Edinburgh Castle Entry to the castle is not free, but you can walk up to it and take in the fantastic views. Edinburgh Castle tickets are cheaper if you buy online (£18 per adult) but paying at the gate will cost £21.
Can I visit Edinburgh Castle without ticket?
You will still need to purchase a ticket to enter the castle. From experience, unless you have an interest in Scottish military history, the only thing of interest, apart from the stunning views, is the little bit of Scottish royal history and the exhibit of the Scottish Crown jewels.
Where is the best view of Edinburgh Castle?
6 locations for the best views of Edinburgh Castle
- The Vennel. The Vennel.
- St Cuthbert’s Churchyard. St Cuthbert’s Churchyard.
- Ross Fountain – Princes St Gardens. Ross Fountain – Princes St Gardens.
- Castle Esplanade. Castle Esplanade.
- Roof Terrace at National Museum of Scotland.
- Salisbury Crags.
Can you walk around Edinburgh Castle?
You will still need a ticket to walk around the castle. The outer walls are basically at the side of the mountain/hill with a long drop, and you need a ticket to walk along the outer walls.
Is Edinburgh Castle free for English Heritage?
English Heritage, Manx and Cadw members get half price entry in your first year and free entry for renewal and life members. Please make an online booking to guarantee entry. Carers who accompany visitors with disabilities receive free entry.
Is it easy to walk up to Edinburgh Castle?
It’s a gradual climb, we took the hop on hop off bus as far as we could up the royal mile then walked from there. Don’t take the steps on the left across from the audio guides, just keep walking up the main route and it’s not bad.
How much time is needed to tour Edinburgh Castle?
2 hours
You should set aside at least 2 hours to see the main attractions at Edinburgh Castle. Opening times for the independent museums at the castle may vary.
Can you drive up to Edinburgh Castle?
Car. There is no public parking at Edinburgh Castle. Castle Terrace NCP is the nearest car park. Blue Badge holders can request one of the limited number of accessible parking spaces on Castle Esplanade on a first come, first served basis.
What part of Harry Potter was filmed in Edinburgh?
Despite the connection between Edinburgh and the Harry Potter series, none of the filming for the movies took place in Edinburgh. However, you can find Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland, including the Hogwarts Express steam train.
How can I spend a day in Edinburgh?
Here’s what to see and do in Edinburgh in one day:
- Sunrise at Calton Hill (or visit at sunset)
- Breakfast at Princes Street Gardens.
- Stroll Princes Street Gardens & see the Ross Fountain.
- Short Visit to Scottish National Gallery.
- Explore Edinburgh Castle.
- Don’t miss the One O’clock Gun (1 pm at Edinburgh Castle)
How many days in Edinburgh is enough?
For first time visitors, we recommend spending at least two or three days in Edinburgh, which will give you enough time to explore the city centre and see the main sites.
Can you take pictures inside Edinburgh Castle?
The Scottish Crown Jewels are also in display in the castle. They include the crown, scepter and sword used in the coronation of Mary Queen of Scots in 1543. No photos allowed inside.
How long is the Edinburgh walking tour?
Free Walking Tour of Edinburgh
On this 2 hours FREE Tour your expert guide will show you the most attractive spots of this seductive city.
Can I use my English Heritage card in Scotland?
Discounts at associated attractions
Members can enjoy free or discounted entry at hundreds of attractions across England, and free or half price admission to hundreds more historic places cared for by Cadw, Historic Scotland, OPW, Manx National Heritage and Heritage New Zealand.
Can I use my National Trust card at Edinburgh Castle?
You can also use your card to visit heritage sites in Scotland, looked after by the National Trust for Scotland.
Can I use my English Heritage card at National Trust?
National Trust covers all sites in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Heritage sites in Scotland are looked after by Historic Scotland, which is a similar charitable trust. What is this? However, you can still access these sites with your membership card for free.
What is the best time of the day to visit Edinburgh Castle?
first thing in the morning
As many visitors (especially those coming from cruise ships) plan to visit the castle first thing in the morning, there can be considerable crowds at opening time. For a (slightly) quieter visit, going in after 1pm is recommended.
Can you wear trainers in bars in Edinburgh?
Trainers are normally a no-no. Exact dress code can vary from bar to bar, and often depends on time of day and day of the week.
How steep is the walk up to Edinburgh Castle?
You enter the castle from a steep curved route. It is 15 degrees at its steepest point, the average is five degrees and it is approximately 350m from entering the castle to the top level at Crown Square. It is surfaced with cobbles, which can be uneven.
What time do the cannons go off at Edinburgh Castle?
The firing of the gun dates back to 1861, when businessman John Hewat brought the idea to Edinburgh from Paris. The gun is still fired every day at 1pm, except on Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day.
How long is the walk up Arthur’s Seat?
Climbing to the top of Arthur’s Seat and back takes about two hours, or you can choose a low-level, easier option. Get in touch to find out more, or visit the Guided Tours on Arthur’s Seat page.