We want to make your visit to Edinburgh Castle as enjoyable and memorable as possible. This section aims to cover everything you need to know before you visit.

Welcome to our Historic Scotland. 5000 years of Scotland's history, heritage and culture.


Historic Scotland


Edinburgh Castle is run and cared for by Historic Scotland, a Scottish Government agency. Holding the key to the nation's historic environment, Historic Scotland cares for more than 345 properties.

Ring of Brodgar
Including ancient tombs, majestic castles and soaring abbey ruins, the extent of our collection creates a colourful step into Scotland's past.

For tour ideas, view Explorer Tours

Urquhart Castle © Historic Scotland
From the Highlands and Islands to the Borders, we offer days out at Scotland’s most fascinating attractions.

Our collection includes the world-famous Edinburgh Castle, plus Stirling, Urquhart and St Andrews castles.

These great strongholds were the setting for many of the most significant events in Scottish history.
Skara Brae, part of the Orkney World Heritage Site © Historic Scotland
Other picturesque attractions include the great Border Abbeys – magnificent ruins set in idyllic countryside. Our collection of famous Orkney sites includes Skara Brae, a prehistoric village older than the pyramids and part of the Orkney World Heritage Site.

We care for these precious national treasures and give visitors the chance to enjoy and experience them. This guide gives details of 75 of Historic Scotland’s leading attractions. We hope it helps to plan your route.

For details of all Historic Scotland sites please visit www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

Contact us


Discover 5000 years of Scotland's history at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

Telephone: +44 (0) 131 668 8831/8664
Email: hs.explorer@scotland.gsi.gov.uk