Edinburgh Castle

Find out all the information you need to explore one of Edinburgh’s oldest and most famous buildings, Edinburgh Castle.

Whether you pass it every day on your way to work or spotted it for the first time when you wandered out onto Princes Street, here’s why you’ll want to put this particular attraction on your list! Known worldwide and a symbol of Scotland. Edinburgh Castle.

If you’re visiting Edinburgh, this must be high on your checklist. Towering above the city, this regal landmark is definitely worth a visit! Wondering what’s so special about this castle out of the many across Scotland? Trying to figure out opening times to fit it into your busy schedule? Concerned that there might not be adequate facilities to suit your group’s needs? We have all the information right here to plan your perfect trip to Edinburgh Castle.

Not only is Edinburgh Castle part of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns UNESCO World Heritage Site (apologies for that fancy mouthful), it also holds a prestigious place as a top UK Heritage Attraction in the British Travel Awards and is Scotland’s Number 1 paid for tourist attraction.

If these accolades aren’t enough to convince you, perhaps the following features will.

Ever wondered why all heads turn towards the castle at lunch time? The castle is well known for the radiating crack of its One O’Clock Gun that echoes throughout the city where a shot is fired at 1pm every day (apart from Sundays) on que. Have a wander around the fantastic exhibits on offer from pressing your nose up against the glass to peer at the Crown Jewels of Scotland to gazing in awe at the Stone of Destiny (Scotland’s inauguration stone which was only returned by England in 1996). Are you more of a battle fan? Browse the National War Museum of Scotland for crossbows and swords!

Perched on a volcanic plug (don’t worry, there’s no moat of lava, though that would be cool), the active military base gives the most amazing panoramic views of the city below.

The Need-to-Knows

The castle is open daily, even on Sundays, from 9:30am — 5pm so you have the whole day to fit in a little visit. Once you’ve seen your first, of many I’m sure, shows of the festival period or grabbed a bite to eat, take a stroll up the cobbled street of the Royal Mile, past the warped mirrors outside The Camera Obscura, and through the castle gates. Follow a guided tour, which is included in your ticket price, by one of the castle stewards, who can tell you a little secret or two. Audio guides are also available in eight different languages: English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Russian and Mandarin.

Tickets: Adult 16–59 (£13.60), Child 5–15 (£10.20), Concession 60+ and unemployed (£13.60) — there is no discounted student price.

Audio Guides: Adult (£3.50), Child (£1.50), Concession (£2.50)

What’s On

Edinburgh Castle isn’t just a museum but has loads of events for individuals and families. In August The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes place on the castle’s esplanade and displays musical talent from around the world, this year focusing on the theme a ‘Splash of Tartan.’ A renowned event all over the world providing an amazing stage for a whole host of international talent, it’s no wonder that this sell-out event is loved by everyone who sees it! Get your tickets quick!

If you’re lucky enough to still be around come September, the Horrible History buffs among you may well want another visit. Have a look at their events from Schiltron 16th Century to Bolts and Bodkins.

Want more exclusive information, tips and tricks about Edinburgh’s Festivals this August?

Written by Alice Dobie, intern and Blogging Wizard of Kindaba. Alice is known for her pancake breakfasts, questionable music taste and her love for helping people face their challenges.

Related posts:

Back to school night, for most parents, has come and gone. You either got a little more insight into what happens in schools or you’re still wondering what’s really going on. I missed back to school…

Check out our guide to some of the best XF lenses for creating stunning portrait photography

I was actually writing a different article until this morning when I watched a video on YouTube by Elizabeth Filips (video referenced at the end) and it inspired me to list habits that I have found…