Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle
4.5
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Edinburgh Castle is a world famous icon of Scotland and part of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site. It was recently voted top UK Heritage Attraction in the British Travel Awards and is Scotland’s number one paid-for tourist attraction. This most famous of Scottish castles has a complex building history. The oldest part, St Margaret's Chapel, dates from the 12th century; the Great Hall was erected by James IV around 1510; the Half Moon Battery by the Regent Morton in the late 16th century; and the Scottish National War Memorial after the First World War. The castle houses the Honours (Crown Jewels) of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, the famous 15th century gun Mons Meg, the One O' Clock Gun and the National War Museum of Scotland.
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Old Town
Few Edinburghers live in the Old Town, but its labyrinth of dank alleys and steep streets suggests this was not always the case. Today, it’s mostly visitors, tartan-flavored souvenir shops, and pipers that you’ll find on its cobbled streets. This is the place to get a feel for Auld Reekie (Old Smelly), as the town was once nicknamed, and stroll the Royal Mile, the thoroughfare that links the castle with the royal palace – two of Edinburgh’s great set-piece attractions. But there’s lots more exploring to do here down dozens of little alleys, or wynds, while at night the city’s busiest clubs erupt along the Cowgate which is closed to traffic for this purpose.
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See what travelers are saying
  • Lisa W
    329 contributions
    Those views!!!
    Visually stunning from every angle but particularly once you are in the castle walls. Luckily we chose a rare sunny day and the views were just breath-taking. Out to the coast, over Arthur's Seat and listening to the screams and music of the Xmas market below. Whilst you can climb on walls and stuff this isn't your typical castle, with few buildings to actually go inside but it's an experience not to miss. The prisons are great, really brought to life how the prisoners would live (just need to add smells!).
    Visited December 2022
    Written December 5, 2022
  • Lindsay N
    Carlisle, United Kingdom15 contributions
    Castle Of Light Event.
    I went here recently and I found the Castle of light event and it was amazing. I had no idea that it was on so I got a nice surprise when I walked up the hill! I walked around a few times to look at everything again. Edinburgh castle will always be one of my favourite's to visit, the views and history are amazing.
    Visited December 2022
    Traveled with family
    Written December 10, 2022
  • Quill2005
    Ocala, Florida188 contributions
    Historic Edinburgh with the Best Views of the City
    As the castle is perched high above Edinburgh, wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a bit of a climb to get there. The views from here of the city are excellent, but it’s the history that makes the castle a must-see. Pre-book your ticket for an early morning arrival to avoid lines and crowds. After entering, head strait for the building housing the crown jewels of Scotland and Stone of Scone (or Destiny). Stay for the 1 o’clock gun firing if you can. Highlights are the St. Margaret’s Chapel, the Great Hall, the National War Museum of Scotland, and the Scottish National War Memorial, and the 2 Regimental Museums, that of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and the Royal Scots Greys. Try to spend at least three hours at the castle complex.
    Visited September 2022
    Written December 15, 2022
  • Olivia W
    14 contributions
    Definitely should visit
    There is SO much to see here, so I would say it’s definitely worth the ticket price. You could easily spent half a day or even a whole day here depending on how much time you like to take looking at things. Wrap up as it’s pretty chilly this high up! The Crown Jewels were surprisingly probably the most interesting thing to see in my opinion.
    Visited December 2022
    Traveled as a couple
    Written December 16, 2022
  • Priya D
    3 contributions
    Enriching experience!!
    I was mesmerised by the beauty of the castle. and the grandeur of the place . Learnt quite a lot about scottish history! My favourite part of the visit was the royal crown and the museum. It was worth a visit! Lovely atmosphere!
    Visited December 2022
    Traveled with family
    Written December 22, 2022
  • David C
    Samford, Australia489 contributions
    Relaxed, Enjoyable, more time
    We spent a good 3 hours going through and could have stayed for longer. There is alot to do, much to look at (make time to sit and take in the view while others huddle around you), places to eat, drink coffee, taste whisky, buy authentic Scottish goods. We enjoyed our short time here. Be prepared to queue on busy days. Trick Is to get in early.
    Visited November 2022
    Traveled as a couple
    Written December 27, 2022
  • Crystal X
    Long Island, New York293 contributions
    Magical fun for a few hours!
    Make sure to prebook your tickets on the website before heading to the castle. I’d recommend the first ticket, I booked for 9:30! It’s the best time, not a lot of people yet and you’ll get a nice photo op. The audio guide takes 30 minutes to a few hours depending on your interest. I stayed at the castle for 2.5 hours. Wear warm clothes and layers, it gets quite windy at times. There are some indoor activities and exhibits so you’ll get some refuge. Enjoy!!!
    Visited December 2022
    Traveled solo
    Written December 30, 2022
  • louby41
    Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom871 contributions
    Magnificent castle
    We pre-booked our tickets which I suggest you do as tickets were sold out when we arrived at 1.30pm. It was very cold and windy so I suggest you wrap up warm as it gets very blustery. Luckily there was a gap in the rain as we wandered around the site, much of it is outdoors as you move around to the different areas. It has a lot of military history and exhibits on show so if this is something that interests you, you'll definitely enjoy it. The Crown Jewels and views are amazing. It's easy to get to at the top of the Royal Mile. It's a must see if visiting Edinburgh.
    Visited December 2022
    Traveled as a couple
    Written December 31, 2022
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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Charlotte H
5 contributions
Jan 2020
We paid £39 for two adults which is the most I've probably ever spent to get inside a castle and I don't think it was worth it. On top of that if you wanted an audio guide or tour it was an extra £5 or £10. We did go when it was cold and raining and a lot of it is outside so I understand this will have had a negative impact for us. Also I think I was expecting more social history, however, didn’t realise the majority was about war which I personally didn’t find very interesting. The crown jewels were cool to see, however, you have to wait in a long line and when you get to the front you literally see them for roughly 2 minutes. I thought the mini museums inside could be more interactive and engaging as I found them to all be cabinets with things inside and writing which I thought was pretty dull. I think for the amount I paid I wanted the displays to be more engaging and fun. Overall, I would say save your money as you’re not missing out. One of the main selling points/positives- the views.
Written January 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your feedback regarding your recent visit to Edinburgh Castle. We are disappointed to hear you did not enjoy your visit and take value for money very seriously. We believe there are a wealth of things to see and do at the castle. The admission costs for Edinburgh Castle are regularly reviewed to ensure value for money, and our admission cost not only contributes to maintaining this historic location but also to preserving our 340+ sites across Scotland. We also offer excellent value membership or explorer passes for those wanting to explore a variety of locations. Thank you again for taking the time to leave your feedback.
Written February 21, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

