Towering over the heart of Edinburgh, this iconic castle in Scotland is more than just a stunning fortress—it’s a living piece of history. Taking a tour of the castle is by far one of the best things to do in Edinburgh AND all of Scotland.

Whether you’re interested in the history of Scotland or just curious about what’s behind the iron gates, touring Edinburgh Castle is one of the most fascinating ways to explore Scotland’s capital.

Ways to Tour Edinburgh Castle

There are several ways to view this amazing castle in Scotland. Whether you walk through it alone or follow a tour guide, you’ll leave with a deep appreciation for what this legendary fortress has witnessed. You can purchase tickets directly from their website, or at the ticket center. Purchasing in advance is recommended.

Self-Guided Tour and Audio Guide

While inside Edinburgh Castle, I knew I would want to go at my own pace, so I decided to do a self-guided tour of the castle. I personally enjoy self-guided tours; however, I wish I had at least paid a little extra for the audio tour. You can use one of their devices or download it to your own phone once you’ve paid for your ticket. The audio guide provides more details of what you’ll be seeing.

Included Guided Tour

A 30-minute guided tour is also available with admission, however especially in the summertime, these tours sell out weeks ahead of time. If you’d like to take advantage of this tour, purchase your tickets online in advance and select a timed tour. Your guide will quickly provide an overview of the castle’s extensive history and architecture.

More Detailed Guide through the Castle

Edinburgh Castle provides an included 30-minute tour of Edinburgh Castle with the purchase of a ticket. HOWEVER, these tours can sell out weeks in advance. Book a longer and more detailed guided tour below when visiting Edinburgh Castle.

When To Visit the Castle

While choosing your timed ticket, you will need to wait until your selected time to enter the castle. HOWEVER, if you arrive late, you can still enter. Last entry is typically one hour before closing time. Advance tickets are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons during the summer and holidays.

Closed for Christmas and Boxing Day

Where in Edinburgh is the Castle

Edinburgh is a very walkable city, and the castle sits at the western end of the Royal Mile, the historic section of the city called Old Town. If you’re getting off the train from Waverley Station, you can easily walk to the castle (but be prepared for hills and stairs). On your way, you’ll pass adorable local shops and pubs all on cobblestone lanes.

If you’d rather not walk, it’s best to call an Uber rider, especially because there’s no parking available at the castle.

History and Significance of Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle has been used for Scotland’s defense for almost 1,000 years starting around the Iron Age. The oldest surviving part of the castle is St. Margaret’s Chapel, named after Queen Margaret dating back to the early 12th century.

Placed on the top of a long-extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle was once a major military site that witnessed many political conflicts. In its early years, the castle was captured by England in 1296 and later won back by Scotland in 1314 during the Wars of Scottish Independence. There was also intense damaged after the 2 years of cannon fire during the Lang Siege, a conflict that eventually led to Mary Queen of Scots abdication.

During the times that Edinburgh would experience battles, many of the Scottish royals would retreat into the castle and use it for a temporary home. Mary Queen of Scots even gave birth inside the castle to James VI. While this Scottish castle has many apartments used by Scottish royalty, to see where they would spend most of their time and would display their wealth, take an additional tour at a nearby palace.

Book a Tour HERE to see the Homes of the Scottish Royals:

• Palace of Holyroodhouse
• Stirling Castle

10 Highlights to Not Miss Inside Edinburgh Castle

This well preserved and beautifully placed castle in Scotland is absolutely one of the best things to do while in visiting Edinburgh. It’s home to Scotland’s Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and also several museums and memorials that pay tribute to Scottish soldiers. On your tour, enjoy how the castle showcases the country’s long history.

Castle Esplanade and Views

Before you start your tour of the castle, notice the large open area in front of the castle gates. It offers dramatic views over Edinburgh and is the site of the annual Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. It’s free to access and great for photos. Look out for statues of famous Scottish figures like Robert the Bruce and William Wallace flanking the entrance.

Scottish Crown Jewels

Referred to as the Honours of Scotland, a crown, sword, and scepter are the oldest crown jewels in Britain dating as far back at the 15th century. After the Act of Union in 1707, Scots hid the Honours of Scotland to stop the British government from melting them down or selling them.

Over 100 years later in 1818, they were rediscovered in a locked chest in the castle by a group led by Sir Walter Scott to find them. Now they are on display inside the Crown Room.

