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How & when to book

School activity programme
When booking a free educational visit, it is very important that you have all the information we require to complete your booking. If you have asked someone to book on your behalf please make sure they are fully informed with the details of your booking.

All bookings must be made at least 10 days in advance of your visit.


Please note: There is a charge for visits to Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle from May to August inclusive.


Information to have ready when booking

  • The name of the property you wish to visit
  • The preferred dates and times for your visit
  • The name, address and contact details of your school or organisation
  • The name and contact details of the group leader
  • The number and age range of the group
  • The number of supervisory adults who will be in attendance
  • The reason for your visit/topic of study
  • Details of any printed support materials you require
  • Details of any additional support needs your group or any member of your group might have and the help they might need on the day
  • If you would like to book a free planning visit
  • If you are applying for a Scottish schools travel subsidy

Adult to child ratio

Please note all adults get free access, but we have an adult to child ratio of at least 1:10.  Where applicable, the correct adult to child ratio should be:
  • 1 supervisory adult per 10 pupils/students over the age of 8 but under 16
  • 1 supervisory adult per 6 children over the age of 5 but under 7
  • 1 supervisory adult per 2 children under the age of 5
  • for special needs visitors it is suggested there is at least 1 supervisory adult per 4 visitors

When to book

All bookings must be made at least 10 days in advance of your visit, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Contact us

Education team
Historic Scotland
Longmore House
Salisbury Place
Edinburgh
EH9 1SH
Tel: +44 (0) 131 668 8793/8736