gcervi2016
Tarragona, Spain33 contributions
Jan 2020
First of all, it is not honest that a national pride as the Scotland’s war museum were incapsulate in the pay for access Edinburgh Castle, obliging therefore visitors interested only in the museum to pay the incredible costly ticket for the Castle, which after all has not too much to offer, since its position is the emerging beauty. Now, I am asking, how much should be the entrance ticket to the Roman Colyseumwhich has two thousand years and requires continuous restructuring of its enormous body? 60 £, 70 £? When you have to pay £17,50 for the Castle ! Come on, Scottish, all tickets in Great Britain and above all in Scotland are ridiculously excessive and with time you will realize that they are bread for today and hunger for tomorrow. Happily, at least some National Museums like the Scotland’s and the Paintings’ wonderful visits are free, but.....
Written February 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your feedback regarding your recent visit to Edinburgh Castle. We take value for money very seriously and believe there are a wealth of things to see and do at the castle. From the Crown Jewels, the One O'clock Gun and the Prisons of War to the National War Museum of Scotland, wonderful views of the city, the Royal Palace and St Margaret's Chapel. In addition to this, we run free half-hourly guided tours, so there really is something for everyone. The admission costs for Edinburgh Castle are reviewed regularly to ensure good value for money, and our admission cost not only contributes to maintaining this beautiful historic location but also to preserve our 340+ sites across Scotland. Thank you again for taking the time to leave your feedback.
Written February 21, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

johnmacg2
Newbury, UK9 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Visited on New Year’s Day. Had my first disappointment at the ticket desk when my Defence Discount Card was refused. This is a card issued to verified serving members and veterans of HM Forces. This should be remedied immediately. Veterans are to be given much more recognition for their service by the government and have appointed a veterans minister. Shocked that Edinburgh castle offers no recognition and concession to HM Forces veterans. Next let down was after paying the full entry fee only then to discover that two of the military museums were closed. We should have been informed prior to entry. The rest of the castle experience is pretty boring. Not much imagination or effort has gone into the exhibits. I wouldn’t recommend wasting your money on this but would highly recommend the Royal Yacht Britannia if you want to see how history should be preserved and exhibited!!
Written January 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We were disappointed to hear that you your visit to the castle did not meet with your expectations. As a charity, our job is to protect, present and promote Scotland's built heritage. As you can imagine, this is a very expensive undertaking and the income generated through admissions and other avenues such as our shops and restaurants pay for only part of this work. Historic Environment Scotland (who manage Edinburgh Castle on behalf of Scottish Ministers) is a non- departmental government body and it would not be possible to undertake our work without this source of income. Our extensive evaluation and independent market research also show that we score very highly on value for money with people who have visited Edinburgh Castle as well as on enjoyment. Our policy is that serving military personnel in possession of a MOD90 card are entitled to free access to Edinburgh Castle. We receive many requests from a range of very worthy bodies and organisations regarding free or discounted access and are unfortunately not in a position for the reasons outlined above for this to be extended to all ex-military personnel. As regards the military museums, The Royal Scots and The Royal Scots Dragoon Guard Museums are run independently by volunteers and have different opening times. This is reflected on our website and our leaflets. We apologies that this was not clear on your arrival at the castle.
Written January 10, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Morgs+AbiTravel
Taunton, UK35 contributions
Dec 2019 • Couples
Myself and my girlfriend visited Edinburgh for a long weekend in December 2018 for my 18th birthday, and one of the places we really wanted to go and see was Edinburgh Castle.
The admission price to get in is quite dear, but once you’re in, it really is worth the money.
Edinburgh Castle is not just any castle, it overlooks the city on top of an extinct volcano, and we can’t stress enough how incredible the views are from up top. The castle has had a massive influence on not only the kings and queens that called the castle home, but the city and country as a whole! It has also survived many major events in Scottish history and is very much a treasure to Scottish people. Trust me, you’ll learn and find out lots!
We would’ve stayed longer than we did, only time was pretty tight! But I guess that’s all more reasons to go back.
Edinburgh Castle was by far the highlight of our trip to Edinburgh, and we think it should be at the top of every Edinburgh itinerary, without a question.
Written January 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

