Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, offers a range of accessibility features to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for visitors with disabilities. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key details regarding disabled parking and other accessibility options available at this historic site.
Disabled Parking at Edinburgh Castle
Parking Availability
The Castle Esplanade offers a limited number of designated parking spaces for visitors with Blue Badges. These spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be booked in advance by contacting the castle’s admissions team.
Booking Disabled Parking
To reserve a disabled parking spot, you can call the Edinburgh Castle admissions team at +44 (0)131 225 9846 or email them at ecadmissions@hes.scot. It’s recommended to make your booking as early as possible to ensure availability.
Alternative Parking Options
If the designated disabled parking spaces are unavailable, the nearest car park is the Castle Terrace NCP. Additionally, there are on-street parking zones in the vicinity of the castle that visitors can utilize.
Accessibility Features at Edinburgh Castle
Mobility Vehicle
Edinburgh Castle provides a mobility vehicle service to transport visitors with disabilities from the esplanade to the top of the castle. This service can accommodate most wheelchairs, motorized wheelchairs, and mobility scooters. Visitors can arrange this service with the staff at the castle entrance.
Lifts and Ramps
The castle has installed lifts and ramps to facilitate access to various areas, including the Crown Jewels and The Great Hall. These features ensure that visitors with mobility challenges can explore the castle’s key attractions.
Audio Guides
Audio guides are available in multiple languages and can be downloaded onto personal devices. Print versions of the audio guides are also available in large print and Open Dyslexic large print formats.
Accessible Toilets
Adapted toilets are located near the ticket office and in Crown Square, providing accessible facilities for visitors with disabilities.
Staff Assistance
The castle staff are generally helpful and willing to assist visitors with disabilities, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience.
Additional Accessibility Information
Carers’ Tickets
Visitors with disabilities can bring accompanying carers who will receive free admission to the castle.
Visual Stories
The Edinburgh Castle website offers visual stories to help autistic visitors prepare for their visit and familiarize themselves with the castle’s layout and attractions.
Ear Defenders
A limited number of ear defenders are available for visitors who may need them, particularly those with sensory sensitivities.
Key Contacts
For any inquiries or to book disabled parking, you can reach the Edinburgh Castle admissions team at:
- Phone: +44 (0)131 225 9846
- Email:
ecadmissions@hes.scot - Website: www.edinburghcastle.scot