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Home > Scotland > Things to do in Lothian Scotland > Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle

Perched right on top of an ancient extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle is the famous landmark that dominates the city skyline. It is located at the top of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, using the postcode EH1 2NG.

What to Expect and Enjoy
This is much more than just a ruin; it is a massive complex of buildings, museums, and war memorials. Walking through the gates feels like stepping back hundreds of years.

  • The Crown Jewels: You can see the Honours of Scotland, which are the oldest crown jewels in Britain. The “Stone of Destiny” is also kept here, which has a fascinating history involving kings and queens.
  • The One O’Clock Gun: If you are there in the afternoon, find a spot near the cannons. Every day (except Sundays and specific holidays), a field gun is fired at exactly 1:00 PM. It’s very loud and always makes the crowds jump!
  • St Margaret’s Chapel: This is the oldest building in Edinburgh. It’s tiny, peaceful, and very beautiful inside.
  • The Views: Even if you aren’t a history buff, the views from the “batteries” (where the cannons are) are incredible. You can see right across the city to the sea.

Best For and Time Spent
It is a “must-see” for everyone, but particularly great for families and history lovers. Because there is a lot of walking uphill on cobbles, it can be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

  • Duration: You should allow at least 2 to 3 hours to see the main parts without rushing.

Helpful Tips for Your Visit

  • Footwear: Wear comfy shoes! The ground is made of old, uneven cobblestones which are slippery when wet.
  • Food & Drink: There are tea rooms inside, but they can be a bit pricey. You are better off heading back down the Royal Mile for a wider range of cafes.
  • Savings: Booking online in advance is essential as they often sell out. If you plan on visiting other historic sites like Stirling Castle or Urquhart Castle, look into a “Historic Scotland” membership, which can save you a lot of money. They also offer discounts for families, seniors, and students.
  • Parking: There is no public parking at the castle itself. It’s best to use city centre car parks or the “Park and Ride” bus services.

More Places Nearby

Almond Valley Heritage Centre Arthur’s Seat Blackness Castle Camera Obscura & World of Illusions Dalkeith Country Park Dalmeny House Dirleton Castle and Gardens Dynamic Earth East Links Family Park Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World Edinburgh Ghost Tours Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) Edinburgh Zoo Five Sisters Zoo Fountain Park Foxlake Adventures Glenkinchie Distillery Hopetoun House House of the Binns Inveresk Lodge Garden Jupiter Artland Linlithgow Palace Lost Shore Surf Resort Malleny Garden Midlothian Snowsports Centre Murrayfield Stadium Tour Musselburgh Racecourse National Museum of Flight National Museum of Scotland Newhailes House North Berwick Harbour Rosslyn Chapel Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Scottish National Gallery Scottish National Portrait Gallery Scottish Parliament Visitor Centre Tantallon Castle The Edinburgh Dungeon The Palace of Holyroodhouse The Royal Mile The Royal Yacht Britannia The Scottish Seabird Centre
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