Edinburgh Castle
- Telephone 0131 225 9846
- Opening times 1 Apr–30 Sep 9.30am–6pm, 1 Oct–31 March 9.30am–5pm. As Easter is early in 2016 the summer opening times will be 25 Mar–30 Sep daily 9.30am–6pm
- Website www.edinburghcastle.gov.uk
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Sitting atop the volcanic Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates the city skyline and is the most popular paid visitor attraction in Scotland. Events at the castle include regular re-enactments of events from its history, occasional concerts by big-name performers, and in August, the Castle Esplanade is the venue for the world-famous Military Tattoo. Other attractions include James IV's famous cannon, Mons Meg, the One O'Clock Gun with its own exhibition, lots of military silverware and, of course, The Stone Of Destiny, used to crown Scottish kings since time began.
A proud and majestic symbol of Scotland, famous the world over. Unmissable highlights of Edinburgh Castle’s wealth of treasures are the crown jewels, The Honours of Scotland, which are amongst the oldest in Europe and The Stone of Destiny. The Great Hall has a striking arms and armour display. Also off Crown Square is the Royal Palace including the birthing chamber where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth. Don’t miss St Margaret’s Chapel, Edinburgh’s oldest building. The Scottish National War Memorial, a moving experience, is the shrine to those who gave their lives in conflict. Ask our team about our recommended 10 highlights.
Enjoying a Visit A free tour by one of our experienced guides will help make the most of your visit. Audio guides in eight languages are also available for hire. A children’s trail is specially designed for our youngest visitors.
Gifts & refreshments • The castle’s three gift shops sell a wide range of high quality souvenirs, books and gifts • The Redcoat Café offers a hot carvery, light meals, sandwiches and drinks. The Queen Anne Café is a stylish venue which provides distinctive Scottish cuisine and afternoon teas
Visit… • In Edinburgh at the top of the Royal Mile • Open all year. 1 April - 30 September 9.30am to 6pm and 1 October - 31 March 9.30am to 5pm. As Easter follows early in 2016 the summer opening times will be 25 March - 30 September 9.30 am - 6pm. Last tickets sold 1 hour before closing. Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Please note that opening times for the independent museums may vary • We recommend at least 2 hours to see the major attractions within the castle • Parking for drivers with a blue disabled badge • Steep inclines and steps - courtesy vehicle available • VisitScotland grading ★★★★★
Text supplied by third party.
Events at this venue
There are 5 events at this location
Sorted by title / date & time
Burns for Beginners
Ever wondered why people make so much fuss about Robert Burns? Come and find out in this informal introduction to the bard.
Sun 27 Jan
Included in castle admission. / 0131 225 9846
- 11:15
- 12:15
- 14:00
- 15:00
Mon 28 Jan
Included in castle admission. / 0131 225 9846
- 11:15
- 12:15
- 14:00
- 15:00
Tue 29 Jan
Included in castle admission. / 0131 225 9846
- 11:15
- 12:15
- 14:00
- 15:00
Wed 30 Jan
Included in castle admission. / 0131 225 9846
- 11:15
- 12:15
- 14:00
- 15:00
Crime and Punishment in Medieval Scotland
Executioner Gilbert Savage recounts the nature of crime and punishment during turbulent times in Medieval Scotland.
Sat 7 Dec
Included in castle admission / 0131 225 9846
- 11:15
- 12:15
- 14:00
- 15:00
Sun 8 Dec
Included in castle admission / 0131 225 9846
- 11:15
- 12:15
- 14:00
- 15:00
Mon 9 Dec
Included in castle admission / 0131 225 9846
- 11:15
- 12:15
- 14:00
- 15:00
Kylie Minogue
Pop behemoth Ms Minogue.
Fri 14 Jun
Times & prices to be confirmed / 0131 225 9846
Sun 14 Jul
£66 / 0131 225 9846
Mon 15 Jul
£66 / 0131 225 9846
Paul Weller
The Modfather performs material from his 40-year career, including his latest album True Meanings.
Thu 11 Jul
£52.25 / 0131 225 9846
The Proclaimers
Scotland's unforgettable musical twins return to the stage with their singalong Caledonian anthems.
Sat 20 Jul
Sold out / 0131 225 9846
Sun 21 Jul
Sold out / 0131 225 9846
Reviews & features
Preview: Deep Time – 'We're trying to make it as epic an experience as we can'
2 Aug 2016
After the phenomenal success of its opening event in 2015, the Edinburgh International Festival is kicking off with another big bang
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The Best Activities for Kids and Families in Edinburgh
3 Mar 2015
Places to go and things to do in Auld Reekie
Visitors have been climbing to the top of Camera Obscura’s rooftop chamber for over 150 years, so they must be doing something right. Up there, you can view Edinburgh through a giant periscope, ‘pick up’ a bus or person on a piece of paper, and learn…
A guide to Edinburgh Castle
16 Feb 2011
The capital's most iconic landmark is a must-see for any visitor
Castle Rock, the plug of an extinct volcano, is estimated to be 350 million years old. Archaeologists say that its grassy shoulders were the site of a settlement at least as early as 900bc, and by ad600 there was probably a feasting hall on the…
Take Me Out
2 Apr 2009
From cycling, pirate ships, dolphin watching and woodland walks to face-painting, castles, beaches and alien designs, Anna Millar handpicks some of the finest days out and events this Easter, whether you’re a big or a little kid
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