About Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle dominates the city skyline from its perch atop Castle Rock, an extinct volcanic crag. This royal fortress has been a military stronghold, royal residence, and prison for over 1,000 years. Today it houses the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and offers breathtaking views over Edinburgh. The One O'Clock Gun fires daily, continuing a tradition from 1861. Pair this stop with the Edinburgh guide and the wider Scotland overview.
⏰ Hours & Best Times
- Daily: 9:30 AM - 6 PM (April-September)
- Winter: 9:30 AM - 5 PM (October-March)
- Best: Early morning (9:30-10:30) to avoid crowds
- One O'Clock Gun: Fires daily except Sundays, Good Friday, Christmas
💰 Costs
- Adult: £19.50
- Child (5-15): £11.70
- Concessions: £15.60
- Audio guide: Included in admission
✨ Highlights
- 👑 Crown Jewels: Scottish regalia including crown, scepter, sword
- 🪨 Stone of Destiny: Ancient coronation stone of Scottish kings
- 💣 One O'Clock Gun: Daily firing tradition (except Sundays)
- 🏛️ Great Hall: Medieval banquet hall with stunning hammerbeam roof
- ⛪ St Margaret's Chapel: Edinburgh's oldest surviving building (1130)
- 🔭 Views: Panoramic vistas over Old Town, New Town, and Firth of Forth
📝 Tips
- Book tickets online: Skip queues and save money (cheaper online)
- Allow 2-3 hours: Lots to see, steep climbs within castle
- Wear layers: Exposed and windy on the rock
- August Royal Military Tattoo: Famous evening show, book months ahead
- Steep approach: Uphill walk from Royal Mile, take your time