Exploring the historic grandeur of Edinburgh Castle has never been easier. The guided walking tour delivers a comprehensive look at this iconic landmark, led by knowledgeable guides who bring its captivating past to life. From the moment visitors step through the castle gates, they’ll uncover its architectural gems and hear tales of Scotland’s royal legacy. While the tour may not be fully wheelchair accessible, it caters to those with moderate fitness levels, offering the chance to soak up the castle’s atmosphere without the hassle of navigating it alone. What secrets and surprises await those who embark on this immersive journey?
Just The Basics
- This guided walking tour of Edinburgh Castle includes entry tickets, allowing visitors to explore the landmark’s architecture and history with a knowledgeable guide.
- The 2-hour tour has a maximum of 30 travelers and starts at Advocates Close, opposite St. Giles’ Cathedral, and concludes at Edinburgh Castle.
- The tour provides complete access to the castle’s exterior grounds and key landmarks, with the guide offering detailed commentary and insights.
- While the tour remains an outdoor experience, access to interior castle buildings may be limited or restricted due to weather or other factors.
- Visitors should have a moderate level of physical fitness to navigate the steep inclines, cobblestone paths, and varying surfaces within the castle grounds.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
This guided walking tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore the historic Edinburgh Castle, providing them with an entry ticket to the landmark.
The 2-hour tour accommodates a maximum of 30 travelers, led by a knowledgeable guide. With over 2,300 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a popular choice for those seeking an in-depth look at the castle’s rich history.
While the tour will remain outdoors in poor weather conditions, the moderate physical fitness level required ensures a comfortable experience for most visitors.
The tour focuses on specific stops assigned by the castle authorities, allowing guests to fully enjoy the site’s fascinating heritage.
Meeting and End Points
The meeting point for the guided walking tour is in front of the entrance to Advocates Close, directly opposite St. Giles’ Cathedral. The tour concludes at Edinburgh Castle, allowing participants to further explore the historic site on their own after the guided portion.
| Meeting Point | End Point |
|---|---|
| Advocates Close | Edinburgh Castle |
| Opposite St. Giles’ Cathedral | – |
| – | – |
This convenient starting and ending location ensures a seamless tour experience, enabling visitors to make the most of their time exploring the rich history and architecture of Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks.
Included Entrance Fees
The tour includes admission fees to Edinburgh Castle, allowing participants to fully experience the historic site during the guided walking portion.
With the entry ticket included, visitors don’t have to worry about purchasing separate admission. This makes the tour a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the castle.
Once inside, the guided component ensures you won’t miss any of the key highlights or important historical details.
Whether you’re interested in the castle’s architecture, its role in Scottish history, or simply taking in the stunning views, the included entrance fees provide complete access during the 2-hour walking tour.
Pet Policy and Accessibility
Only guide dogs are permitted on the Edinburgh Castle guided walking tour, as the tour route and castle premises aren’t fully wheelchair accessible.
While strollers can be brought along, the uneven terrain and historic nature of the site may pose challenges for those with limited mobility. Visitors are advised to consider their physical fitness level before booking this moderately strenuous tour.
The tour will remain outdoors in poor weather conditions, so participants should dress appropriately.
Access to the castle buildings isn’t available during the tour, as the tour stops are predetermined by the castle authorities.
Visitors should also note that large bags over 30L in volume aren’t allowed inside the castle.
Physical Fitness Level
Given the historic and uneven terrain of the Edinburgh Castle site, the tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness from participants. Strollers can be brought along, but the challenging nature of the tour may pose difficulties for those with limited mobility or stamina.
Participants should be prepared to navigate steep inclines, cobblestone paths, and a variety of surfaces throughout the tour. The guide will lead the group at a steady pace, but there may be the need to pause periodically for rest breaks.
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Visitors with concerns about their physical abilities are encouraged to speak with the tour operator prior to booking to ensure the tour is a good fit for their needs.
