Getting to Edinburgh Castle can be a breeze if you know the right transportation options. As a Castles Touring Enthusiast, I’m excited to share with you the various bus and public transport choices available to reach this iconic Scottish landmark.
Bus Options for Reaching Edinburgh Castle
Airlink 100 Express Bus
The Airlink 100 Express Bus is a convenient option for travelers arriving at Edinburgh Airport. This bus runs directly from the airport to the city center, reaching Waverley Bridge in just 25 minutes. From there, you’ll need to walk uphill to the castle, but the journey is well worth it.
Local Buses
If you’re already in the city, look for buses with the Mound or George IV Bridge on their route. These local buses will drop you off close to the castle, though you’ll still need to walk uphill to reach the entrance.
Hop-on, Hop-off Bus Tours
Some of the popular hop-on, hop-off bus tours in Edinburgh make a stop near the castle. This can be a great option if you want to combine sightseeing with your castle visit. You can check the tour schedules at edinburghtour.com.
Tram Options for Reaching Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Trams
The Edinburgh Tram system is another convenient way to reach the castle. Trams leave the airport every 7 minutes and take around 30 minutes to reach Princes Street, which is just a short walk away from the castle.
Tram from Edinburgh St. Andrew Square to Edinburgh Princes Street
If you’re already in the city center, you can take the tram from Edinburgh St. Andrew Square to Edinburgh Princes Street. This short 3-minute ride costs between $3 and $10 and will bring you close to the castle.
Walking and Taxi Options for Reaching Edinburgh Castle
Walking
The distance from Edinburgh bus Station to Edinburgh Castle is approximately 4,360 feet, which takes around 18 minutes to walk. This can be a pleasant option if you’re up for a bit of exercise and want to take in the sights along the way.
Taxi
If you prefer a more direct and comfortable journey, a taxi ride from Edinburgh bus Station to Edinburgh Castle takes only about 3 minutes and costs between $8 and $10.
Accessibility and Parking for Edinburgh Castle
Mobility Vehicle
Edinburgh Castle offers a mobility vehicle service to assist visitors with accessibility needs. This vehicle can take you from the castle entrance to Crown Square, though the service is not available between 12:15 pm and 1:15 pm due to the firing of the One o’Clock Gun.
Wheelchair Accessibility
The castle has adapted toilets and step-free access to the Portcullis Gift Shop. Audio guides are also available in various languages to enhance your visit.
Parking
There are a limited number of parking spaces available for ticket holders with accessibility requirements on the Castle Esplanade, which are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The nearest car park is the Castle Terrace NCP.
Contact Information
If you have any further questions or need assistance, you can reach out to the following:
- Edinburgh Castle Information Point: 0131 225 9846
- Edinburgh Trams: 0131 475 0177, info@edinburghtrams.com, edinburghtrams.com
- Lothian Buses: 0131 554 4494, contactless@lothianbuses.co.uk, lothianbuses.com
As a Castles Touring Enthusiast, I hope this comprehensive guide on how to get to Edinburgh Castle by bus has been helpful. Whether you choose the express bus, local buses, trams, or even a leisurely walk, you’re sure to have a memorable experience exploring this iconic Scottish landmark. Happy travels!
References
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/plan-your-visit/getting-here
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/FAQ_Answers-g186525-d187653-t9398444-Does_a_bus_take_you_up_the_hill_to_the_castle.html
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/plan-your-visit/access-guide
- https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Edinburgh-bus-Station/Edinburgh-Castle
- https://moovitapp.com/index/en-gb/public_transportation-Edinburgh_Castle-Scotland-site_8156861-402