Stone of Destiny

Scottish kings once sat on this ancient sandstone block during their coronations, but England seized it in 1296, turning it into a symbol of conquered power. If you watched the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III, during the ceremony look closely under the Coronation Chair. You’ll see the Stone of Destiny, also known as the Stone of Scone.

After Scottish students reclaimed the Stone in 1950, officials placed it on display next to the Honours of Scotland. However, England still takes it back temporarily for coronation ceremonies.

1 O’clock Gun

Fired daily at 1:00 PM (except Sundays), this tradition dates back to 1861 and helped ships synchronize their clocks. The firing takes place near the Mills Mount Battery and is loud—so brace yourself if you’re nearby. Arrive early for a good viewing spot and a chance to chat with the gunner.

The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace, located in Crown Square, was once home to Scottish kings and queens and played host to key moments in the nation’s history. The last monarch to stay at the palace was King Charles I in 1633.

Visitors can see beautiful tapestries, sculptures and the Birthing Room where the birth of James VI to Mary, Queen of Scots took place in 1566.

St. Margaret’s Chapel

This small, peaceful stone chapel is the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh, dating back to the early 12th century. Built by King David I, the chapel honors his mother, Queen Margaret. Step inside to admire its Romanesque arch and stained-glass windows to appreciate part of the castle’s grandeur.

The Argyle Battery

Located along the castle’s western wall, the Argyle Battery offers panoramic views over Edinburgh and several historic cannons. It’s one of the best photo spots in the castle, with Arthur’s Seat and Princes Street visible in the distance. On clear days, you can even see the Firth of Forth in the distance.

Prisons of War Exhibition

Beneath the castle, you’ll find vaulted chambers that once held prisoners during the American Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. The exhibition includes graffiti carved by inmates, hammocks, and recreated living conditions. It’s a chilling but fascinating glimpse into life inside a wartime prison.

National War Museum of Scotland

Located within the castle walls, this museum showcases centuries of Scottish military history through uniforms, weapons, medals, and personal stories. Exhibits range from Highland regiments to modern conflicts.

The Great Hall

Built for King James IV in 1511, the Great Hall features a dramatic display of weapons and armor. It was once the site of royal banquets and parliamentary meetings. If you notice the red walls and stained-glass windows, they are actually part of a 19th-century restoration.

FAQs About Touring Edinburgh Castle

• Expect to spend between 2-3 hours exploring everything.
• Comfortable shoes are a must. There will be stairs and hills to climb to reach the castle and while inside the castle grounds.
• Bring a small umbrella or waterproof jacket. The weather can shift quickly, and to see many parts of the castle, you’ll be outside.
• Food is available at the Redcoat Café.
• Gift shop has everything from books, souvenirs, locally made goods and more.
• Re-entry back into the castle is unfortunately not allowed.
• Cashless payment is preferred.
• Walk-up tickets may be available, but only if not sold out online.
• If online tickets are sold out, no walk-up tickets will be available at the castle.
• We strongly recommend booking online in advance to guarantee entry.
• Your tickets will be sent as a PDF in your email confirmation.
• You can either print your tickets at home or collect and print them on arrival at the ticket collection points.
• British Armed Forces members receive free entry with valid ID.
• The time on your ticket is your recommended arrival time, but if you’re late, you can still enter.
• Tickets are non-refundable, but you may change the date of your visit if there’s availability.

Another Tour to Take from Edinburgh

During my time in Scotland, my group and I decided we wanted to see more of the country. We dedicated one day during our trip to touring the Scottish Highlands and taking a boat cruise of Loch Ness. It was one of my favorite tours in Scotland that I HIGHLY RECOMMEND.

My Thoughts After Touring Edinburgh Castle

If you’re traveling to Scotland and wondering whether an Edinburgh Castle tour is worth your time and money, my answer is definitely yes. Edinburgh Castle is so beautifully preserved from the interior to the dramatic views over the city. It’s one of those travel experiences that stays with you.

Take the time to notice the details in the architecture and appreciate how long these amazing buildings have stayed intact. I love to pick a spot in just think about all the history and time that has passed since they were built. You can feel the weight of history in every stone and corridor.

I set aside maybe 2 hours to see the castle before needing to head to the train back to London. I would recommend 4 hours to anyone who enjoys history and really learning. It’ll also give you more time to check out the gift shops and getting all the pictures you’d like.

If you plan to visit during the summer, BOOK YOUR TICKETS ONLINE AHEAD OF TIME! The tickets and the included tours sell out fast.

My Trip to Scotland

Watch my vlog on YouTube of my quick trip to Scotland!