Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic and historically significant attractions in Scotland. As a castles touring enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to know that the admission process to this magnificent fortress is straightforward and offers various options to suit your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the details of Edinburgh Castle admission, including pricing, ticket types, discounts, and essential information to help you plan your visit.
Admission Prices
Visiting Edinburgh Castle comes with a range of admission prices, catering to different age groups and group sizes. Here’s a breakdown of the current admission fees:
| Ticket Type | Online Price | Walk-up Price |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (16-64 years) | £19.50 | £22.00 |
| Concession (65+ years and unemployed) | £15.50 | £17.60 |
| Child (7-15 years) | £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 |
As you can see, booking your tickets online can provide a significant discount compared to the walk-up prices. It’s highly recommended to purchase your tickets in advance to secure your entry and take advantage of the best available rates.
Types of Admission Tickets
Edinburgh Castle offers a variety of ticket options to cater to different needs and preferences. Let’s explore the different types of admission tickets:
- Standard Admission Tickets: These are the basic tickets for entry to the castle.
- Flexi Tickets: These allow one entry to the castle within a 7-day period, with no need to pre-book a timeslot.
- Partner Organisation Tickets: These are for members of English Heritage, Cadw, Manx, Young Scot, STGA, SITOA, and current members of the British Armed Forces.
- Guided Tour and Admission Tickets: These include a guided tour of the castle, providing you with a deeper understanding of its rich history.
- Afternoon Tea Experience: This package includes admission to the castle and an afternoon tea service, allowing you to indulge in a unique and memorable experience.
Discounts and Special Offers
Edinburgh Castle offers several discounts and special offers to make your visit more accessible and affordable. Here are some of the available options:
- Historic Scotland Members: Free entry, but online booking is required.
- English Heritage, Manx and Cadw Members: Half-price entry in the first year and free entry for renewal and life members.
- Young Scot Card Holders: £1 entry.
- Carers: Free entry for carers accompanying visitors with disabilities.
- British Armed Forces Members: Free entry for serving members.
Be sure to check the official website or inquire at the castle’s entrance to see if you qualify for any of these discounts or special offers.
Opening Times
Edinburgh Castle is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown of the opening times:
- April 1 to September 30: 9:30am to 6pm (last entry 5pm)
- October 1 to December 23: 9:30am to 5pm (last entry 4pm)
- December 24: 9:30am to 4pm (last entry 3pm)
- December 25 and 26: Castle closed
- December 27 to 31: 9:30am to 5pm (last entry 4pm)
- January 1: 11am to 5pm (last entry 4pm)
- January 2 to March 31: 9:30am to 5pm (last entry 4pm)
It’s important to note that the castle may close due to adverse weather or other reasons beyond control, so it’s always a good idea to check the official website or contact the castle before your visit.
Additional Information
Here are some additional details to keep in mind when planning your visit to Edinburgh Castle:
- Booking: Tickets often sell out in advance, especially during the summer months. Booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended to secure your entry and get the best available prices.
- Duration of Visit: It is recommended to set aside at least 2 hours to see the main attractions at Edinburgh Castle, but you may want to allocate more time if you plan to explore the castle in-depth or participate in any guided tours.
- Independent Museums: The opening times for independent museums within the castle may vary, so be sure to check the schedule before your visit.
- Special Events: The castle may close due to adverse weather or other reasons beyond control. It’s always a good idea to check the official website or contact the castle if you’re planning a visit, especially if you’re making a long journey.
Contact Information
If you have any questions or need further assistance with your Edinburgh Castle admission, you can reach out to the castle’s ticketing services:
- Online Ticketing Services: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (except UK public holidays)
- Email: ticketing@hes.scot
Reference Links
- Edinburgh Castle Opening Times
- Edinburgh Castle Official Website
- Edinburgh Castle Ticketing Services
- Historic Environment Scotland – Edinburgh Castle Prices and Times
- Edinburgh Castle Ticket Information
As a castles touring enthusiast, Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit destination in Scotland. With this comprehensive guide to Edinburgh Castle admission, you can now plan your visit with confidence, ensuring you make the most of your time and budget. Happy exploring!