Free Tour of Edinburgh Castle
Climb the historic Royal Mile up to Castle Rock and discover the majestic Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s most visited attraction. On this Free Edinburgh Castle Tour, our expert guides will take you through centuries of history, from the castle’s volcanic origins to its enduring role as a national symbol.
Explore the St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in the city, and marvel at the Honours of Scotland, the oldest crown jewels in the British Isles. Admire the mighty Mons Meg cannon and visit the National War Memorial, a tribute to those who fell since the First World War.
This tour also connects you with key historical figures such as Robert the Bruce, Mary, Queen of Scots and Sir Walter Scott, immersing you in the rich history of this iconic fortress.
At the end of the tour, you are free to continue exploring at your own pace, enjoying museums, chapels and city squares. This Free Tour of Edinburgh Castle offers a flexible and personalised experience, perfect for anyone wishing to discover Scotland’s most famous monument.
Join now and decide what your experience is worth!
Ticket Information
- You will need to purchase your own entry ticket here or use your Explorer Pass. Alternatively, you can book your ticket directly with us.
- Ensure your ticket is valid for the time of your tour:
- If your tour starts at 10:00 am, buy your ticket for the 10:30–11:00 am slot.
- If your tour starts at 12:00 am, buy your ticket for the 12:30–13:00 am slot.
- If you have an Explorer Pass or are a Historic Environment Scotland member, you must still reserve your timeslot to enter the castle.
Meeting Point
Departure from 190 High Street, right in the heart of the Royal Mile, where your journey through Edinburgh’s most iconic castle begins.
Royal Mile Closes
Discover how Edinburgh’s unique urban layout, with its narrow closes and passageways, became a natural defence for the city, unintentionally protecting it from invaders.
Castle Esplanade
A key space for both the castle’s defence and important commemorations. This is where our exploration of Edinburgh Castle’s history truly begins.
Victorian Wall
Learn how, in the 19th century, the castle was enhanced with this wall, adorned with sculptures of national heroes, and the role it played in the restoration of the fortress.
Argyle Battery
From this prime viewpoint, enjoy spectacular views while learning about the complete history of Edinburgh Castle, from its volcanic origins to its present significance.
Hospital Square
Explore the old Castle Hospital, one of the fortress’s most prominent institutions, now home to the National War Museum, a must-see for military history enthusiasts.
Governor’s House
Learn about the Governor’s role at Edinburgh Castle, past and present. Imagine what it would be like to live inside this historic fortress.
New Barracks
The largest building inside the castle, still active for military use today. It also houses a fascinating museum with stories about life inside the fortress.
Foog Gate
One of the oldest and most enigmatic defences of the castle. Discover its mysterious name and strategic importance in the castle’s protection.
St. Margaret’s Chapel
The oldest building in Edinburgh, a medieval gem that has withstood the test of time. Learn about Queen Margaret and how she became a saint, and admire this symbol of devotion and architecture.
Crown Square
The heart of Edinburgh 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:
- Inverness, Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
- Tour Loch Ness, Glencoe and Inverness
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.
