Frequently asked questions on Essentials for planning your visit.
## PLEASE BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLINE TO AVOID QUEUING AS WE ARE VERY BUSY THIS TIME OF THE YEAR ##
Frequently Asked Questions
Know before you go | Visitor Information
Know before you go
How long should I allow for seeing the key highlights of the castle?
We recommend that you allow at least 2 hours to see the must see attractions in the castle and to get the most out of your visit.
What's the weather like in Scotland?
The Castle includes both outdoor and indoor areas therefore we advise you to dress for the weather. Visit www.metoffice.gov.uk for up-to-date weather forecasts.
What safety & security policies should I be aware of?
Due to security procedures, bag searching may take place on admission to the Castle.
What are the rules on eating and drinking in the castle?
Eating and drinking is not allowed in particular places in the castle such as the Crown Room and Scottish National War Memorial, Royal Apartments, Great Hall and St Margaret’s Chapel. The Queen Anne Cafe and Redcoat Cafe can cater to your needs.
How long are your queues?
As a popular tourist destination, the length of our queues can vary especially during peak visitor season. To save time, buy your tickets online. When buying online, you can print your tickets at home or choose Ticket Machine Pick Up.
Are there photography restrictions?
Photography in not permitted in the Crown Room or the Scottish National War Memorial. We encourage customers to take pictures of the breathtaking views of the city from the Castle and their experiences at the Castle.
How do I get access to the War Memorial only?
All visitors wishing to visit the Scottish National War Memorial only should go directly to the Visitor Information reception, next to the Ticket Office, where we will be delighted to facilitate their visit.
Do Members of Historic Scotland get free entry to Edinburgh Castle?
Yes, all members of Historic Scotland are admitted into the castle free of charge. Members also receive 20% discount in the shops.
Do Military Personnel get free entry?
Only holders of valid British Military warrant identification get free entry. Applies to card holder only and not accompanying visitors.
Are pets allowed in the castle?
Pets are not allowed on-site with the exception of guide dogs and hearing dogs.
Can I smoke during my visit?
Smoking in all public enclosed places is prohibited in Scotland.
Can I store my luggage with you while I visit the castle?
Bags and backpacks are allowed in the castle and must be kept with you at all times. Please take particular care when visiting indoor spaces so as not to damage any of the artefacts on display.
What facilities are there for non-English speaking visitors?
Audio Guides are available in French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Japanese and Mandarin. Souvenir Guidebooks are also available in these languages as well as Gaelic. Both the Audio Guides and Guidebooks can be selected online when buying admission tickets and collected at the castle or are available on arrival at the castle.
Free Honours of Scotland leaflets are available in the Crown Jewels room in German, Spanish, Italian Dutch and Japanese.
Braille
The Crown Jewels exhibition includes Braille interpretation on the jewels.
Lost property
If you lose anything during your visit to the castle, please contact a member of staff at the earliest opportunity. All lost property is held in the Stewards’ Office for three days before being passed to Fettes Police Station telephone 0131 311 3131.
Visitors can contact the Stewards’ Office after their visit on telephone number 0131 225 9846 ext 238.
Visitor Information
Who do I contact if I need any assistance while visiting Edinburgh Castle?
Our Visitor Services staff are available to assist with your queries during the regular opening hours of operations at the castle. From questions on our facilities to how to make the most of your trip to Scotland, our welcoming staff are always happy to help. All our staff are uniformed.
Collection point
Visitor Information also acts as a sales and collection desk for pre-booked groups, Friends’ of Historic Scotland, Educational visits to the Castle and souvenir guides.
Visitor Information is located within the castle walls - walk over the drawbridge and turn right into the ticket office area. Visitor Information will be clearly signposted.
Book online tickets
Click on the Book Online button to access The official Edinburgh Castle webstore.
Exemptions
The Members of Historic Scotland’s 20% discount does not apply to any purchases made on the Edinburgh Castle webstore.
Prices may vary for special events.