Is there a dress code for Edinburgh Castle?

There is no specific dress code to visit Edinburgh Castle. However, it is advisable to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable footwear as the castle grounds involve some walking on uneven surfaces.

Can you take 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.

How hard is the walk to Edinburgh Castle?

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

How long does it take to go around 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 Edinburgh Castle worth it?

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.

Edinburgh Castle History | Edinburgh, Scotland | 4K

Is it better to go to Edinburgh Castle in the morning or afternoon?

Start early and stay as long as you like. You can see all of the highlights of Edinburgh Castle in a morning – or explore for an entire day.

What is the best time to enter 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.

Does the Hop on Hop off bus go to Edinburgh Castle?

Bus. The Airlink 100 express bus runs from the airport to the city centre. It takes 25 minutes to reach Waverley Bridge, next to the main railway station. Some hop-on, hop-off bus tours make a stop by the castle.

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.

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.

Can you take pictures inside 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.

What are 2 facts about Edinburgh Castle?

Edinburgh Castle was home to kings and queens for many centuries. Queen Margaret (who was later made a saint) died here in 1093. The chapel built in her honour by her son, King David I, is Edinburgh's oldest building. St Margaret's Chapel still hosts weddings and christenings today.

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.

Does Edinburgh Castle have toilets?

Toilets. Signage will direct you to the public toilets in: The ticketing area. David's Tower.

Should I bring cash to Edinburgh?

Credit Cards and Debit Cards

Contactless payment either by card or phone is also very common in Edinburgh and has a limit of £100. Note: Those travelling to parts of Scotland outside of Edinburgh are encouraged to carry some cash on them, as some more rural businesses may not support card payments.

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.

Does anyone live in Edinburgh Castle now?

Edinburgh Castle Owners and Residents

No-one actually lives in Edinburgh Castle today, but it has had many residents over the years.

Does the royal family stay at Edinburgh Castle?

With Edinburgh now recognised as Scotland's capital, Kings chose to live in Holyroodhouse, surrounded by parkland, rather than in the bleak Castle, high on a rock overlooking the town and exposed to the elements.

Is it cheaper to buy Hop on Hop off tickets online?

It is recommended that you purchase your hop-on hop-off tickets online in order to make the most of exclusive discounts.

Can I use my senior bus pass in Edinburgh?

You can travel for free on Edinburgh trams if the City of Edinburgh Council issued your bus pass. You cannot use bus passes issued by other councils on tram services, unless you are blind or visually impaired.

Do you need cash for Buses in Edinburgh?

You can pay for a SINGLEticket and DAYticket when you get on the bus. Just tell the driver what ticket you want, pop the coins in the box or tap your contactless card/device, take your ticket and find a seat. If paying by cash, make sure you have coins with you before getting on the bus.

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.

Can you walk up to Edinburgh Castle without a ticket?

Edinburgh Castle is a popular tourist attraction and visitors must pay an entrance fee to access the castle and its grounds. The admission fees for Edinburgh Castle vary depending on the season and age of the visitor, but you can expect to pay around £19 (as of 2023) for an adult ticket.

Why is Edinburgh Castle so popular?

Edinburgh Castle has played a prominent role in Scottish history, and has served variously as a royal residence, an arsenal, a treasury, a national archive, a mint, a prison, a military fortress, and the home of the Honours of Scotland - the Scottish regalia.