Edinburgh Castle: A Timeless Icon of Scottish History
Discover the grandeur of Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress that showcases Scotland's royal heritage and stunning city views.
Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit for any traveler to Scotland. This historic fortress offers stunning views, rich history, and fascinating exhibits that tell the story of Scotland’s past. Explore the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the great halls that have witnessed centuries of royal history. Don't miss the One O'Clock Gun ceremony, a tradition that has been part of Edinburgh's life since 1861.
A brief summary to Edinburgh Castle
- Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NG, GB
- +441312259846
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Take advantage of the audio guide for in-depth insights into the castle's history.
- Don’t miss the One O'Clock Gun firing ceremony for a unique experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on cobblestone paths and exploring various levels.
- Check the weather before your visit, as the castle is exposed and can be windy.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head towards Edinburgh via the A720 or A71 from Midlothian. Follow signs for the city center and Edinburgh Castle. There are several parking options nearby, including the Castle Terrace Car Park (EH1 2EW). Note that parking fees may apply, which vary by time of day. From the car park, it is about a 10-minute walk uphill to the castle entrance.
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Public Transportation - Bus
You can take a bus from various locations in Midlothian to Edinburgh. Look for Lothian Buses service number 33, which runs frequently. Get off at the 'Lawnmarket' stop. From there, it’s a short walk up Castlehill to the castle entrance. Bus fares are approximately £1.70 for a single journey.
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Public Transportation - Train
If you prefer train travel, take a train from any Midlothian station (such as Gorebridge or Newtongrange) to Edinburgh Waverley Station. Once you arrive at Waverley, exit the station and walk up to the Royal Mile. From there, follow the signs towards Edinburgh Castle, which is about a 15-minute walk uphill. Train fares vary depending on your starting point, so check the ScotRail website for exact prices.
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Walking
If you're already in the city center, simply walk to Edinburgh Castle from nearby attractions like the Royal Mile or Grassmarket. The castle is well-signposted, and the walk is quite scenic, taking you through the historic parts of Edinburgh. The distance from the Royal Mile is approximately 0.5 miles.
Discover more about Edinburgh Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
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Princes Street Gardens
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The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle
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John Knox Monument
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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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Gladstone's Land
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Lothian Rd
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The Writers' Museum
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Lady Stair's House
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Rose St
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Lady Stair's Close
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Thomas Riddell's Grave
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Unmissable attractions to see
St Margaret's Chapel
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Scottish National War Memorial
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Royal Palace
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Edinburgh Castle - Mill's Mount Battery
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Castle Rock
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Great Hall
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Forward and Half Moon Battery
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The Gatehouse
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The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Regimental Museum
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One O’Clock Gun
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National War Museum
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Statue of Frederick Duke of York and Albany on the Esplanade
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The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
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Essential places to dine
Amber Restaurant
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TIMBERYARD
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The Witchery by the Castle
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Dine Edinburgh
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Maison Bleue
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Howies Restaurant
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Whiski Rooms
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Badger & Co
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Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
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Makars Mash Bar
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Ondine Restaurant
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The Pompadour
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Contini George Street
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Portcullis Gift Shop
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Godiva
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Herman Brown
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Edinburgh Gifts
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Carnivàle Vintage
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The Court Curio Shop
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The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
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The Bow Bar
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