Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, is a must-visit destination for castle enthusiasts. While the castle does not offer a specific discount for Blue Light Card holders, there are several other discounts and special offers available for certain groups. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various options and help you plan your visit to Edinburgh Castle.
Edinburgh Castle: Discounts and Special Offers
Armed Forces
Current members of the British Armed Forces can enjoy free entry to Edinburgh Castle, as well as Stirling Castle and Fort George, upon presenting a valid MOD 90 card.
Carers
Accompanying carers for visitors with disabilities receive free entry to Edinburgh Castle, limited to two carers per transaction.
Young Scot
Holders of a Young Scot card can visit Edinburgh Castle for £1, but they must make an online booking and show their valid card on arrival.
Historic Scotland Members
Members of Historic Scotland get free entry to Edinburgh Castle and other Historic Scotland sites, but they must make an online booking to guarantee entry.
Explorer Pass
Holders of an Explorer Pass also get free entry to Edinburgh Castle and other Historic Scotland sites, but they must make an online booking to guarantee entry.
Standard Admission Prices
For those who do not fall under the categories mentioned above, the standard admission prices for Edinburgh Castle are as follows:
| Ticket Type | Online Price | Walk-up Price |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (16-64yrs) | £19.50 | £22.00 |
| Concession (65yrs+) | £15.50 | £17.60 |
| Child (7-15yrs) | £11.40 | £13.20 |
| Family (1 adult, 2 children) | £38.50 | £43.50 |
| Family (2 adults, 2 children) | £56.00 | £63.50 |
| Family (2 adults, 3 children) | £66.50 | £75.00 |
It’s important to note that online prices are generally cheaper than walk-up prices, so it’s recommended to book your tickets in advance if possible.
Accessibility and Facilities
Edinburgh Castle is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive experience for all visitors. The castle offers a range of facilities and services to ensure that everyone can enjoy their visit, including:
- Wheelchair-accessible routes and lifts
- Accessible toilets and changing facilities
- Hearing loops and audio guides
- Assistance dogs welcome
- Sensory backpacks available for loan
Visitors with disabilities or additional needs are encouraged to review the castle’s Access Guide to plan their visit and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Plan Your Visit
To make the most of your visit to Edinburgh Castle, it’s recommended to plan ahead. Consider the following tips:
- Book Tickets in Advance: Booking your tickets online can save you money and help you avoid long queues at the entrance.
- Check Opening Hours: Edinburgh Castle is open daily, but the opening hours may vary depending on the season. Be sure to check the website for the latest information.
- Explore the Castle’s History: Take some time to learn about the rich history of Edinburgh Castle, which has played a significant role in Scotland’s past.
- Allow Enough Time: The castle is a large and complex site, so allow plenty of time to explore all the different areas and exhibits.
- Consider a Guided Tour: Joining a guided tour can provide valuable insights and help you make the most of your visit.
Conclusion
While Edinburgh Castle does not offer a specific discount for Blue Light Card holders, there are still plenty of opportunities to save on your visit. Whether you’re a member of the Armed Forces, a Young Scot, or a Historic Scotland member, be sure to take advantage of the available discounts and special offers. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and accessible facilities, Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit destination for castle enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.
References:
- Blue Light Card – Days Out Discounts. Blue Light Card. Retrieved from https://www.bluelightcard.co.uk/days-out.php
- Can I use either Blue Light Card or Reward For Forces Veterans card to get discounted entry to Royal Yacht Britannia?. TripAdvisor. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/FAQ_Answers-g186525-d187652-t9887153-Can_I_use_either_Blue_Light_Card_or_Reward_For.html
- Free NHS and Blue Light Card Event Tickets. Blue Light Card. Retrieved from https://www.bluelightcard.co.uk/freenhsandbluelightcardtickets.php
- Access Guide. Edinburgh Castle. Retrieved from https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/plan-your-visit/access-guide
- Tickets. Edinburgh Castle. Retrieved from https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/plan-your-visit/tickets