symbols and meanings. For example, the castle's portcullis gate features a carving of a crowned lion. This is a symbol of the Scottish monarchy. You can also find carvings of the thistle, the national flower of Scotland, throughout the castle.
- Take a guided tour. Guided tours are a great way to learn about the castle's history and see all the highlights.
- The Crown Jewels are one of the most popular attractions in the castle, so it's best to see them early before the crowds arrive.
- The One o'clock Gun is fired from the castle every day at 1pm. It's a popular tourist attraction, so be sure to arrive early to get a good spot.
- The Tea Rooms: Indulge in an afternoon tea or sample some of Scotland's best meals or sweet and savory snacks with a view of Edinburgh. Do try the Blacketyside raspberry, Fairtrade dark chocolate macaron, and the Ayrshire ham and Glendrath egg finger sandwich with Arran mustard.
- Redcoat Cafe: Nestled within the castle grounds, this cozy café serves up a delightful mix of Scottish and international fare, from sandwiches and salads to hearty soups and delectable cakes.
Budget: Hub by Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Rose Street), Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, Cityroomz Edinburgh
Mid-range: Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street), Old Waverley Hotel, Best Western Kings Manor Hotel
Luxury: The Witchery by the Castle, The Balmoral Hotel, Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian
- The Royal Mile: This historic street is lined with shops, restaurants, and pubs, and it is a great place to soak up the atmosphere of Edinburgh.
- Palace of Holyroodhouse: This royal palace is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, and it is open to the public for tours.
- Arthur's Seat: This extinct volcano offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside, and it is a popular spot for hiking and walking.
- Princes Street Gardens: These beautiful gardens are located at the foot of Edinburgh Castle and offer a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.
- National Museum of Scotland: This museum houses a collection of over 20 million objects, including artifacts from Scottish history, culture, and natural history.
- Camera Obscura and World of Illusions: This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of optical illusions and interactive exhibits.
Frequently Asked Questions about Edinburgh Castle tickets
How much is a ticket to Edinburgh Castle?
Ticket prices vary depending on age and group size, but start at £19.50 for adults and £11.40 for children below the age of 15.
What do Edinburgh Castle tickets include?
Tickets typically grant access to the castle grounds, including various attractions such as the Crown Jewels, the Great Hall, and St Margaret's Chapel. Special exhibitions or guided tours may have separate fees.
Are discounts available on tickets?
Discounts are often available for seniors, students, and children. Additionally, you may find discounted rates for online bookings, family tickets, or in combination with other historic sites.
What is the cancelation policy?
The guided tour of Edinburgh Castle cannot be canceled or rescheduled. However, the Royal Mile walking tour and the Harry Potter walking tour can be canceled 24 hours before the experience and you will get a full refund.
How long does it take to complete a tour?
The duration of your visit depends on your interests, but most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring the castle's various attractions and enjoying the breathtaking views of Edinburgh.
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About Edinburgh Castle
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