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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?
- The castle was 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.
- The castle has a hidden tower. David's Tower was built in the 14th century, but it collapsed during the Lang Siege of 1573. The ruins of the tower were buried beneath the Half Moon Battery, but they were rediscovered in 1912.
- The castle was once a 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.
- The castle is home to a colony of bats. Over 100 bats live in the castle walls and tunnels. These bats help to control the population of insects in the castle grounds.
- The castle is 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: an economical ticket option
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Not included
- This entry ticket provides flexible access to Edinburgh Castle. Even though audio guides are not included, this ticket is an economical option for anyone trying to admire this beauty on a budget.
- This is a great way to see all the historic royal jewels at Edinburgh Castle while saving time.
Recommended Tours
If you're short on time
Go for: skip-the-line ticket
Duration: 1 hr. 30 min. - 2 hr. 15 min
Guide: Audio
Walking tour of Royal Mile: Included
- This ticket provides skip-the-line access to Edinburgh Castle for those on a time crunch and wishing to experience its Great Hall and history.
- Explore top attractions along the way, like the Camera Obscura and the Scotch Whisky Experience.
Recommended Tours
For those who want an in-depth exploration
Go for: entry tickets to multiple attractions
Duration: 1 hr. 30 min. - 2 hr. 15 min
Guide: Audio
Royal Yacht Britannia access: yes
Palace of Holyroodhouse: yes
- Enjoy 48 hours of access to 3 top royal attractions in Edinburgh, including Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Yacht Britannia, and HOHO bus tours for easy commute.
- Dive into history with an audioguide at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Recommended Tours
What to see and do at Edinburgh Castle?
Crown Jewels of Scotland
Behold the dazzling Crown Jewels, not just ordinary adornments but exquisite works of art. Crafted with the brilliance of gold, silver, and precious gemstones, the Crown of Scotland boasts the distinguished honour of being the oldest surviving crown in the British Isles.
Great Hall
Picture yourself in the grandeur of the Great Hall, a colossal space measuring over 100 feet in length and 40 feet in width. This historic hall once resonated with laughter and celebration during banquets and royal ceremonies. Today, it houses the National War Museum of Scotland, where history echoes through the corridors.
Royal Palace
Wander through the corridors of the Royal Palace, once a regal residence, now a living museum that narrates the epic tale of Scotland's monarchs. Explore the King's Apartments, the Queen's Apartments, and the resplendent State Apartments, where history breathes life.
St. Margaret's Chapel
Gaze upon the ethereal beauty of St. Margaret's Chapel, the castle's oldest gem. Within these time-worn walls, legend has it that Saint Margaret, the queen of King Malcolm III, gave birth to King David I. This simple yet elegant chapel boasts a serene nave, a solemn choir, and inviting side chapels.
Mons Meg
Encounter the colossal Mons Meg, a cannon of awe-inspiring proportions. This behemoth stretches over 16 feet in length and tips the scales at a staggering 15 tons. In the 15th century, it stood as one of Europe's mightiest cannons, guarding the castle's ramparts with unmatched firepower.
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, gathering at the Half Moon Battery to witness history in the making.
Half Moon Battery
Not just a vantage point, the Half Moon Battery offers panoramic views that will leave you breathless. 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 of Scotland
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 artefacts 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's Embroideries
Artistry takes centre stage in the Queen's Gallery, where royal embroidery by the likes of Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II graces the walls. These exquisite creations are more than just fabric; they're a testament to the royal artistry.
The Queen Anne Building
What was once a military barracks now houses captivating exhibitions, including the Argyle Battery Museum. Here, you'll uncover the secrets of the castle's formidable artillery.
Explore the Royal Mile Underground
Venture beneath the historic Royal Mile to unearth a clandestine labyrinth of tunnels and chambers dating back to the 14th century. Guided tours reveal the city's clandestine past, with fascinating sights such as the Edinburgh Vaults, once bustling taverns, shops, and even a prison, now frozen in time for your exploration.
Plan your visit to Edinburgh Castle
Timings
Location
Entrances
Facilities
Tips
Eat
Stay
Nearby
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, Sunday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
- Closing hours: Last admission is 5:00 p.m. on all days
- Closed on: 25 and 26 December, 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 a number of car parks in the surrounding area, including Castle Terrace Car Park, Princes Street Car Park, Waverley Parking
- By bus:
A number of 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 a number of 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: Buy castle tickets at the main entrance.
- Info Desk: Get castle info and history here.
- Guided Tours: Tours in various languages.
- Audio Guides: Rent at ticket office.
- Museums: Home to National War Museum of Scotland, Scottish National War Memorial, and Regimental Museums.
- Exhibitions: Year-round temporary displays.
- Cafes & Restaurants: Enjoy on-site dining.
- Toilets: Conveniently located.
- Gift Shops: Grab souvenirs here.
- Go off the beaten path: Many visitors to Edinburgh Castle stick to the main attractions, such as the Crown Jewels and Mons Meg. But there are also a number of 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 the David's Tower, which offers stunning views of the city.
- Look for the hidden symbols: Edinburgh Castle is full of 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.
- Start with the Crown Jewels: 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.
- Don't forget to see the One o'Clock Gun: 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 Redcoat Cafe: Nestled within the castle grounds, this cosy café serves up a delightful mix of Scottish and international fare, from sandwiches and salads to hearty soups and delectable cakes.
- The Witchery by the Castle: An award-winning dining destination housed in a historic building with captivating castle views, offering an upscale Scottish culinary journey that's truly exceptional.
- Chaophraya Edinburgh: Just a stone's throw away from the castle, this Thai restaurant tantalizes your taste buds with a tempting array of authentic Thai dishes, featuring curries, noodles, and sizzling stir-fries.
- Dine: Located in the heart of the city centre, a short walk from the castle, Dine beckons with a modern British menu spotlighting seasonal ingredients for a delectable dining experience.
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 the Edinburgh Castle?
Ticket prices vary depending on age and group size, but start at £18 for adults and £9 for children.
How to book tickets to the Edinburgh Castle?
You can book tickets online through the official Edinburgh Castle website or purchase them in person at the castle's ticket office.
Why should I book Edinburgh Castle tickets online?
Booking online allows you to skip the ticket queue, saving you time, and often offers discounted rates compared to purchasing tickets on-site.
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 Edinburgh Castle 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 for Edinburgh Castle tickets?
Entry tickets are non-refundable but for the 'Entry Tickets to 3 Royal Attractions with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours' and the 'Walking Tour of Royal Mile with Optional Edinburgh Castle Tickets' tickets can be cancelled 24 hours prior.
How long does it take to complete a Edinburgh Castle 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.
What are the opening hours of Edinburgh Castle?
Edinburgh Castle is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from Monday to Saturday and from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday.
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About Edinburgh Castle
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