Tourist Information UK

Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Edinburgh Castle is a formidable fort that was built by David I on an extinct volcano is Scotland's capital. Originally built in 1130 the Castle represents over 800 years of Scottish history and is a World Heritage site. St Margaret's chapel was also built in 1130 and survives as the oldest building in Edinburgh. Edinburgh Castle was home to the Kings and Queens of Scotland when staying in the city. It was not as comfortable as Holyrood Abbey but offered far greater protection.

All visitors can take a free guided tour around the palace where they can see the Great Hall built in 1511 and the State rooms where Queen Marie de Guise died in 1560 and her daughter Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to James VI in 1566. Alternatively you can hire an audio guide available in several languages.

The history of the Scots is uncovered in various exhibitions and museums including The Honours of Scotland (crown jewels), Prisons of War Exhibition, Scottish National War Memorial, The Regimental Museum Of The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards

Opening Times

Open everyday

Summer:
9.30am - 6.00pm
21 March - 30 September

Winter:
9.30am - 5.00pm
1 October - 20 March

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Ticket Prices

Adult - £11.00
Child (5-15) - £5.50
Concession - £9.00
Under 5yrs - Free

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Disabled Facilities

There is good access around a number of major sights within the castle but due to width restrictions, some areas are unsuitable for wheelchair access.

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More Information

Telephone: 0131 225 9846
Email: hs.ticketing@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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Hotels & Accommodation

Apex International Hotel Apex International Hotel
31-35 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2HS
Distance: 0.1 miles
Apex City Hotel Edinburgh Apex City Hotel Edinburgh
61 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2JR
Distance: 0.2 miles
Grassmarket hotel Grassmarket hotel
94-96 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2JR
Distance: 0.2 miles

Location Map

Find out how to get to Edinburgh Castle with directions and maps from Google.
Edinburgh Castle
Castlehill
Edinburgh
Scotland

Nearest Attractions

Edinburgh Zoo Edinburgh Zoo
The Royal Zoologicial Society of Scotland Edinburgh Zoo 134 Corstorphine Road Edinburgh Scotland
Distance: 2.7 miles
Royal Scots Regimental Museum Royal Scots Regimental Museum
Rhq The Royal Scots, The Castle Edinburgh Edinburgh Scotland
Distance: 0.1 miles
Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum
Moodie Street Fife Dunfermline Scotland
Distance: 13.0 miles