The One O’Clock Gun at Edinburgh Castle
Experience Edinburgh’s iconic One O’Clock Gun, a historic maritime time signal fired daily from Edinburgh Castle since 1861.
The One O’Clock Gun is a historic daily tradition at Edinburgh Castle, firing a time signal at precisely 1pm since 1861. Originally used to help ships in the Firth of Forth set their maritime clocks, the gun’s booming sound complements the visual time ball on Calton Hill, especially on foggy days. Now a beloved cultural ritual, it continues to draw visitors who gather to witness this iconic blast, echoing through Edinburgh’s skyline.
A brief summary to One O’Clock Gun
- Edinburgh, EH1 2YT, GB
- +441312259846
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive at Edinburgh Castle at least 15 minutes before 1pm to secure a good viewing spot near the Mills Mount Battery.
- Bring ear protection if you are sensitive to loud noises, as the gun firing is quite loud and startling.
- Combine your visit with a walk to Calton Hill to see the time ball drop simultaneously with the gun firing.
- Check the firing schedule as the gun does not fire on Sundays, Good Friday, or Christmas Day.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take Lothian Buses routes 3, 27, or 41 to Princes Street, then walk approximately 10 minutes uphill to Edinburgh Castle. Bus fares range from £1.80 to £4.50 depending on ticket type; services run frequently throughout the day.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Edinburgh city centre to the castle takes about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect fares around £6 to £10. Note that parking at the castle is limited and not available to visitors.
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Walking
If staying centrally, walking to Edinburgh Castle is feasible and scenic, taking 15 to 25 minutes uphill on cobbled streets. Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven and includes steps.
One O’Clock Gun 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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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about One O’Clock Gun
A Maritime Timekeeping Tradition Born from Necessity
The One O’Clock Gun tradition began in 1861, inspired by a similar practice in Paris where a small cannon fired at noon to help citizens set their watches. Edinburgh businessman John Hewat brought the idea to the city, aiming to aid ships in the Firth of Forth with accurate time signals. Before modern technology, accurate timekeeping was crucial for navigation, enabling sailors to calculate longitude and plot safe courses. The gun’s firing at precisely 1pm coincided with the dropping of the time ball atop the Nelson Monument on Calton Hill, providing an audible signal when the ball was obscured by Edinburgh’s frequent fogs.Evolution and Location of the Gun
Originally fired from the Half Moon Battery, the One O’Clock Gun has been relocated to the Mills Mount Battery on the north face of Edinburgh Castle since 2001. Over the years, the type of cannon used has changed, with the current 105mm field gun replacing earlier models. The firing is carried out by a volunteer District Gunner from the 105th Regiment Royal Artillery, maintaining a ceremonial connection to the castle’s historic military role. The gun is fired every day except Sundays, Good Friday, and Christmas Day, continuing a practice that has endured for over 160 years.A Living Link to Edinburgh’s Naval Heritage
The One O’Clock Gun served a vital practical purpose in an era when ships relied on visual and auditory cues to set their chronometers. This was essential for safe navigation and efficient maritime trade. Although technological advances have rendered the gun obsolete for navigation, it remains a powerful symbol of Edinburgh’s maritime and military history. The sound of the gun reverberates across the city, audible from Princes Street and Princes Street Gardens, connecting modern-day Edinburgh to its seafaring past.Cultural Significance and Visitor Experience
Today, the One O’Clock Gun is a popular attraction for visitors to Edinburgh Castle. Spectators gather near the firing point just outside the Redcoat Café to witness the moment the gun is fired. The loud boom often surprises first-time listeners, adding to the spectacle. The tradition has also inspired local nicknames for the gunners, such as the famous 'Tam the Gun,' who served from 1979 to 2005. The event is accompanied by an exhibition that explores similar time guns worldwide, emphasizing Edinburgh’s place in this unique global tradition.Challenges and Preservation Efforts
In recent years, concerns about noise levels have led to adjustments to ensure the gun’s firing complies with health and safety regulations without losing its historic character. Measures include increasing cordon distances and providing ear protection for spectators. Despite these challenges, the One O’Clock Gun continues to be a cherished part of Edinburgh’s heritage, supported by the Ministry of Defence and Historic Environment Scotland, reflecting the city’s commitment to preserving this unique auditory landmark.Complementary Time Signals and Visual Landmarks
The One O’Clock Gun works in tandem with the time ball on Calton Hill, which has been dropped daily since 1852. While the time ball provides a visual cue for ships in clear weather, the gun’s sound ensures the signal is received even in dense fog. This dual system highlights Edinburgh’s innovative approach to maritime safety in the 19th century. Visitors can often see the time ball drop while hearing the gun’s boom, experiencing a slice of living history set against the city’s dramatic skyline.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Lawnmarket
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East Princes Street Gardens
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Thomas Riddell's Grave
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David Hume Statue
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Statue of King George Ⅳ
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Charlotte Square
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Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
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Unmissable attractions to see
Edinburgh Castle - Mill's Mount Battery
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Edinburgh Castle - Mons Meg
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St Margaret's Chapel
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National War Museum
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Edinburgh Castle
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The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Regimental Museum
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Scottish National War Memorial
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Royal Palace
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Great Hall
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Forward and Half Moon Battery
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Ross Fountain
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Edinburgh Farmers' Market
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Panoramic view Castle
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The India Cross
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Princes Street Gardens
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Historic urban oasis in Edinburgh’s heart, featuring iconic monuments, seasonal events, and stunning views beneath the castle.
Essential places to dine
Dine Edinburgh
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Beehive Inn
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Amber Restaurant
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TIMBERYARD
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The Witchery by the Castle
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Badger & Co
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Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
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Contini George Street
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The Pompadour
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Maison Bleue
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French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Aizle
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BABA
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Whiski Rooms
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Howies Restaurant
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Makars Mash Bar
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Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Portcullis Gift Shop
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Edinburgh Gifts
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Mangue - The Gift Shop
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Godiva
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The Treasure Trove
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Herman Brown
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One World Shop
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Carnivàle Vintage
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The Court Curio Shop
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House of Scotland
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Scottish Design Exchange
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I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
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The Enchanted Galaxy
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Armstrongs Vintage
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Olde Edinburgh
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Dirty Dick's Pub
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The Caley Bar
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The Bow Bar
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The Jolly Judge
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Hoot The Redeemer
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Liquid Room
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The Bongo Club
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Garibaldi's
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The Mash House
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La Belle Angele
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Lively
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
