Edinburgh Castle

In 1639 the castle was seized in just 30 minutes! And was home to many royal residencies, like kings and queens for centuries. Like Queen Maragaret who died there in 1093. King James IV who The Great Hall was built for and one of the most famous icons, Mary Queen of Scots - to name a few!

Another fascinating fact is that this royal castle is built on an extinct volcano!

Things to See & Do

Throughout the year you may visit the Battlements, Great Hall, Royal Apartments, Crown Room, and the 900-year-old St Margaret's Chapel. When you delve into the depths below the Queen Anne Building and Great Hall, you will discover 2 tiers of cavernous stone vaults that were used as prisons during the war for many years, with prisoners from all over the world being kept there. Other highlights include the Stone of Destiny in the Crown Room, which has been part of the coronation ceremonies for most of the monarchs of England, and later Great Britain for hundreds of years, plus the oldest crown jewels in the British Isles!

Mons Meg Cannon

The iconic Mons Meg cannon, probably one of the most famous medieval cannons in the World, is fired at one o'clock Monday to Saturday (except when removed for essential maintenance), so check your watch and cover your ears! The castle is home to the National War Museum, which allows you to discover 400 years of Scotland at war through military artefacts, and treasured collections. You can also learn about how the castle and its buildings were used in the 18th century like the former storehouse was used as a military hospital!

Edinburgh Castle Museum

Edinburgh Castle's 2 independent regimental museums that are worth visiting. The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Museum in the New Barracks, and the Royal Scots Museum in the Drill Hall opposite. Both tell the story of 2 of the oldest regiments in Scotland, through memorabilia, personal accounts, artwork, and numerous other items. The Royal Scots Dragoon was raised to help King Charles II fight the Covenanters in the 17th century religious war.

Prisons of War

Then explore the castle vaults below Crown Square where the pirates and prisoners of war were once held in, during the 18th and 19th centuries. In dark, damp and cramped spaces that led to a grim way of life. The first prisoners were French privateers who were caught in 1758!

Edinburgh Castle has a lively programme of seasonal events for everyone throughout the year, plus the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo every August. Explore historic Scotland in a new way. And of course, you can explore the castle ground and castle hill, so take those wellies with you!

Food & Drink

Feeling peckish? Dine at The Tea Rooms. A stylish and elegant eatery nestled at the top of the castle in Crown Square. You can nibble on yummy snacks, and tasty meals or indulge in a traditional afternoon tea! Looking for something light? You can pick from soups, salads and sandwiches to some of Scotland's famously high-quality produce. Like smoked salmon and Scottish cheeses...mmm!

If you're looking for delectable pastries and moreish cakes, the Redcoat Cafe will satisfy your rumbling stomach. With a seasonal menu offering a range of toasted deli sandwiches, baguettes, snack pots, to croissants, scones, muffins and more! Both places also offer a tipple for the adults like Scottish whiskey, beers, wines, spirits and a range of soft drinks too.