Edinburgh Castle

Highlights

Edinburgh Castle has been voted ‘Best UK Heritage Attraction’


A key attraction within the castle is the Scottish Crown Jewels. The crown, sword and sceptre are amongst the oldest regalia in Europe and are displayed with the Stone of Destiny, the coronation seat of Scottish Kings.


The tiny St Margaret’s Chapel, the Royal Apartments and the Great Hall, built by James IV in 1511, are other impressive parts of the castle to explore.


The atmospheric Prisons of War visitor experience recalls the late 18th century when captured sailors from many countries, including the newly independent USA, were locked in the underground vaults.


Off Crown Square is the Scottish National War Memorial, shrine to those who have given their lives in world conflicts. Other military history at the Castle includes the National War Museum of Scotland, the Royal Scots Regimental Museum and the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Regimental Museum.


Other attractions include Mons Meg, a huge cannon which is among Europe’s oldest surviving medieval bombards; the famous One o’Clock Gun, fired almost every day since 1861; and the Dog Cemetery, where mascots and officers’ pets have been laid to rest since the 1840s.

Edinburgh Castle is part of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site.

Location

Region – Edinburgh and the Lothians
Postcode: EH1 2NG

Opening arrangements

Summer
1 April - 30 September, Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun, 9.30 am to 6.00 pm (last entry 5.00 pm)

Winter
1 October - 31 March , Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun, 9.30 am to 5.00 pm (last entry 4.00 pm)

Admission prices

Visit www.edinburghcastle.gov.uk to buy admission tickets.