Edinburgh Castle

Perched atop an extinct volcanic crag, Edinburgh Castle is the most iconic symbol of Scotland's capital. Its complex history spans over a millennium, serving as a royal palace, a military garrison, and a prison of war. The castle's architecture is a patchwork of different eras, with St Margaret's Chapel dating back to the 12th century, making it the oldest building in Edinburgh. The Great Hall, completed in 1511 for King James IV, showcases a magnificent original hammerbeam roof and an extensive collection of weapons and armor.

Beyond its architectural marvels, the castle is a repository of Scottish national identity. The Crown Room houses the Honours of Scotland, the oldest Crown jewels in Britain, alongside the Stone of Destiny, an ancient symbol of the Scottish monarchy used in coronation ceremonies for centuries. The panoramic views from the castle's battlements offer an unparalleled vantage point over the medieval Old Town, the Georgian New Town, and out towards the Firth of Forth, making it a paradise for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.

Reasons to Visit

• View the Honours of Scotland, the oldest Crown jewels in the United Kingdom.
• Experience the daily firing of the historic One O'Clock Gun.
• Explore St Margaret's Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh.
• Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Firth of Forth.
• Immerse yourself in Scotland's military history at the National War Museum.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid visiting during the middle of the day in August without pre-booked tickets, as the queues can be hours long.
• Do not wear high heels or unsupportive footwear; the cobblestones are uneven and steep.
• Avoid driving to the castle; parking in the Old Town is extremely limited and expensive. Use public transport or walk.

Local Transportation Tips

Edinburgh Castle is located at the top of the Royal Mile in the city center, making it highly accessible on foot from most central locations. The nearest train station is Edinburgh Waverley, which is a steep 10-15 minute walk away. Numerous Lothian Buses serve the nearby George IV Bridge and Mound precincts. For those with mobility issues, taxis can drop off right at the castle esplanade.

Travel Etiquette

• Respect the solemnity of the Scottish National War Memorial by removing hats and refraining from photography inside.
• Stand clear of the cordoned areas when the One O'Clock Gun is being prepared and fired.
• Follow the designated one-way systems in crowded areas like the Crown Room.
• Do not use flash photography in areas where it is explicitly prohibited to protect historical artifacts.

Recommended Age Group

Edinburgh Castle offers a rich historical experience that appeals to a wide range of visitors, though the physical terrain requires some consideration.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. The steep inclines and uneven cobblestones make navigating with a stroller quite challenging. A baby carrier is highly recommended.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will love the castle's fortress atmosphere, the armor displays in the Great Hall, and the loud boom of the One O'Clock Gun.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The dark history of the dungeons, the military museums, and the impressive city views provide strong engagement for teenagers.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. The deep historical context, architectural significance, and cultural artifacts like the Crown Jewels appeal strongly to adult visitors.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. While the steep sections can be tiring, the castle provides a courtesy mobility vehicle to help visitors reach the upper levels, and the museums are highly accessible.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• A courtesy mobility vehicle is available on request to transport visitors with limited mobility from the esplanade to the top of the castle (Crown Square).
• Accessible toilets are located in several areas, including the ticket office and near the cafes.
• Many of the major exhibitions, including the National War Museum and the Crown Jewels, have ramped access or elevators.
• Due to the historic nature of the site, some areas like the Prisons of War have steep steps and narrow doorways that are not wheelchair accessible.
• Guide dogs and assistance dogs are welcome throughout the castle grounds and buildings.

Did You Know?

Edinburgh Castle is built on a plug of volcanic rock estimated to have formed around 350 million years ago. It is also said to be one of the most haunted places in Scotland, with tales of a phantom piper, a headless drummer, and ghostly prisoners from the Seven Years' War.

Cool Statistics

• Over 2.2 million people visit Edinburgh Castle annually.
• St Margaret's Chapel was built around 1130 by King David I.
• The One O'Clock Gun has been fired almost every day since 1861.
• The castle has been besieged 26 times in its 1100-year history, making it one of the most attacked places in the world.