spaggy45
Havant, UK24 contributions
Feb 2020
We visited the castle on our stay in Edinburgh. It was extremely busy the day we went, due to the fact that the castle had been closed the previous 2 days. This meant that there was a lot of queuing to view rooms and areas due to the amount of people there. We did have a good time and learnt a lot, but found it a bit frustrating trying to see things with so many people all squashed into the same place. It is well worth a visit though.
Written February 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Kathinated
Dunfermline, UK715 contributions
Oct 2020 • Family
For any new or infrequent visitors to Edinburgh a trip to the castle is a must. Not only is the the history of the city centred around the castle, the views are the best from the high vantage point and there are active military museums to explore. I would recommend membership of Historic Scotland which not only gets you free entry to this but also encourages trips to other amazing landmarks and you quickly get your monies worth.
Written October 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

platybo
103 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Plan ahead and buy your tickets online. They're cheaper. We couldn't get online tickets last minute and went to the ticket booth. We didn't have to wait at all at around 11am on a Saturday. Just walk in and join the next tour. We were lucky enough to also see a bit by an "executioner" who gave a little historical performance inside the great hall with costume and props around noon (better double check the time). The self service cafe has great soup to warm you up after the tour and delicious pastries all reasonably priced and with a great view!
Written February 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Alan J
Norwich, UK33 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
A brilliant location and the audio guide is a must - a real shame that so many indoor spaces are shut due to Covid, particularly as we couldn’t get in to see the regimental museums, prison or war museum. Nonetheless the spaces that are open are well worth the entrance price and it really brought history alive for us, taking our time over 3 hours. Don’t miss the one o clock gun!
Written August 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

plb113
Gosport, UK76 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
We visited as a family this week.
The weather was against us, and with the majority of the inside areas closed we got very wet. There is nowhere undercover to wait for others to catch up ect. Had we not had to book in advance, as advised, we probably wouldn’t have gone. The areas that were open were very impressive.
However, many areas were closed, even the museum area. I am sure that some of these could have been open with some one way systems ect. There were certainly enough staff around.
We visited as a family of 6, with 3 older teenagers (all students), and a 21 year old. There is no discount offered for students, so full adult price for us all. Therefore we did feel that it was a lot of money for what we we able to see, and overall were disappointed.
Written August 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave your review regarding your recent visit to Edinburgh Castle. We are very sorry to hear that you were disappointed with your experience when visiting us. We have been working incredibly hard to ensure that we can re-open safely, but as a result of Scottish Government guidelines we are currently unable to re-open all areas of the castle. . While we were delighted to be able to devise one-way routes and access to key and popular areas such as The Great Hall, Palace Apartments, The Scottish National War Memorial and St. Margaret’s Chapel, the lay-out and narrowness of many of the internal spaces in a historic site made any additions nonviable. We introduced new scannable interpretation and have reduced the admission price accordingly. As a part of Historic Scotland, our job is to protect, present and promote Scotland's built heritage and we feel the reduced admission reflects the offer and helps us to continue our important work. Over the next few weeks we will be working to improve the offer at the castle and we thank you again for leaving your invaluable feedback.
Written September 1, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

nystrokedoc
11 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
Experience was likely blunted by the weather but would have liked a map that outlined a clear path through the various parts of the castle. Entrances and exits were chaotic with visitor flow in both directions.

Bought the audio tour which was narrated by “actual people” involved with the museum but it was a little heavy on production values and less on facts. Also, we weren’t told there were headphones (as opposed to using regular audio), which was obvious as we returned the units.
Written January 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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