Does Edinburgh Castle sell out?

Admission. Tickets often sell out far in advance, especially over the summer months. Book your tickets online in advance for the best price and to guarantee entry.

Do tickets for Edinburgh Castle sell out?

We are open. Tickets often sell out in advance. Book your tickets online in advance for best price and to guarantee entry.

Are there queues at Edinburgh Castle?

There is very little shelter or public seating inside the castle. Edinburgh Castle gets incredibly crowded during the summer, so during July and August in particular you should expect to spend time queuing to access the museums and exhibitions, even after you get through the main entrance and ticket check.

Can you go to Edinburgh Castle without ticket?

You need to buy a ticket to enter the castle but you don't need a tour there.

What is the best time to visit Edinburgh Castle?

Get there first thing for it opening at 9.30. With pre-purchased tickets you should be able to pretty much walk straight in. Avoid noon at all costs.

Is EDINBURGH CASTLE worth visiting? | Things to know and how to prepare !

How long is the queue for Edinburgh Castle?

You can expect to queue for at least 15 - 20 mins before being ushered quickly past the Jewels. In our opinion, it really isn't worth the wait and children will get bored with the queue. The castle also contains the National War Museum of Scotland and the Regimental Museum of the Royals Scots Dragoon Guards.

How many hours do you need at Edinburgh Castle?

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 it to go inside Edinburgh Castle?

The castle is a wonderful place to visit when in Edinburgh. It's really big so you can spend a lot of time there (and has a nice cafe.) We got to see the daily canon being fired, which was fun. Make sure to visit the war memorial building, which is beautiful and sad.

Can you bring a backpack into Edinburgh Castle?

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 the walk to Edinburgh Castle difficult?

Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 32 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.

How long does it take to look round Edinburgh Castle?

We recommend at least 2 hours to visit the castle. For more information on tickets and what there is to see and do within the castle.

Is it a long walk up to Edinburgh Castle?

It's just a short walk to the castle, which can be seen from the station exits – though it's uphill all the way.

Can you visit Edinburgh Castle without a tour guide?

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.

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.

Can you drink alcohol in Edinburgh Castle?

You are only permitted to drink alcohol sold by our caterers once at Edinburgh Castle. Any alcohol brought onto the castle grounds will breach our licensing agreement and will be confiscated.

Can you take photos in Edinburgh Castle?

Of course you can. If there is any place where you can't (I am not sure if it is allowed in the Shrine, the memorial for the war dead, for example) there will be a notice telling you so. You can also take photos from the Castle which has terrific views over the city and the River Forth.

Can you take picnic to Edinburgh Castle?

A small daysack sized bag will be ok, an 80 litre backpacking sack probably not! You'll be ok to take food and drink in and as said there's places to eat it outside.

How long is the Edinburgh Castle light show?

This year's brand new show focuses on tales of magic, mystery and spectacular sorcery from Scotland's past. This event takes place on selected dates from 24 November 2023 to 03 January 2024 with timed entry slots from 4.30pm to 7.30pm. The recommended length of time required to see and enjoy the full trail is 1 hour.

Is Palace of Holyroodhouse worth it?

If you're one for the royals, a stop at the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a must. The palace is the official Scottish residence of the king and has housed many other notable royal figures throughout history, including King George V, Charles I and Mary, Queen of Scots.

Is Edinburgh Castle of Light worth it?

There really is something for everyone, with a few ghost stories thrown in along the way. Just ensure you wrap up warm and wear sensible shoes. Overall then, this year's Castle of Light is a mesmerising collection of magic moments - just ask the Dancing Knights.

Why is Edinburgh Castle so popular?

Edinburgh Castle is one of the oldest fortified places in Europe. With a long rich history as a royal residence, military garrison, prison and fortress, it is alive with many exciting tales. When you climb Castle Hill, you will walk in the footsteps of soldiers, kings and queens – and even the odd pirate or two.

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.

How many steps are there in Edinburgh Castle?

Count all 70 steps on the most direct route to the summit of the Castle Rock. This great flight of stairs once formed the original entrance to the castle. The gentler alternative route that winds up and around the cobbled hill was created in the 1600s for moving heavy guns.

What is the capacity of Edinburgh Castle?

The castle concerts have been going for more than 30 years and give Edinburgh what its doesn't currently have, namely a world-class venue with a capacity of 8,500, which can be used to showcase the best in popular music.