Does Edinburgh Castle have toilets?

The main visitor toilets are on the left as you enter the castle. Other toilets are located at David's Tower. The learning room has one accessible toilet. Edinburgh Castle is a very busy place; be prepared for large crowds.

How long does it take to walk around Edinburgh Castle?

You should set aside at least 2 hours to see the main attractions at Edinburgh Castle.

Can I bring a bag into Edinburgh Castle?

Security and bag restrictions

For reasons of ease of movement, visitor safety and general security, suitcases and large rucksacks (30L or over) are not permitted in the castle. We are unable to store luggage, prams, pushchairs or other personal items for visitors.

Is there a dress code for Edinburgh Castle?

Visitors are allowed to take non-commercial pictures inside Edinburgh Castle. Although there isn't any dress code, it is a good practice to wear appropriate and respectful clothes while visiting historical places.

Can you walk around Edinburgh Castle for free without a?

Edinburgh Castle

Whilst entry into Edinburg Castle isn't one of the things to do in Edinburgh for free, walking up to and around the outside or simply viewing from almost anywhere in the city, certainly is. We'd recommend The Vennel for a great place to take photos of it.

Edinburgh Castle toilets

Is it worth paying to go inside Edinburgh Castle?

If you're on a limited budget, Edinburgh Castle might not be for you—admission costs £18.50. But you can get pretty close to the castle just by walking up the Royal Mile, and that trek is well worth it; even from the outside, the view over Edinburgh is spectacular.

What is the best day of the week to visit Edinburgh Castle?

Tuesday – Thursday (Optimal Days)

Mid-week visits consistently provide the best crowd experience at Edinburgh Castle.

Can I bring food to Edinburgh Castle?

Tickets are valid for one entry only — you cannot leave the castle and enter again later in the day, so bring a picnic lunch or buy food in the castle's cafes if you plan to stay all day.

Is there a hop on hop off bus in Edinburgh?

What time does the Edinburgh tattoo finish?

What time does the Edinburgh Tattoo finish in the evening? Evening Finish Times: Monday to Friday performances typically conclude around 10:40 pm, while Saturday performances have varying end times based on the show's start.

How long does castle of Light take?

This event takes place on selected dates from 21 November 2025 to 04 January 2026 with timed entry slots from 4.30pm to 7.45pm. The recommended length of time required to see and enjoy the full trail is 1 hour. The trail is suitable for all ages, although children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult.

How to pack for Edinburgh?

Even in the summer months, Edinburgh can experience multiple seasons in one day and can rain year-round. As such, it's a good idea to pack lots of layers as well as a light raincoat in the summer months, and a thick jacket if you are visiting during winter.

What happens at 1pm at Edinburgh Castle?

One o'clock Gun Exhibition

The 105mm field gun is fired every day at 1pm, except Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day. The practice goes back to 1861, when the blast signalled the time to ships in the Firth of Forth.

Is Arthur's Seat worth it?

It is wiser to walk further on the grassy plain. However, the last stretch to the top also contains railings with chains for handholding. However, the 360-degree view from the top of Arthur's Seat is well worth the climb.

Is there food in Edinburgh Castle?

Food and Drink

Hot food is served daily from 11.30am to 3.30pm, while 'grab and go' options include baguettes, bloomer sandwiches and snack pots. The kid's box is full of healthy foods and fun treats, and a cake counter promises to tempt all ages.

Are backpacks allowed in Edinburgh Castle?

For ease of movement, visitor safety and general security suitcases and large rucksacks are not permitted in the castle.

Can I wear jeans to the Edinburgh tattoo?

Apart from in the VIP areas, there's no dress code to attend the Edinburgh Tattoo – jeans are in fact encouraged, because even though the event is in August it can still get very cold. Wear long trousers (like jeans), bring layers and definitely a jacket.

What is free to do in Edinburgh?

What is the best time to visit Edinburgh Castle?

This will give you enough time to see everything before the castle gets crowded. On the day: The best time to visit Edinburgh Castle on weekdays is early morning, before 10am. This is especially important during the peak season (July-August) when the castle can become very crowded.

Can you just turn up at Edinburgh Castle?

All visits to Edinburgh Castle must be booked in advance to guarantee entry. Please choose an entry slot for your arrival.

Who lives in Edinburgh Castle today?

Edinburgh Castle as a tourist attraction

Edinburgh Castle is now predominantly a tourist attraction. Although no-one traditionally lives there full time, it is always a hub of activity.

How long is the walk up to Arthur's Seat?

The Blue Route takes roughly 1-2 hours and offers scenic views of the park. The Green Route starts at Dunaspie Loch and is your beeline to the summit, taking just half an hour. The Red Route is great for those looking for a challenge. This route will reward two hours of hiking with fantastic views.

Does hop on hop off stop at Edinburgh Castle?

Some hop-on, hop-off bus tours make a stop by the castle.

What is peak season in Edinburgh?

January and February are the quietest months and easiest time to find accommodation. It gets increasingly busier from March. July and August are the peak months. It then gets increasingly less busy between September and November.