The Ultimate Guide to Edinburgh Castle Concert Entrance

For concert attendees at Edinburgh Castle, navigating the venue can be a unique and memorable experience. From the nearest car park to the security restrictions and accessibility options, this comprehensive guide covers all the essential details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Nearest Car Park

The closest car park to Edinburgh Castle for concert attendees is the Castle Terrace NCP. This multi-story car park is conveniently located just a short walk from the castle’s esplanade, making it the ideal choice for those arriving by car.

Security Restrictions

To ensure the safety and security of all visitors, certain items are not permitted within the castle grounds. Suitcases and large rucksacks (30L or over) are not allowed, so it’s important to plan accordingly and pack light.

Access and Approach

Accessing the castle for a concert involves a few key steps:

The Esplanade: Visitors will cross the esplanade, a wide area of smooth tarmac with a gentle uphill gradient of 5 degrees. The esplanade is approximately 110 meters long.
The Curved Route: From the esplanade, the castle entrance is reached via a steep, curved route. This section is 15 degrees at its steepest point and covers a distance of around 350 meters from the entrance to the top level at Crown Square.

Concert Venue

The concert venue is located on the Esplanade, which is transformed into a unique performance space each summer. The only access to the venue is via Castlehill, a steep, cobbled street.

Ticket Information

Tickets for Edinburgh Castle concerts are in high demand, especially during the peak summer months. To ensure entry, it’s recommended to book tickets online in advance. Various ticket types are available, including standard admission, flexi-tickets, guided tours, and afternoon tea experiences.

Accessibility

Edinburgh Castle is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all visitors. Here are some of the accessibility options available:

Mobility Vehicle: A mobility vehicle to transport visitors with accessibility requirements to Crown Square is available upon request.
Wheelchairs: Manual wheelchairs can be borrowed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Audio Guides: Audio guides in multiple languages can be hired from the audio booth.

General Information

Opening Hours: Edinburgh Castle is open daily from 9:30 am.
Facilities: The castle offers a range of facilities, including adapted toilets, the Portcullis Gift Shop, and the Redcoat Café.

Contact Information

For any inquiries or assistance, visitors can reach out to the following:

Ticketing: For online ticketing services, contact ticketing@hes.scot or call during office hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, except UK public holidays).
General Information: For general information, call the Information Point at 0131 225 9846.

Reference Links

By understanding the key details and planning ahead, concert attendees can ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience at the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned castle enthusiast, this guide will help you navigate the unique challenges and make the most of your time at this historic venue.