Admission + Guided Tour of Edinburgh Castle
Starting from the Royal Mile, we’ll head up its cobbled streets towards Edinburgh Castle and its esplanade, boasting stunning views over the city’s New Town. Next, we’ll pass through the impressive town wall and learn how, as the city of Edinburgh gained importance in the history of Scotland, its castle expanded and was witness to key events in the history of the United Kingdom.
Scotland’s most visited attraction, Edinburgh Castle, is where the country’s history was written. From the Celts and the Romans to Robert the Bruce, William Wallace and the court of Mary, Queen of Scots – they all played crucial parts over the course of its history. What’s more, the Honours of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny can also be found behind its walls, along with the National War Museum, which recounts the story of the British military.
The castle stands upon an extinct volcano and it was in 900 AD that life began to grow around it. From 600 AD onwards, its first fortress was built. After wood came stone, and after stone a refuge for kings and the main target for the English. It was after the last Jacobite Siege, in 1745, that this fortress laid down its defences as the city’s stronghold and became a national symbol, which today welcomes more than one million visitors every year.
Marvel at its history with full explanations in English by our tour guide, before you explore the museums and prisons within its walls.
If you wish to purchase your own ticket, please remember:
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If you booked with us for 09:00 am, you must buy your ticket for 09:30 am.
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If you booked with us for 12:00 pm, you must buy your ticket for 12:30 pm.
Important: Edinburgh castle is a fortress that is made up of various buildings. Our guided tour covers the streets and squares of the fortress. Neither our guide nor any other tour company is authorised to conduct tours inside the buildings of the fortress. However, after the guided tour, you will have time to explore the castle buildings as recommended by our guides.
What You’ll See
Get your ticket now for Edinburgh Castle
This iconic castle is the most visited attraction in Scotland, so it’s best to plan ahead.
With your ticket, you’ll be able to dive into centuries of history. Explore the oldest building in Edinburgh, St Margaret’s Chapel, and marvel at the stunning Crown Jewels. To make the most of your visit, we recommend booking our Free Tour of Edinburgh Castle, where you’ll learn all about its hidden corners and rich history.
IMPORTANT
If you’ve booked our Free Tour of Edinburgh Castle, remember to buy your castle entry ticket for the correct time:
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If your tour is at 12:00 pm, you must book your castle ticket for 12:30 pm.
If you’re only purchasing the Edinburgh Castle Ticket, you must collect it at our office located at 3 Old Fishmarket Close, Edinburgh EH1 1RW, on the same day of your booking or earlier. It is essential to enter the castle during the time slot shown on your ticket. The castle reserves the right to deny entry if you arrive outside your designated time.
Please also note that suitcases or backpacks larger than 30 litres are not allowed inside the castle.
If you don’t find availability on our website, you can use the following link to find more information on how to get your ticket for Edinburgh Castle.
- Duration
- 2 horas
- Travel
- Walking. The tour takes place in the castle’s inner courtyards. We recommend that you wrap up warm due to the cold and rainy weather conditions.
- Guide
- Yes
- Language
- English
- Lowest Price Guarantee
- 39£
- Departure Point
- 190 High Street (Royal Mile)
- e-ticket
- A printed version of your ticket is not required
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (up to 24 hours before the tour)
- Departure time
- 12:00
- Return Details
- 14:00
- What's Included
- Professional LochNessBus.com guided tour in Englis
- Admission to Edinburgh Castle
- 2-hour guided tour. After the tour, you can visit the castle on your own following your guide’s recommendations.
- What's No Included
- Meals: Once the tour ends, you can recharge your batteries at one of the castle’s cafés.
Emma B.
Our tour guide Callum did a fantastic job at sharing the history of the castle. We would recommend this tour to anyone who wants to fill their day with rich history and breathtaking views from the top! Well worth the money.
That Vegan Muslim
AVOID - our tour was initially cancelled as they couldn't book enough for the English speaking group so changed us to a mixed language one. We had to constantly ask the guide for assistance. For the final entry, she said a specific time 4:40 to meet. We waited but the group had already entered. No call, no text. VERY DISAPPOINTED. (Note: Company replied stating departure/entry was strictly enforced at 4:40 PM after a 10-minute courtesy wait)
Miao
Great tour with splendid views of the city and amazing tour guides. Tirelessly sharing historical backgrounds and ancient stories along the way. Excellent value for money and memorable life experience!
Alistair K.
Very disappointed with the organization. The group was far too large (over 35 people) which made it almost impossible to hear the guide inside the castle grounds. We felt rushed from one courtyard to the next without proper time to take photos. Not worth the premium price. (Note: Company replied that peak holiday crowds affect capacity, but they look to optimize group management)
Megan H.
Skip the long lines and book this! Our guide Callum made the history of the castle come alive. He knew so many details about the kings, queens, and battles. Having the admission included made everything seamless. 10/10 experience even on a misty November day.
