Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is the most recognisable landmark in Scotland, dominating the city's skyline from the summit of Castle Rock – an extinct volcanic plug. It is Scotland's most visited paid attraction and houses the Honours of Scotland (the Scottish Crown Jewels), the Stone of Destiny, the National War Museum, and St Margaret's Chapel – the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh, dating to the early 12th century.

History

Castle Rock has been occupied since at least the Iron Age. The present castle developed over centuries of royal and military use. It endured numerous sieges during the Wars of Scottish Independence and was a key Jacobite target. The famous One o'Clock Gun has been fired from the Half Moon Battery every day (except Sundays) since 1861. The Stone of Destiny, used in the coronation of Scottish and later British monarchs, was returned to Edinburgh Castle in 1996.

Visiting Edinburgh Castle

Open year-round. Managed by Historic Environment Scotland. Book tickets in advance – queues can be very long in summer. Allow 2-3 hours. The castle esplanade hosts the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo every August. Accessible via the Royal Mile from Holyrood Palace.

Highlights

• Scotland's most visited paid attraction
• Houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and Stone of Destiny
• St Margaret's Chapel – Edinburgh's oldest building (c. 1130)
• The One o'Clock Gun – fired daily since 1861

Private tours including Edinburgh Castle

We can include Edinburgh Castle in a private tour with a dedicated driver-guide and luxury Mercedes vehicle. Pick-up from your hotel, airport or cruise port.

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit Edinburgh Castle?

Open year-round. Managed by Historic Environment Scotland. Book tickets in advance – queues can be very long in summer. Allow 2-3 hours. The castle esplanade hosts the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo every August. Accessible via the Royal Mile from Holyrood Palace.

When was Edinburgh Castle built?

Edinburgh Castle dates from 12th century onwards. It is classified as a royal fortress and is located in Edinburgh.

How do I get to Edinburgh Castle?

Edinburgh Castle is in Edinburgh, Edinburgh. We offer private tours that include Edinburgh Castle with door-to-door transport in a luxury Mercedes vehicle with a dedicated driver-guide.