St Margaret's Chapel, Edinburgh Castle's Oldest Sanctuary
Discover Edinburgh’s oldest building, a serene 12th-century chapel dedicated to Queen Saint Margaret, nestled within historic Edinburgh Castle.
St Margaret's Chapel, dating from circa 1130, is the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh and within Edinburgh Castle. Built by King David I in honor of his mother, Queen Margaret, this small, serene chapel served as a private royal place of worship. Its original Romanesque chancel arch remains intact, surrounded by simple interiors and commemorative stained glass. Now open to the public as part of Edinburgh Castle visits, it continues to host occasional ceremonies and is lovingly maintained by the St Margaret’s Chapel Guild.
A brief summary to St Margaret's Chapel
- Castle Terrace, Edinburgh, EH1 2EL, GB
- +441312259846
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Purchase an Edinburgh Castle ticket to access St Margaret’s Chapel, as it is only open to castle visitors.
- Visit early in the day, especially on weekdays, to enjoy a quieter experience inside the small chapel.
- Wear comfortable shoes due to the castle’s cobbled paths and some steep climbs leading to the chapel.
- Look for the stained glass window depicting Queen Margaret and the replica of her gospel book inside the chapel.
- Check for special services like weddings or St Margaret’s Day ceremonies which sometimes take place in the chapel.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36 from Edinburgh city center to the Castle Esplanade stop, approximately a 10-15 minute ride. From there, a short uphill walk of about 10 minutes leads to the castle entrance. Bus fares range from £1.80 to £2.50. Service frequency is every 10-15 minutes during the day.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central Edinburgh to Edinburgh Castle typically takes 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £6-£10. Drop-off is near the castle entrance; parking inside the castle is not available.
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Walking
From the Royal Mile, it is a scenic 15-20 minute uphill walk to Edinburgh Castle via cobbled streets and steps. The terrain is uneven and steep in places, so comfortable footwear is recommended. This route offers great views of the Old Town.
St Margaret's Chapel location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Margaret's Chapel
Historic Origins and Royal Dedication
St Margaret's Chapel stands as a remarkable testament to Scotland’s medieval past, constructed around 1130 by King David I. It was dedicated to his mother, Queen Margaret of Wessex, who was canonized in 1250 for her devout Christian charity. The chapel is not only the oldest surviving building within Edinburgh Castle but also the oldest in the entire city. It predates most of the castle’s other structures, many of which were destroyed during historic conflicts such as Robert the Bruce’s 1314 siege and the 16th-century Lang Siege. The chapel’s survival through these turbulent times underscores its significance and resilience.Architectural Simplicity and Spiritual Atmosphere
The chapel’s architecture is modest yet profoundly historic. The original Romanesque chancel arch remains intact, a rare feature from the 12th century. Inside, the space is small and simple, with ten wooden benches added in 1993 for the 900th anniversary of St Margaret’s death. These benches, along with an alms chest, flower stand, and a display case holding a replica of St Margaret’s gospel book, enrich the chapel’s quiet dignity. The stained glass windows, including one depicting Queen Margaret herself, are later additions that add color and reverence to the interior.Changing Roles Through the Centuries
Originally a private place of prayer for the Scottish royal family, the chapel fell into disuse after the Reformation. In the 16th century, it was even repurposed as a gunpowder store, protected by bomb-proof vaulting. Its true origins were forgotten until rediscovered by antiquary Sir Daniel Wilson in 1845. Today, it is maintained by the St Margaret’s Chapel Guild, whose members ensure the chapel is always adorned with fresh flowers and cared for with devotion.Modern Use and Public Access
While the chapel was historically reserved for royal worship, it now welcomes the public as part of the Edinburgh Castle experience. Visitors can enter the chapel during castle opening hours, though access requires purchasing a ticket for the castle itself. The chapel still hosts occasional services, including weddings, baptisms, and the annual St Margaret’s Day celebration on November 16th. These ceremonies are conducted by the minister of Canongate Kirk, the parish to which the castle belongs.Location Within Edinburgh Castle and Visitor Experience
Situated on the upper levels of Edinburgh Castle, just beyond the Whisky and Finest Food Shop and through Foog’s Gate, the chapel is a quiet sanctuary amid the castle’s bustling historic grounds. The small size of the chapel invites a contemplative visit, allowing visitors to appreciate its ancient stonework and spiritual ambiance. Photography is generally allowed, and the chapel’s peaceful atmosphere offers a striking contrast to the castle’s military history.Legacy and Cultural Significance
St Margaret’s Chapel is more than a building; it is a symbol of Scotland’s royal heritage and religious history. Dedicated to a saintly queen who shaped Scottish Christianity, it connects visitors to nearly a millennium of faith and resilience. The chapel’s preservation within one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks ensures its story continues to inspire and educate all who enter.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
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Flodden Wall
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Milne's Court
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The Mound & Mound Place
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Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Floral Clock
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Discover the world's oldest floral clock—a vibrant, living timepiece blooming with history and horticultural artistry in Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street Gardens.
Rose St
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Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Rose Street in Edinburgh, a perfect blend of local culture, dining, and shopping delights.
Lothian Rd
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Explore Edinburgh's Lothian Road: A bustling hub of history, culture, and contemporary charm awaits every traveler.
Gladstone's Land
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Explore the historic charm of Gladstone's Land in Edinburgh, a captivating glimpse into Scotland's rich past with delightful cafes and stunning architecture.
