Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most thrilling historic locations in the United Kingdom and a world-renowned icon, being part of a World Heritage Site that encompasses Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns.

Visitor Information: Edinburgh Castle

• Edinburgh Castle

  Description

  Positioned on top of a dormant volcano, Edinburgh Castle has been a commanding feature on the horizon of Scotland’s exciting capital city for hundreds of years and is certain to capture your imagination.

  Recently designated top UK Heritage Attraction in the British Travel Awards, the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s number one paid-for attraction, will take your breath away. No journey to the UK is complete without it!

  There’s loads to discover when you ascend Castle Hill to visit this expansive fortress and prior royal abode, today a major part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  St Margaret’s Chapel, constructed around 1130, is regarded as the oldest building in Edinburgh, and the delightful interiors of the Royal Palace, including the late-medieval ceiling of the Great Hall, which was erected around 1510, are certain to amaze.
  Amongst the state treasures on show in its walls, Edinburgh Castle houses Britain’s most historic crown jewels, the Honours of Scotland, which dazzle visitors to the site!

  Edinburgh Castle is the location of the Scottish National War Memorial and the National War Museum of Scotland, and some of the castle buildings house regimental museums. The British Army is still responsible for some parts of the castle, with it remaining an active military base.
  Finally, don’t forget to admire the panoramic views of the capital city of Scotland and have your photograph taken with this astonishing backdrop!

• Highlights

  Not to be missed when visiting

  The Crown Jewels: Marvel at Scotland’s Crown Jewels, including the Crown, Sceptre, and Sword of State, on display within the Crown Room.

  The Stone of Destiny: Discover the Stone of Destiny, a symbol of Scottish monarchy, located in the Crown Room alongside the Crown Jewels.

  The Great Hall: Step into the magnificent Great Hall, a grand space adorned with weaponry and armor, where historical events and royal banquets once took place.

  St. Margaret’s Chapel: Visit the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh, St. Margaret’s Chapel, a charming 12th-century church with intricate stained glass.

  One O’clock Gun: Experience the firing of the One O’clock Gun, a tradition dating back to 1861, signaling the time to ships in the Firth of Forth.

  Scottish National War Memorial: Pay respects at the Scottish National War Memorial, a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives in World War I and subsequent conflicts.

  Mons Meg: See Mons Meg, a massive medieval siege cannon that once played a crucial role in Scottish battles.

  The Royal Palace: Explore the Royal Palace, featuring opulent state rooms and the historic rooms once used by Scottish monarchs.

  Prisons of War Exhibition: Learn about the hardships faced by prisoners of war during various conflicts in this thought-provoking exhibition.

  Museum of the Royal Regiment of Scotland: Discover the history and traditions of the Royal Regiment of Scotland in this engaging museum.