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General view of Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle Defender of the Nation

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most exciting historic sites in Western Europe. Set in the heart of Scotland's dynamic capital city, it is sure to capture your imagination. The scenery will take your breath away.

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Buy tickets in advance for best price and guaranteed entry

Plan your visit

  • Open from 9.30am daily, currently closing at 5pm (last entry 4pm).

    Opening times

  • To guarantee entry on the date and at the time of your choice, you must buy your tickets online in advance.

    Tickets

  • The castle is in Edinburgh City Centre, reachable by bus, tram and train.

    Getting here

Buy an Explorer Pass

Pay once for a 3, 7 or 14 day Explorer Pass and get free entry to over 70 heritage attractions.
Costumed performer taking the Rebels and Redcoats performance

Public Performances

We regularly have costumed performers bringing the history of the castle to life

 5 people enjoying Afternoon Tea with prosecco in the Tea Rooms

Afternoon Tea Experience

Indulge yourself or treat a loved one to an afternoon tea experience, which also includes admission to the castle

Things to see and do at the castle

There are many ways to experience Edinburgh Castle. Go straight to an exciting part, follow an itinerary, or allow an audio guide to show you around.

See and do
Sunset at Edinburgh Castle

Highlights

 Two women at the castle listening to the new audio guide

Tours, guides and itineraries

The background of the castle

Discover some highlights of a visit to Edinburgh Castle, from the Royal Palace and Honours of Scotland to Mons Meg and the Scottish National War Memorial.

The castle
Detail of the door of a prison cell in the Argyle Tower with a hand holding a bar

History

 Costumed performer dressed as Mary Queen of Scots

The Characters
General view of the Queen Anne Room set up for a corporate dinner

Hire a venue at the castle

Edinburgh Castle is a fitting backdrop to unforgettable corporate events and private dining experiences, the setting of exquisite weddings and civil ceremonies or the finest hospitality before the world-famous Military Tattoo.

Venue hire