Weather and Castle Access
Despite potential inclement weather, the tour remains an outdoor experience, with the guide leading the group through the castle’s complex as originally planned.
Access to the interior castle buildings, however, may be limited or restricted during the tour due to operational considerations set by the castle authorities. Visitors should be prepared to brave the elements, as the tour will continue regardless of rain or wind.
While the tour focuses on the exterior grounds and key landmarks, guests won’t be able to explore the castle’s interior spaces on this particular excursion. The guide will provide detailed commentary and insights, ensuring an engaging and informative experience despite any weather-related restrictions.
Booking and Cancellation
Guests can secure their spot on the guided walking tour by booking their entry ticket in advance, which they’ll receive confirmation of at the time of booking.
The tour has a minimum number of travelers required, so if the minimum isn’t met, guests may be offered a different date or experience.
Cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund provided. This flexibility allows guests to adjust their plans as needed.
With confirmation and cancellation policies in place, guests can book the Edinburgh Castle walking tour with confidence, knowing their experience is secured and they can receive a refund if their plans change.
Additional Tour Information
The tour includes specific stops assigned by the castle authorities, ensuring visitors get the most out of their Edinburgh Castle experience.
Bags over 30L in volume aren’t allowed inside the castle, so guests should plan accordingly.
Visitors should also keep in mind that the castle is a complex of buildings, not a single structure, as they explore this historic site.
The tour provides:
- Access to specific areas of the castle as determined by the authorities.
- Guidance on size restrictions for bags and belongings.
- Insight into the castle’s architectural layout as a multi-building complex.
This additional information helps set expectations and ensures a smooth, enjoyable tour of Edinburgh Castle.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour: Mysteries, Murder and Legends
- The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour in English
- Original Harry Potter Locations Tour in Edinburgh
- Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands With Lunch From Edinburgh
- Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe Day Trip From Edinburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Are Guided Tours Available Each Day?
Guided tours are typically available multiple times throughout the day. The frequency can vary, so it’s best to check the tour provider’s schedule when booking to ensure availability at the desired time.
Can the Tour Be Done Independently Without a Guide?
The tour cannot be done independently without a guide. The guided walking tour is required to gain entry to Edinburgh Castle, as the castle authorities have assigned specific stops for the tour.
Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed Inside the Castle?
Photography and video recording are generally allowed inside the castle, but visitors should check for any restrictions. Some areas or activities may have specific rules, so it’s best to ask a staff member for guidance upon arrival.
Is There a Recommended Attire for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Visitors should dress for the outdoor activity and be prepared for any potential changes in the weather during the tour.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
Yes, the tour offers discounts for students and seniors. Travelers can save on the regular tour price by presenting valid student or senior ID at the time of check-in.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Private Edinburgh Full Day Tour
- Stone & Story: Rosslyn Chapel & Melrose Abbey Private Day Trip
- Scottish Highland Games Day Tour From Edinburgh
- Edinburgh: Gothic Old Town Exploration Game
- Edinburgh Custom Private Tour With a Local, See the City Unscripted
- A Taste of Scotland Full-Day Private Tour
- Loch Ness Day Tour From Edinburgh or Glasgow
- Edinburgh: Walking Tour / Treasure Hunt (App Led)
- Edinburgh Delicious Donut Adventure by Underground Donut Tour
- Edinburgh: Private Guided Walking Tour
- Edinburgh 3 Hour Walking Tour With an Italian Tour Guide
- From Edinburgh: 8-Day Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 Tour
- From Edinburgh/Glasgow: 3-Day Isle of Skye & Highland Tour
- Edinburgh: Old Town, a Self-Guided Secret City Game
- Harry Potter Tour in Edinburgh
Final Words
The guided walking tour of Edinburgh Castle is a comprehensive and enriching experience. Visitors will explore the castle’s grounds, learn about its storied past, and avoid the hassle of purchasing separate admission tickets.
While the tour isn’t fully wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for travelers with a moderate level of physical fitness. Guests should be prepared to brave the elements, as the tour remains primarily outdoors.
