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.

Open all year seven days a week; opening times vary throughout the year (see Christmas & New Year).
We recommend at least two hours to see the highlights within the castle.

## PLEASE BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLINE TO AVOID QUEUING AS WE ARE VERY BUSY THIS TIME OF THE YEAR ##

Opening hours

Edinburgh Castle dominating the city skyline © Historic Scotland
Summer
9.30am - 6.00pm**,  7 days a week
1 April - 30 September

Buy fast track tickets online
View of Edinburgh Castle in winter from Princes Street Gardens © Historic Scotland
Winter
9.30am - 5.00pm**,  7 days a week
1 October - 31 March

Buy fast track tickets online

** Last ticket sold 1 hour before closing. The opening hours of the independent museums within the castle may vary. To check opening hours, please telephone 0131 225 9846.

Note: the one o'clock gun does not fire on a Sunday.

Exceptions

Christmas & New Year Period

Closed 25 and 26 December

On 1st January, the castle is open from 11am to 5pm (last entry at 4:15pm)

Edinburgh Military Tattoo in August
During the annual Edinburgh Military Tattoo, opening times subject to change. Check website for details closer to the time.