Edinburgh Castle 

When you visit Edinburgh castle you do more than just learning about Scotland and its long history. You also do archaeology as for a 1,000 years the castle has been standing on an extinct volcano; and it does show. Walls emerge from the rock to the extent that it is sometimes difficult to distinct what's man-made from what was created by nature. Stunning!

Main attractions

1. Unique panoramic views across the city and over the Firth of Forth

2. The castle is a feat of technology, emerging from the volcanic rocks on which it stands 

 3. The One o’Clock Gun has been fired at…one o’clock almost every day since 1861! (except on Sundays)

 4. The Great Hall. Really grand, it holds a display of arms and armours that you can only dream of as well as THE key to the castle

 5. Scotland’s crown jewels. This is the seriously secured room where Scotland’s treasures are kept including the stone of destiny which is the stone were kings were sitting when they were crowned, a bit like a throne

6. The Prisons of War is very interesting as they recreate the life of prisoners at the end of the 18th century. You’ll see amazing artefacts made by bored prisoners which would have a place of honour in any museum

7. Mons Meg is one of Europe’s oldest siege gun that fired stones weighing 150 kgs (330 lbs) over 3 kms (2 miles)!

8. St Margaret’s chapel is the oldest building on the castle grounds and in Edinburgh. It was built by David I around 1130 to commemorate his mother. Couples still regularly get married in this tiny Chapel

9. The Royal Palace has rooms created in 1617 in honour of James VI

10. The Scottish National War Museum is a very emotional and powerful building dedicated to those who gave their lives in conflicts from WW1 onwards.

 Did you know? Edinburgh castle receives over 1 million visitors from all around the globe every year. 

Location & map

The castle is right in the city centre at the top of the Royal Mile, 15 minutes from Waverley station and Princes Street.

The postcode is EH1 2NG

Telephone: (0044) (0)131 225 9846

You could easily spend a whole day there and if you have toddlers or young children they will definitely enjoy sitting on canons, looking at the stunning panoramic views of the city and pretend they are kings and queens.

If you’re on your own and carry a buggy please note that not all places will be accessible. For instance, visiting the room where the crown jewels are kept requires walking up the stairs in a tower. 

Opening hours

Buying tickets & prices

*Children must be accompanied by an adult.

 The last ticket is sold 45 minutes before closing.

The castle is free for Children under 5.

Online tickets

If buying online, the tickets are fast track at no extra cost and means you don't have to queue at the ticket office.