There are plenty of benches in the open areas of the castle for you to sit and have a picnic.
Can you bring a backpack into Edinburgh Castle?
Security and bag restrictions
For reasons of ease of movement, visitor safety and general security, suitcases and large rucksacks are not permitted in the castle. We are unable to store luggage, prams, pushchairs or other personal items for visitors.
Can you walk around Edinburgh Castle grounds for free?
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 you walk around the grounds of 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.
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.
Can you take food into Edinburgh Castle?
Yes, there are no restrictions I am aware of and on my last visit pretty much 50% of the visitors were carrying a small backpack. There are plenty of benches in the open areas of the castle for you to sit and have a picnic.
How long should you spend at 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.
Is it a difficult walk up to Edinburgh Castle?
As a historical site, the castle complex can be difficult to access and navigate, especially for those with mobility difficulties – the whole site is on a steep hill, rising to a summit, and there are staircases around both the interior and exterior spaces, with uneven surfaces throughout.
Can you wear trainers in bars in Edinburgh?
There isn’t really a dress code, just try to keep it smart / casual. Probably best to leave the tracksuits and jogging bottoms at home. Smart shorts are fine, avoid sports shorts. Yes, you can wear trainers.
Can I park in Edinburgh Castle?
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.
Can you take photos 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.
Is food expensive in Edinburgh?
While meal prices in Edinburgh can vary, the average cost of food in Edinburgh is £31 per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Edinburgh should cost around £13 per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner.
Can I wear trainers in Edinburgh?
Going Out Clothes
Most places in Edinburgh will allow men and women to enter wearing jeans and a smart top. However they do draw the line at trainers.
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.
Does the Queen live in Edinburgh Castle?
The Palace of Holyroodhouse was Queen’s official residence in Scotland despite many wrongly believing that it was Balmoral Castle. The Queen would usually stay at the Edinburgh palace once a year in the summertime and last visited in June 2022.
How hard is it to walk up Arthur’s Seat?
The ascent of Arthur’s Seat is very steep and rocky. Alternatively, there’s also a lazy man’s route is up from Queen’s Drive to Dunaspie Loch and then straight up. Heading up to the summit from Dunaspie Loch you’ll find the paths cross ancient agricultural terraces carved out by early farmers.
Can you take a picnic into Edinburgh Zoo?
Picnic Areas
Whatever the weather, it is fun to eat outdoors! We’ve provided lots of benches and picnic areas to allow you to do just that. The two main picnic areas are located at the hilltop and around the main lawn in front of the mansion house.
Can you sit in Taco Bell Edinburgh?
Diners can now grab a seat in the diner, which is the American fast-food chain’s first restaurant in the capital.
Can you drink on the beach in Edinburgh?
In Scotland, each council has its own bylaws concerning public alcohol consumption. The City of Edinburgh allows the consumption of alcohol in public places but under the Edinburgh by-law, anyone drinking in public would have to stop if asked by police.
What is the best month to go to Edinburgh?
The best time to visit Edinburgh is June through August when the average high temperatures rise to a balmy 65 degrees Fahrenheit. But this is also the city’s busiest time for tourism, especially in August when festivals fill up the calendar.
How long is the Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh?
The tour will last, on average, just under 90 minutes. Although this may change depending on your walking pace or stops you wish to make along the way. You can use the map or this (PDF) to get the written directions. You might also be interested in a free Harry Potter tour with a live guide.