Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle dominates Scotland's capital city from its great rock. Its story has helped shape the nation's story.

About Edinburgh Castle

	Edinburgh Castle Castlehill, Edinburgh Old Town EH1 2NG
	01312259846
	Edinburgh Castle Website
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Listed Under Attractions - History and Culture / Attractions - Days Out / Attractions - Museums

Battles and sieges were fought over it, royalty lived and died within its walls, and countless generations have been and inspired by it.

In the 1600s, the castle became a military base. Some buildings were rebuilt and new ones were raised to house a huge garrison - and provide a secure jail for prisoners of war.

The military presence remains unbroken, but over the last 200 years the castle has become a national icon. It is now Scotland's leading tourist attraction, and a key element of the Edinburgh World Heritage Site.

Come to the castle and hear the rest of the story.

We take every opportunity to ensure the details for Edinburgh Castle are accurate, if any of the above information is incorrect we would appreciate if you could take a minute to suggest an edit.

All information (whether in text or photographs) is supplied in good faith but should not be relied upon as being a statement of representation or fact.

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Upcoming Events at Edinburgh Castle

Tour

Whispers of the past

Selected dates between 4th October 2025 - 1st November 2025

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Old Town

Join our guide for a journey through the grounds of this ancient site to explore the veiled past of Edinburgh Castle!

Family and Kids

Great Big Living History Week

11th October 2025 - 19th October 2025

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Old Town

Especially for the October Holidays sites all over Scotland will be hosting characters throughout history including Edinburgh Castle.

Family and Kids

The Mythical Mystery Hunt

11th October 2025 - 2nd November 2025

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Old Town

This autumn, follow Historic Environment Scotland's family trails to discover some of the magical and mystical creatures of Scottish folklore.

Days Out

Edin-boo! Castle: Halloween Shenanigans

25th October 2025 - 26th October 2025

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Old Town

Some special guests await you in the Great Hall at Edinburgh Castle and they have a story to tell!

History

Edinburgh Castle Gun Salutes

Selected dates between 9th November 2025 - 14th November 2025

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Old Town

Edinburgh Castle hold a number of gun salutes throughout the year to mark a variety of special occasions!

Nights Out

Castle Of Light

21st November 2025 - 4th January 2026

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Old Town

Make Castle of Light: Fire and Ice part of your festive plans and enjoy the largest annual projection show in the UK when it returns for its sixth year!

Talks and Lectures

Celebrating Burns

25th January 2026

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Old Town

Come along to Edinburgh Castle on 25th January to find out more about the bard and some of his works!

Theatre

Critical Role Live

12th July 2026

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Old Town

For the first time ever, Critical Role, the global phenomenon in storytelling and tabletop entertainment, is adventuring to Edinburgh with a date at the Castle on Sunday 12th July!

Nights Out

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

7th August 2026 - 29th August 2026

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Old Town

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo returns from 7th to 29th August 2026 with the show 'A Call To Gather'.

National War Museum

Edinburgh Castle Castlehill, Edinburgh Old Town EH1 2NG

Discover the story of Scotland at war within the walls of Edinburgh Castle with a visit to the National War Musuem.

History and Culture

Museum of Childhood Edinburgh

42 High Street, Edinburgh Old Town EH1 1TG

The Museum of Childhood has a place in the hearts of millions. The first museum in the world dedicated to the history of childhood, it displays toys and...

History and Culture

Rosslyn Chapel

Rosslyn Chapel Chapel Loan, Roslin EH25 9PU

Owned by The Earl and Countess of RosslynRosslyn Chapel was founded in 1446 as a place of worship and services continue to be held here weekly. The Chapel...

History and Culture

Nelson Monument

32 Calton Hill, Edinburgh New Town EH7 5AA

Nelson Monument is situated on top of Calton Hill, and provides a dramatic termination to the view along Princes Street from the west.

History and Culture

Curious About Edinburgh Tour

, Various Locations Edinburgh

Have fun discovering Edinburgh with two self-guided, heritage walks with an optional treasure hunt... buy or instantly download & get curious!

History and Culture

The Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse Canongate, Edinburgh East EH8 8DX

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, commonly referred to as Holyrood Palace, is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.

History and Culture

Traquair House

Traquair House , Innerleithen EH44 6PW

Traquair is a unique piece of living history welcoming visitors from all over the world. Enjoy the house, extensive grounds, maze, craft workshops, Garden Cafe and the famous Brewery!

History and Culture

Hopetoun House

Hopetoun House Hopetoun, South Queensferry EH30 9SL

Situated on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Hopetoun is a place of outstanding natural beauty, which has Scotland's finest stately home at its heart.

History and Culture

Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh

9 Queen Street, Edinburgh New Town EH2 1JQ

The RCPE is an independent standard-setting body and professional membership organisation. Our aim is to improve and maintain the quality of patient care.

History and Culture

Panmure House

4 Lochend Close, Edinburgh Old Town EH8 8BL

Panmure House is a 17th-century townhouse located in Edinburgh's Canongate. It is the only surviving residence of renowned Scottish philosopher Adam Smith, who lived there between 1778 and 1790.

History and Culture

Gladstones Land

477b Lawnmarket, Edinburgh Old Town EH1 2NT

Gladstone's Land, the house of wealthy merchant and landlord Thomas Gledstanes showcases high-rise living, 17th-century style, at the beating heart of Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile!

History and Culture