Pundits say go in summer (June-August) for good weather, but it can be awfully busy. Try shoulder months in late spring, early autumn. Edinburgh Castle opens daily 9.30am to 6pm April to September, and until 5pm October to March.
What time should I visit Edinburgh Castle?
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.
How much time do I need 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.
What is the best month to visit 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.
Is it worth it to go into Edinburgh Castle?
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.
Which month is coldest in Edinburgh?
January
Winter in Edinburgh
The coldest months of the year are January and February, with average lows of 33.8°F (1°C) and highs that rarely exceed 44.6°F (7°C).
How hard is the walk to Edinburgh Castle?
Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 33 min to complete. This is a popular trail for running and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. I visited many years ago.
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.
What time do the cannons go off in Edinburgh?
1pm
Ships in the Firth of Forth once set their maritime clocks by the One o’Clock Gun. 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.
Can you walk around Edinburgh Castle without paying?
You can walk around the exterior including the cemetery without paying a fee. You can buy a pass and see both Edinburgh and stirling castle for a reduced fee. Edinburgh castle has the Scottish Crown Jewels on exhibit. Stirling castle was the home of Mary queen of scots.
What months are rainiest in Scotland?
There is, however, a lot of rain—nearly 5 inches a month during the heaviest rainfall months of November to January. In summer there is plenty of daylight to enjoy the outdoors. On the longest day, in June, the sun rises around 4 a.m. and doesn’t set until after 10 p.m., giving over 17 hours of daylight.
How many days is enough in Edinburgh?
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.
Is it cold in Edinburgh in March?
In March, the weather in Edinburgh is usually quite cold. The average temperature is of 5.6 °C (42 °F), with a minimum of 2 °C (35.5 °F) and a maximum of 9.3 °C (48.7 °F). On the coldest nights, which normally occur at the beginning of the month, the temperature usually drops to around -4.5 °C (24 °F).
Is it a long walk up to Edinburgh Castle?
There are 2 options to climb to the top. One being by using the steps which can be quite exhausting but there is always the road which has a path. Takes about 10/15 minutes at a slow pace. It isn’t very steep.
How much of Edinburgh Castle can you see 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.
What do I need to know before going to Edinburgh?
10 Useful Things To Know Before You Visit Edinburgh
- (Most) souvenir shops on the Royal Mile should be avoided.
- English money is legal in Edinburgh.
- Some men wear kilts.
- Locals grumble about the festivals.
- It’s cold.
- Avoid Edinburgh during the festival (if you’re not attending it)
Is Edinburgh expensive?
And while Edinburgh is certainly one of the most expensive cities to visit in the UK, there are ways that you can save money and it doesn’t really have to be all that expensive. On average you can expect to spend around £60-105 per person per day but this can vary dramatically based on your spending habits.
What month has the best weather in Scotland?
The best time to visit Scotland is during spring (late March to May) and fall (September to November). Temperatures are warmer by spring, with averages of 43°F to 59°F, although there will still be snow in the mountains of the Highlands and the Cairngorms.
What month does it snow in Edinburgh?
Months with snowfall in Edinburgh are January through March, November and December. In December, it is snowing for 1.7 days. Throughout December, 12mm (0.47″) of snow is accumulated. Throughout the year, there are 9.2 snowfall days, and 66mm (2.6″) of snow is accumulated.
How long is the Edinburgh Vaults tour?
1-hour
This vaults tour takes you beneath the streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town into a dimly lit space that many considered to be haunted. Your 1-hour tour visits the vaults of the South Bridge that date back to the 1700s. These are the same vaults mentioned on Most Haunted Live as one of the scariest places on earth.
How long does it take to explore the Royal Mile?
We recommend at least 2hrs to explore the Castle in your own time.