The two costumed characters are being introduced as part of the ongoing HS efforts to enhance the visitor experience.
In this case the heraldic figures will talk to people about all there is to see in the castle and hopefully help raise ticket sales.
Barbara Smith, the castle’s executive manager, said: “The esplanade is a wonderful space and we have been working to make it a real part of the welcome to Edinburgh Castle.
“We believe these characters will be especially appealing to families and our younger visitors.
“They will have a particular story-telling role in terms of what the lion and the unicorn mean to Edinburgh Castle and where visitors can see these heraldic symbols throughout a visit.”
The costumed characters will also be able to tell people about offers and promotions – such as our current 18 months for 12 on membership.
They are also likely to be popular for visitors’ photographs, providing a memento of a visit.
They are being introduced for a trial period this season and may become a permanent feature.
About the project
- Lion and unicorn motifs are represented in coats of arms around the castle and are closely linked to its heritage.
- The Edinburgh Castle brand is partly based on the Scottish Lion Rampant – which also provides the confident red colour of the official logo.
- The costumes have been carefully designed to ensure the characters are friendly and approachable, particularly for the younger visitors.
- Other parts of the Edinburgh Castle Visitor Reception Project, have included moving the old portable ticket office from the esplanade and replacing it with an attractive and modern visitor reception area within the walls.
- A traffic reduction scheme is to be trailed between Monday 6 July to Sunday 23 July inclusive, during which coaches will drop passengers on the esplanade and pick them up on Johnston Terrace.
- A dedicated Edinburgh Castle website and online booking system have also been introduced, as well as new uniforms for staff.
- A trial scheme is taking place that will allow tour guides to pick up tickets at the bottom of the esplanade, saving them 10-15 minutes, and meaning their parties can enter the castle with no delays.
