Edinburgh Castle 120-Minute In-Depth Experience with Expert Guide

5.0 (407 reviews) Edinburgh, Scotland
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Duration2h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 25 travelers

Overview

Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle with an expert guide. Admire the castle's treasures such as the Scottish Crown Jewels, St Margaret's Chapel, Mary, Queen of Scots Birthing Chamber, and more on our guided tour.

With your map in hand, your guide will lead you along the ancient cobblestone paths of this national monument. During the tour you will get to discover areas of the castle such as Hospital Square and the Western Panorama, where you can take in the breathtaking views. You will also see some of the more famous parts of the castle including: The One o'Clock Gun, Mons Meg, The Castle Esplanade, Crown Square, and more.

Your local guide will tell you stories of the incredible people who have shaped the Castle throughout the centuries. From stories about deadly banquets and daring midnight raids to the death of a queen and the birth of a king.

Be sure to set aside some time after tour for further exploration of the museums and exhibitions (not accessible during the tour).

What's included

  • Map of Edinburgh Castle
  • Professional Local Guide
  • Edinburgh Castle Entry Ticket
  • Gratuities

What to expect

  1. Royal Mile
    10m
    This is our meeting point. This is where we will get everyone checked in. This is where our introduction to the tour takes place before we head off to Edinburgh Castle.
  2. Edinburgh Castle
    Pass by
    We will get our first look at the castle from the esplanade, your guide will explain the geology of the area and talk about the first settlers here. You will also learn about The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
  3. Edinburgh Castle
    1h 20m · Admission ticket included
    This is where we begin our exploration of the historic fortress of Edinburgh Castle.
  4. Argyle Battery
    Pass by
    We will enter Edinburgh Castle through the gatehouse and we will arrive on the Argyle Battery where you will take in the views to the north and learn of the castles historic defences
  5. One O’Clock Gun
    Pass by
    Here we will learn about Edinburgh's famous time signal, The One O'clock gun
  6. The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Museum
    Pass by
    Climbing further up Hawkhill we will learn about the people who currently live in the castle, and those who have been held prisoner here throughout the centuries
  7. St. Margaret's Chapel
    Pass by
    Arriving into the Royal Quarters of the castle we will find Edinburgh's oldest building, St. Margarets Chapel. Hear about her life and how this building has survived to this day
  8. The Royal Palace
    Pass by
    Our final stop brings us into the beating heart of Edinburgh Castle. Crown Square where we find the historic home to our Stuart monarchs, The Royal Palace. We will learn of the palaces many residents and also of their most famous feature today, The Scottish Crown Jewels.

    This is where our tour concludes, you now have the opportunity to explore the castle at your own pace, armed with all the new found knowledge you've acquired. Your guide will remain in Crown Square to answer questions for as long as required.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

This tour DOES NOT meet at Edinburgh Castle. Please meet your guide in front of the High Court next to the statue of David Hume. Your guide will be holding a black and white umbrella with the EDI Tours logo on it.

End point

This tour ends in the heart of Edinburgh Castle giving you the opportunity to explore the site further at your own pace.

Additional information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • This tour is an outdoor experience, we recommend checking the weather forecast and dressing appropriately for the Scottish weather
  • This experience DOES NOT start at Edinburgh Castle. Please meet your guide at 379-381 High Street, Royal Mile next to the Statue of David Hume. Your guide will be holding a black and white umbrella with the EDI Tours logo on it.
  • Edinburgh Castle is still a functioning military garrison, therefore, the tour duration and itinerary may vary based on any ceremonial activities taking place.
  • Bags over 30L and suitcases are not permitted in the Castle and there are no left luggage facilities nearby
  • Ticket only valid on the specified date and time
  • Not recommended for travellers with mobility issues

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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5.0 (407)
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Operated by EDI Tours · Booked through Viator
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