The Writers' Museum
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Explore The Writers' Museum in Edinburgh, a tribute to Scotland's literary greats and a treasure trove for literature lovers seeking inspiration.
Lady Stair's House
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Explore Lady Stair's House: A historic 17th-century building in Edinburgh celebrating Scotland's rich literary heritage and home to the Scottish Poetry Library.
Lady Stair's Close
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Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
Lawnmarket
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Discover Lawnmarket, a historic street in Edinburgh rich in culture, shopping, and stunning medieval architecture, perfect for an unforgettable visit.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
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Explore the mystical Thomas Riddell's Grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic site rich with tales of the past and connections to the Harry Potter universe.
David Hume Statue
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A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
East Princes Street Gardens
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Explore the beauty and tranquility of East Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh, a hidden gem offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat.
Unmissable attractions to see
Edinburgh Castle - Mons Meg
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Discover Mons Meg, the colossal 15th-century siege cannon at Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland’s medieval military might and royal heritage.
Edinburgh Castle
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Explore Edinburgh Castle, a majestic fortress atop Castlehill offering royal history, breathtaking views, and iconic Scottish heritage.
Edinburgh Castle - Mill's Mount Battery
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Historic fortress atop Castle Rock offering iconic views, royal treasures, and rich Scottish military heritage in the heart of Edinburgh.
Scottish National War Memorial
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A solemn tribute within Edinburgh Castle honoring Scotland’s fallen heroes from World War I to today.
Royal Palace
0.1 km
Explore the Royal Palace of Edinburgh, a majestic historical landmark rich in Scottish heritage and royal history, offering breathtaking views and captivating exhibitions.
One O’Clock Gun
0.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s iconic One O’Clock Gun, a historic maritime time signal fired daily from Edinburgh Castle since 1861.
The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Regimental Museum
0.1 km
Explore over 300 years of Scotland’s only cavalry regiment in the historic New Barracks of Edinburgh Castle.
Great Hall
0.1 km
Step into the majestic Great Hall of Edinburgh Castle, a stunning medieval chamber showcasing royal history, architecture, and armory.
Forward and Half Moon Battery
0.1 km
Historic artillery batteries shaping Edinburgh Castle’s iconic silhouette with panoramic city views and centuries of military heritage.
National War Museum
0.1 km
Explore Scotland’s rich military history through artifacts, personal stories, and art within the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
The India Cross
0.2 km
A solemn Celtic cross memorial honoring the 78th Highlanders who fell during the Indian Rebellion, set against Edinburgh Castle’s historic Esplanade.
Edinburgh Farmers' Market
0.2 km
Discover fresh Scottish produce and artisanal delights every Saturday with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle at Castle Terrace Farmers' Market.
The Witches Well
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Explore The Witches Well in Edinburgh, a historical landmark steeped in folklore, offering a captivating glimpse into the city's dark past.
Ross Fountain
0.2 km
A dazzling Victorian cast-iron fountain beneath Edinburgh Castle, blending French artistry with Scottish heritage in vibrant color.
The Comedy Attic
0.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant comedy scene in the intimate attic of the historic Beehive Inn with top comedians and lively atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Beehive Inn
0.2 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
Amber Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.3 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
TIMBERYARD
0.3 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
Dine Edinburgh
0.3 km
Elegant Scottish brasserie above the Traverse Theatre, blending seasonal local flavors with refined service and a chic cocktail lounge.
Maison Bleue
0.4 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Howies Restaurant
0.4 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Whiski Rooms
0.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky selection at Whiski Rooms in Edinburgh's city center.
Badger & Co
0.4 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.4 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
Makars Mash Bar
0.5 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Ondine Restaurant
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
The Pompadour
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Experience refined modern Scottish cuisine with stunning Edinburgh Castle views in the elegant setting of 1925 at The Pompadour.
Contini George Street
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Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Aizle
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Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.0 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Godiva
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Herman Brown
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
Edinburgh Gifts
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Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Carnivàle Vintage
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
The Court Curio Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.4 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
0.4 km
Edinburgh's iconic artisan cheese shop where small-scale makers meet passionate consumers on the city's most storied street.
The Enchanted Galaxy
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Dive into a wizarding wonderland on Victoria Street, where Harry Potter treasures and fantasy fandoms burst from every shelf in Edinburgh's most enchanting gift shop.
House of Scotland
0.4 km
Explore authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at the House of Scotland, located on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
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Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
Mr Wood's Fossils
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Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
The Treasure Trove
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Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Olde Edinburgh
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Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
Scottish Experience
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dragonfly
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The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
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Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Bow Bar
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NQ64 Edinburgh
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The Jolly Judge
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Never Really Here
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Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
Innis & Gunn Edinburgh City Centre Brewery Taproom
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A vibrant craft beer haven in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for Scottish steak frites and an extensive rotating tap selection.
SKYbar Edinburgh
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Experience Edinburgh’s skyline with exquisite cocktails and stunning castle views at SKYbar, the city’s premier rooftop destination.
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
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Experience Edinburgh’s craft beer culture in a vibrant, historic setting with legendary wings, 28 taps, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
Dirty Dick's Pub
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Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
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Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
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Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
Hoot The Redeemer
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A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
The Caley Bar
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Copper Blossom
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
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Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Club Tropicana
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Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
The Liquid Room
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Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
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Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
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Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
El Barrio Latino
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Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Opal Lounge
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Legends
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Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
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Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Garibaldi's
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Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
The Mash House
0.8 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
