Free Tour of Edinburgh Castle
The ascent to Edinburgh Castle via the Royal Mile offers stunning views of the city from its iconic esplanade. As we cross its ancient walls, we will explore how Edinburgh Castle has evolved alongside Scotland’s history, becoming a symbol of the nation’s past. This historic monument has witnessed pivotal moments that have shaped both Scotland and the United Kingdom.
As Scotland’s most visited attraction, Edinburgh Castle has been home to a variety of historical figures and cultures, including the Celts, Romans, Robert the Bruce, William Wallace, and the court of Mary, Queen of Scots. Within its walls, you’ll find the Honours of Scotland (the Scottish crown jewels), along with the Scottish National War Memorial, a place of remembrance for Scotland from World War I to the present day. Visitors can also explore St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh, a prominent symbol of the city’s mediaeval heritage.
With a history dating back to around 900 BC, life began to flourish around this ancient volcano, and by 600 AD, the first fortress was built. Over time, wooden structures were replaced with stone, transforming the castle into a royal stronghold and a prime target for English forces. After surviving the final Jacobite assault in 1745, Edinburgh Castle transitioned from a military defence site to a national symbol, now attracting over two million visitors annually.
This tour also connects you with key historical figures such as Robert the Bruce, Mary, Queen of Scots, and Sir Walter Scott, while you immerse yourself in the history of this imposing fortress.
Accompany our expert guides for an unforgettable journey through the rich history of Edinburgh Castle, and then take your time to explore its museums, chapels, and grounds—each corner holds a story waiting to be uncovered.
At the end of the tour, you are free to continue exploring at your own pace, enjoying the museums, chapels, and plazas. This Edinburgh Castle Free Tour offers a flexible and personalized experience, perfect for those looking to discover Scotland’s most famous monument.
Join us today and decide how much your experience is worth!
Purchase your tickets with us here.
When purchasing your tickets, please keep the following in mind:
- You will need to buy your own ticket or use your Explorer Pass. If you prefer, you can reserve your entry through us.
- Ensure the ticket you purchase is valid for the time of your tour:
- If your tour is at 10:00 am, buy a ticket for the 10:30 am to 11:00 am slot.
Please note that if you have an Explorer Pass or are a member of Historic Environment Scotland, you will still need to book a time slot for entry.
Meeting Point:
Departure from 190 High Street, right in the heart of the Royal Mile.
Royal Mile Closes:
Discover how Edinburgh’s unique urban layout, with its narrow “closes” and passageways, became a natural defense for the city, unintentionally protecting it from invaders.
Castle Esplanade:
A key space for both the castle’s defense and significant commemorations and historical events. This is where our journey into the history of Edinburgh Castle begins.
Victorian Wall:
Learn how, in the 19th century, the castle was enhanced with the construction of this wall, adorned with sculptures of national heroes, and the role it played in the castle’s restoration.
Argyle Battery:
From this prime viewpoint, enjoy spectacular views while learning about the complete history of Edinburgh Castle, from its volcanic origins to its current importance.
Hospital Square:
Explore the old Castle Hospital, one of the fortress’s most prominent institutions, which now houses the National War Museum, a must-see for military history enthusiasts.
Governor’s House:
Learn about the Governor’s role at Edinburgh Castle, both in the past and today. Can you imagine living inside the castle?
New Barracks:
The largest building inside the castle, which still has military functions today. It also offers an interesting museum, filled with fascinating stories about military life.
Foog Gate:
One of the oldest and most enigmatic defenses of the castle. Discover its mysterious name and its importance in the fortress’s defense.
St. Margaret’s Chapel:
The oldest building in Edinburgh, a medieval gem that has stood the test of time and remains a symbol of devotion and historical architecture. Do you know how Queen Margaret became a saint?
Crown Square:
The heart of the castle, surrounded by its most important buildings: the Royal Palace, where James VI was born, the imposing Great Hall, and the solemn Scottish National War Memorial.
- Duration
- 2 hours
- 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
- Departure Point
- 190 High Street (Royal Mile)
- e-ticket
- Printed or mobile voucher accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (up to 24 hours before tour departure)
- Departure time
- 10:00
- Return Details
- 12:00
- What's Included
- Professional English speaking guide service from LochNessbus.com (Due to Edinburgh Castle and Historic Environment Scotland regulations, guides will not be able to guide in the rooms.)
- 2 hours of guided tour. Afterwards, you will be able to visit the castle on your own in more detail.
- What's No Included
- Meals: When the tour is over, you can replenish your energy in one of the Castle’s cafes.
- Entrance to the castle. You must buy your own entrance or use your explorer pass. If you wish, you can book your entrance with us. When purchasing your tickets, please keep the following in mind:
- You will need to buy your own ticket or use your Explorer Pass*. If you prefer, you can reserve your entry through us.
- Ensure the ticket you purchase is valid for the time of your tour; if your tour is at 10:00 am, buy a ticket for the 10:30 am to 11:00 am slot.
*Please note that if you have an Explorer Pass or are a member of Historic Environment Scotland, you will still need to book a time slot for entry.
*We recommend purchasing your tickets to the castle in advance, as they are currently only available online and not at the box office. This will ensure you have smooth access.
We recommend purchasing the Explorer Pass if you are thinking of doing some more tours such as:
- Stirling, Distillery and St. Andrews Tour
- Glasgos, Scottish Lochs and Doune Castle
- Loch Ness in its entirety
- Inverness, Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
- Outlander
You can book them in the Tours and Excursions / Day Tours section.
Mikayla
We were with Xavi, who gave us many historical data and commented on anecdotes that occurred in the castle. Recommended to get the most out of the visit to the castle
Maximilian
Impressive the amount of important data that the guide could give us in just 2 hours! We were amazed. Super recommended, gentlemen and ladies!
Ariel Chan
I think that without a guide I would not have liked it so much. I think that visiting the castle with a professional guide was a total success.
Anthony Novak
My wife and I have always had dreamed about the Scottish castles and this one fully met our expectations.
Emilie
We were delighted with the whole explanation and with the views from the castle. We would repeat again.
