A visit to the Edinburgh Castle is a must when in Edinburgh. Join a tour or stroll through the castle at your own pace. Kids will love seeing the Crown Jewels, the Great Hall, Mons Meg, and the views of the city.
Is Edinburgh Castle worth going to?
Edinburgh Castle is a world famous icon of Scotland and part of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site. It was recently voted top UK Heritage Attraction in the British Travel Awards and is Scotland’s number one paid-for tourist attraction.
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.
Is Edinburgh good for family holiday?
Edinburgh is a great destination for family holidays or breaks at any time of year, but avoid August and early September unless you’ve specifically come for the Festival – it’s packed and expensive.
Where can I take my kids in Edinburgh?
Family
- Edinburgh Castle. Edinburgh Castle is undoubtedly one of Scotland’s top visitor attractions and is perfect for family days out.
- Camera Obscura & World of Illusions.
- The Real Mary King’s Close.
- Edinburgh Dungeons.
- Dynamic Earth.
- Greyfriar’s Bobby.
- LOVE Gorgie Farm.
- Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh.
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.
Which is better to visit Edinburgh Castle or Holyrood Palace?
Both Edinburgh Castle and Palace of Holyroodhouse are recommended by professional reviewers writing for major publications. Overall, Edinburgh Castle ranks slightly better than Palace of Holyroodhouse. Edinburgh Castle comes in at 96 with recommendations from 9 reviewers including Fodor’s, Lonely Planet and Concierge.
What time is best to visit Edinburgh Castle?
Visit after 1pm to beat the crowds, says Globus local tour guide Richard Thomson. “The busiest time is in the morning with (tour) groups, and the afternoon is mainly families and/or individuals.
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.
How do I not look like a tourist in Edinburgh?
One of the biggest Scotland travel tips is to avoid shopping at tacky souvenir shops that sell imported stuff. You’ll find polyester tartan, cheap plastic toys, and a whole plethora of clichés. These shops are plentiful, especially on and around the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
Is Glasgow or Edinburgh better for kids?
Attractions for families: Edinburgh has the history, Glasgow the parks and kid-friendly museums. Kids will need to have a serious interest in history to get the most out of Edinburgh, though joining one of the Harry Potter walking tours will likely make the mass of stone buildings more interesting.
Is 4 days too long in Edinburgh?
Yes, three days is enough time to visit the most popular attractions in Edinburgh and explore the city center. If you’re planning to climb Arthur’s Seat or take a tour, such as a ghost tour or whiskey tour, then you may want to consider spending four days in Edinburgh.
Where should I take kids in Scotland?
Scotland’s Unmissable Family Attractions
- National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh.
- Dunnottar Castle, Aberdeenshire.
- Skara Brae, Orkney © Iain Sarjeant.
- Tall Ship, Glasgow.
- Jacobite steam train at Glenfinnan, Highlands.
- National Museum of Flight, East Lothian © Paul Dodds.
- Five Sisters Zoo, West Lothian.
Where can I take a 4 year old in Edinburgh?
With no shortage of great activities for kids, you can be sure that you and your wee ones will enjoy a great day out in Edinburgh.
- Camera Obscura and World of Illusions.
- Butterfly and Insect World.
- Gorgie City Farm.
- Time Twisters.
- Edinburgh International Climbing Arena.
- Royal Botanic Gardens.
- Wonder World.
- Our Dynamic Earth.
Can you walk around the grounds of Edinburgh Castle for free?
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.
Is Edinburgh Dungeon suitable for kids?
We recommend The Edinburgh Dungeon for children aged 8 and over, however entry is always at the discretion of the parent/guardian. Please be aware that children 5 years old and under will not be admitted. Children (5-15 years) must be accompanied by an adult (16 and over) at all times.
Can you just 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 cheap or expensive?
Edinburgh is famously one of the UK’s most expensive cities, but that doesn’t mean it has to cost you a pretty penny – there are myriad affordable things to do on a visit here.
Can I take 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.
Where is the nicest part of Edinburgh?
10 Best Neighborhoods in Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Old Town.
- Edinburgh New Town.
- Holyrood.
- Canongate.
- West End.
- Haymarket.
- Tollcross.
- Leith.
What is the most beautiful castle in Scotland?
1. Edinburgh Castle. Set atop a craggy extinct volcano high above Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh Castle is unquestionably Scotland’s most famous and important castle. This sprawling complex houses the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg.