If you're on a tight schedule or have limited time, you can still get a good overview of the castle in about 1.5 to 2 hours. This will allow you to visit the main attractions, such as the Crown Jewels, Great Hall, and St Margaret's Chapel.
All you need to know about Edinburgh Castle opening hours
Today
Open 09:30–18:00
Last Admission
17:00
Edinburgh Castle
#
Edinburgh Castle is open from 9:30am to 6:30pm between April and September and from 9:30am to 5pm between October and March.
Apr 1 TO Sep 30 Timings Days (Apr 1 TO Sep 30) | TIMINGS | Last Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 09:30–18:00 | 17:00 |
| Tuesday (Today) | 09:30–18:00 | 17:00 |
| Wednesday | 09:30–18:00 | 17:00 |
| Thursday | 09:30–18:00 | 17:00 |
| Friday | 09:30–18:00 | 17:00 |
| Saturday | 09:30–18:00 | 17:00 |
| Sunday | 09:30–18:00 | 17:00 |
Oct 1 TO Dec 24 Timings Days (Oct 1 TO Dec 24) | TIMINGS | Last Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Tuesday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Wednesday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Thursday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Friday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Saturday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Sunday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
Dec 27 TO Dec 31 Timings Days (Dec 27 TO Dec 31) | TIMINGS | Last Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Tuesday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Wednesday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Thursday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Friday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Saturday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Sunday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
Jan 1 TO Jan 1 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Jan 1) | TIMINGS | Last Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 11:00–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Tuesday | 11:00–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Wednesday | 11:00–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Thursday | 11:00–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Friday | 11:00–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Saturday | 11:00–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Sunday | 11:00–17:00 | 16:00 |
Jan 2 TO Mar 31 Timings Days (Jan 2 TO Mar 31) | TIMINGS | Last Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Tuesday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Wednesday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Thursday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Friday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Saturday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
| Sunday | 09:30–17:00 | 16:00 |
#
- Last entry: 1 hour before closing time
- Closed: July 3, December 25 and 26
- Recommended duration: You should set aside at least 2 hours to see the main attractions at Edinburgh Castle.
Best time to visit the Edinburgh Castle
Weekday vs Weekend
#
- Weekdays: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, especially during the low season. Edinburgh Castle opens at 9:30 am, and arriving right at opening time is usually the best way to avoid crowds, giving you more space to explore the Crown Jewels and enjoy the panoramic viewpoints at a relaxed pace. The period between 9:30 am and 11 am is typically quieter, particularly from Tuesday to Thursday.
- Weekends: Weekends tend to be busier, especially between 11 am and 3 pm when visitor numbers are at their highest. Expect longer entry queues and more foot traffic in popular areas. If visiting on a Saturday or Sunday, arriving at 9:30 am or later in the afternoon, after 3 pm can help you avoid the heaviest crowds.
Peak season vs low season
#
- Peak season (June–August): Summer is the busiest time at Edinburgh Castle, with a lively atmosphere and increased visitor numbers, especially during festival season. Expect larger crowds, longer queues, and limited same-day availability, so booking in advance is recommended.
- Low season (November–March): Late autumn and winter bring a quieter experience with fewer tourists and shorter wait times. While the weather can be colder, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed visit, easier access to key highlights, and a calmer atmosphere around the castle grounds.
How long should I spend at Edinburgh Castle?
1.5-2 hours
3-4 hours
