Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the ancient castle is the true gem of Scotland you wouldn’t want to miss on your trip to the country. According to the recent analysis review study, Edinburgh Castle is the most beautiful UK attraction — why not go there and see it yourself? Here, we’ve picked the best activities to get the most out of your visit.
Did you know that the infamous Red Wedding scene from the Game of Thrones series was inspired by the Black Dinner, a real-life massacre that happened in Edinburgh Castle? This tragedy is one of many historical events that took place within the walls of the magnificent fortress standing on Castle Rock.
Served as a royal residence, military garrison, prison, and fortress, Edinburgh Castle offers a range of attractions to help you explore Scotland’s history. Immerse yourself in the mysterious atmosphere of the ancient fortress and learn more about the past through the stories of famous battles and sieges.
Explore the splendor of the Royal Palace, where Queen Mary of Guise, the last defender of the Catholic faith, passed away and where her grandson James VI was born to have a remarkable life.
- Explore St. Margaret’s Chapel
Discover the serenity of the oldest surviving chapel in Edinburgh, built in 1130 by King David I and named after his mother, Saint Margaret of Scotland.
Time travel to Medieval Scotland and explore the place of important banquets and state events built for James IV in 1511.
- Enjoy the immersive exhibition
The walls of Edinburgh Castle witnessed many critical historical moments. Relive the experience of the fight for the fortress during the Wars of Independence.
- Marvel at The Crown Jewels
Admire the Honours of Scotland, the oldest Crown jewels in Britain that date back to the 15th and 16th centuries.
- Get Chills from Prisoner of War Exhibition
Feel the atmosphere of the dark vaults. Visit the place where pirates and prisoners of war from all over the world waited for their execution.
H2: Edinburgh Castle Admission
Book tickets online in advance if you wish to pay less for admission. In this case, the ticket price is £18 for adults and £14.50 for seniors (65+) and unemployed people. Children between the ages of five and 15 can enter the castle for £11.
The price of walk-up tickets is £21 for adults, £17 for seniors (65+) and unemployed people, and £12.50 for children between the ages of five and 15.
Edinburgh Castle is one of the most popular attractions in the city, so get your tickets ahead of time.
H2: Edinburgh Castle Discounts
Discounts for group admission are available for families with at least two children. Depending on the number of people, an online family ticket costs between £35.50 and £61.50.
H2: Free Admission
Children under five, Historic Scotland Members, HM Forces members, STGA and SITOA guides, and carers accompanying visitors with disabilities can visit Edinburgh Castle for free.
H2: Opening Hours
Edinburgh Castle is open daily, with the last admission one hour before closing:
From April 1 to September 30: 09:30 AM – 6:00 PM
From October 1 to March 31: 09:30 AM – 5:00 PM
The castle is closed on 25 and 26 December.
H2: How to Avoid Crowds
The best time to visit Edinburgh Castle and avoid crowds is during winter, except for holidays. If you want to enjoy the castle’s attractions without waiting in lines for too long, May, June, and September are also excellent times to visit.
August is the busiest month due to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. It is best to book tickets in advance if you plan to visit during this time.
For a more peaceful visit, go to the castle during the week early in the morning.
