Travel Guide
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Edinburgh · United Kingdom

Edinburgh Castle

Allow time for the walk up Castlehill as well as the visit inside. Check which areas you want to see before you book.

Edinburgh Castle · Edinburgh
Photo: Daniel Kraft · CC BY-SA 3.0 ↗

Getting there

Approach the Esplanade from Castlehill at the top of the Royal Mile. Allow extra walking time if coming from Waverley station with a steep route.

Admission

Reserve a timed ticket ahead for busy periods. Check closing and last admission times and keep your confirmation ready at the entrance.

What to see

Walk the ramparts for changing views and pick a few buildings to explore. The outdoor areas give context for the visit inside.

Plan your visit

The approach and some areas inside are steep or uneven. Leave time for the uphill walk and a weather change.

Allow two to three hours. Expect cobbles and gradients, check accessible routes if needed, and take a windproof layer for the exposed viewpoints.

Ratings and designations

  • UNESCO World Heritage In the Old Town of Edinburgh

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