No, National Trust members do not receive a discount or free entry at Edinburgh Castle.
Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, attracting millions of visitors each year. As a popular tourist destination, many people wonder if they can use their National Trust membership to gain free or discounted entry to the castle. Unfortunately, the answer is no.
Understanding the Difference Between National Trust and Historic Scotland
The National Trust is a charity organization that manages and preserves historic properties, landscapes, and natural habitats across the United Kingdom. It has its own membership program that provides members with free entry to National Trust sites and discounts on various services.
On the other hand, Edinburgh Castle is managed by Historic Scotland, which is a separate organization from the National Trust. Historic Scotland is an agency of the Scottish Government responsible for the management and promotion of Scotland’s historic environment.
What Does the Historic Scotland Membership Offer?
While National Trust members cannot use their cards at Edinburgh Castle, Historic Scotland does offer its own membership program. The Historic Scotland membership provides the following benefits:
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Free entry to Historic Scotland properties: This includes Edinburgh Castle, as well as over 300 other historic sites across Scotland, such as Stirling Castle, Linlithgow Palace, and Urquhart Castle.
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Discounts on admission fees: Members receive discounts on admission fees for non-members visiting Historic Scotland properties.
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Exclusive events and activities: Members have access to exclusive events, talks, and activities organized by Historic Scotland.
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Magazine subscription: Members receive a subscription to the Historic Scotland magazine, which provides insights into Scotland’s rich history and cultural heritage.
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Discounts on gift shop purchases: Members can enjoy discounts on purchases made at the gift shops of Historic Scotland properties.
The Historic Scotland membership is available in various tiers, with prices ranging from £47 for an individual membership to £77 for a family membership.
Visiting Edinburgh Castle without a National Trust Card
If you don’t have a Historic Scotland membership, you can still visit Edinburgh Castle by purchasing a standard admission ticket. The current admission fees for Edinburgh Castle are as follows:
| Ticket Type | Adult | Concession | Child (5-15 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| On the Day | £19.50 | £17.00 | £11.50 |
| Online Advance | £17.50 | £15.00 | £9.50 |
It’s important to note that the castle can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. To avoid long queues, it’s recommended to purchase your tickets online in advance.
Exploring Other National Trust Properties in Scotland
While your National Trust card may not be valid at Edinburgh Castle, there are plenty of other National Trust properties in Scotland that you can visit and enjoy. Some of the notable National Trust sites in Scotland include:
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Culzean Castle and Country Park: A stunning 18th-century castle and country park located on the Ayrshire coast.
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Glencoe: A breathtaking valley in the Scottish Highlands, known for its dramatic landscapes and rich history.
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Falkland Palace: A Renaissance palace and former royal residence in the town of Falkland, Fife.
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Craigievar Castle: A fairytale-like castle in Aberdeenshire, known for its pink granite exterior.
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Haddo House: A grand country house and estate in Aberdeenshire, with beautiful gardens and parklands.
To make the most of your National Trust membership in Scotland, be sure to research and plan your visits to these and other National Trust properties.
Conclusion
In summary, while your National Trust card cannot be used for free or discounted entry at Edinburgh Castle, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy your membership in Scotland. By understanding the differences between the National Trust and Historic Scotland, you can make the most of your travels and explore the rich history and natural beauty that Scotland has to offer.