Magpie
4.8(6,865 reviews)

Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour

From£41
1 hour
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

About this activity

Experience Edinburgh's rich history with a guided tour of its iconic castle, featuring skip-the-line entry and expert insights into its storied past.

Highlights

  • Skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle
  • Expert guided walking tour
  • Access to all castle exhibits and attractions
  • Explore the Royal Palace and St. Margaret's Chapel
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh from the castle ramparts

Full description

Step into Scotland's past with a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock. Skip the lines and delve into centuries of history as your expert guide brings tales of royalty, battles, and legends to life. Wander through the Royal Palace, stand in awe at St. Margaret's Chapel—the city's oldest surviving building—and gaze upon the Scottish Crown Jewels. From the castle's ramparts, take in breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh's Old and New Towns, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This tour offers an immersive journey into Scotland's rich heritage, making it a must-do for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Included / Excluded

  • Skip-the-line entry to Edinburgh Castle
  • Expert guided walking tour
  • Access to all castle exhibits and attractions
  • Food and beverages

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • The tour operates in English; ensure you understand the language for full comprehension.
  • Photography is allowed, but tripods and professional equipment may be restricted.
  • The castle is wheelchair accessible, but some areas may be challenging to navigate.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and historic sites.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as parts of the tour are outdoors.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

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

Accessibility

  • Stroller Accessible

Good to know

  • Please note in poor weather conditions the tour will remain outdoors as access to the castle buildings is not available for tour groups
  • Tour will be inside the castle walls, but outdoors, with free time after the tour to to explore the castle an to go inside every building (Museums, Royal Palace, prisons, and much more). We can not access those buildings during the tour, but the tour will still be carried out within the castle grounds.
  • The castle is a complex of buildings, not a single building.
  • On this tour you will be guided around Edinburgh castle, with specific stops assigned by the castle authorities.
  • Bags over 30L in volume are not allawed inside the castle.

Traveler reviews

4.8
6,865 reviews
5
6,166
4
377
3
158
2
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1
96

Amazing Edinburgh Castle

Our Guide Jen was highly knowledgeable and enthusiastic. We learned a good deal of history and local lore during the 1 hour 30 minute tour. Highly Recommend!

KRedriOct 5, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Best way to get in when entry tickets are sold out online.

The guide waited for everyone and kept the group together. There were some interesting historical facts. We were pleased to get the guided tour tickets given that entrance tickets were sold out online.

Lauren_POct 5, 2026VIATOR

Highly Recommend

Ross was incredible. Funny, knowledgeable, and truly made the experience great. Would recommend to anyone interested in seeing the castle.

carters242Oct 5, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Would recommend

The castle has some amazing views and much more of it can be toured than other castles I have found.

kennethsT3786DFOct 4, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Visit the castle

Great experience. Very knowledgeable guide - James. Steps and slopes are not for the faint hearted. 1 o'clock gun is a must!

Ruth_DOct 4, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

Please note in poor weather conditions the tour will remain outdoors as access to the castle buildings is not available for tour groups Tour will be inside the castle walls, but outdoors, with free time after the tour to to explore the castle an to go inside every building (Museums, Royal Palace, prisons, and much more). We can not access those buildings during the tour, but the tour will still be carried out within the castle grounds. The castle is a complex of buildings, not a single building. On this tour you will be guided around Edinburgh castle, with specific stops assigned by the castle authorities. Bags over 30L in volume are not allawed inside the castle.
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