Where Do You Park When Visiting 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.

How much is it to park in Castle Terrace Edinburgh?

Edinburgh Castle Terrace compared to other car parks nearby

1 hour £4.95
6 to 7 hours £34.65
7 to 24 hours £35.95
Evening rate 1700-2359 £8.95
App 1 hour £3.95

Can you walk around the outside 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.

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.

Is it easy to walk up 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.

Does Edinburgh Castle have free parking?

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.

Is parking difficult in Edinburgh?

Parking in Edinburgh’s different areas
Parking in Edinburgh centre may be difficult. We always suggest our guests to use public transport or walk to the centre and leave their car parking somewhere near to your guest house or with free parking.

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.

Is it worth paying to go inside 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.

Where is the best view of Edinburgh Castle?

6 locations for the best views of Edinburgh Castle

  1. The Vennel. The Vennel.
  2. St Cuthbert’s Churchyard. St Cuthbert’s Churchyard.
  3. Ross Fountain – Princes St Gardens. Ross Fountain – Princes St Gardens.
  4. Castle Esplanade. Castle Esplanade.
  5. Roof Terrace at National Museum of Scotland.
  6. Salisbury Crags.

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 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 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 it worth getting the audio guide for Edinburgh Castle?

You will find plasticated guide sheets in many rooms. The audio tour will take you on a pre-ordained route INTO most of the castle, and will give more detail than the guide would. Personally I’d use the guide, before revisiting places of real interest.

How many steps is Jacob’s Ladder Edinburgh?

140 steps
Jacob’s Ladder in Edinburgh is a steep pedestrian pathway carved into the volcanic rock of the iconic Calton Hill in the city centre. Consisting of 140 steps, the route first appeared on a map in 1784 although it is thought to have existed long before then.

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.

Where is the best place to park in Edinburgh?

Car park locations

  • Blackfriars Street – EH1 1TH (provided by Raddison Blu)
  • Castle Terrace – EH1 2EN (provided by NCP)
  • Fountain Park – EH11 1AF (provided by Land Securities)
  • Omni Centre – EH1 3AN (provided by Q-Park)
  • Quartermile – EH3 9AU (provided by Q-Park)
  • Holyrood Road – EH8 9UL (provided by NCP)

How expensive is parking in Edinburgh?

Cost and times of pay and display parking

Streets Prices from April 2022
New Town, Northumberland St to St Stephen St & Royal Cres £3.70 per hour
Bruntsfield, Sciennes, St Leonard’s, Dumbiedykes, Stockbridge & Dean £3.10 per hour
Extended Controlled Parking Zones (N1-N5 & S1-S4) £2.60 per hour
South Queensferry £0.90 per hour

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.

Is Edinburgh car friendly?

Edinburgh’s center isn’t particularly car-friendly, especially for those unused to driving in cities. Finding parking can be tricky, too.

How do you pay for street parking in Edinburgh?

If you don’t park where we have a contactless machine or have loose change, you can pay for parking using your phone and our RingGo service.
0131 516 4000.

  1. the registration number, colour and make of your vehicle.
  2. your payment card details.
  3. your address.