Visiting the iconic Edinburgh Castle can be a highlight of any trip to Scotland, but the long queues at the entrance can be a daunting prospect. As a Castles Touring Enthusiast, I’ve learned a few tricks to help you avoid the crowds and make the most of your visit to this historic landmark.
Strategies to Beat the Edinburgh Castle Queue
1. Pre-book Your Tickets
One of the best ways to skip the queue at Edinburgh Castle is to pre-book your tickets online. This not only guarantees your entry but also allows you to choose a specific time slot, ensuring you can plan your visit around the castle’s busiest periods.
2. Arrive Early
If you’re not able to pre-book, your next best option is to arrive at the castle as early as possible, ideally before 9:30 am. This will allow you to beat the crowds and enjoy a relatively queue-free experience, especially during the peak summer months.
3. Avoid Peak Hours
The One o’clock Gun firing at 1 pm is a popular event that draws large crowds to the castle. To avoid the long queues, plan your visit for before or after this time. Weekdays are also generally less crowded than weekends, so consider visiting on a Tuesday or Wednesday if your schedule allows.
4. Explore the Shoulder Season
If you have flexibility in your travel plans, consider visiting Edinburgh Castle during the shoulder season, which typically includes the months of May, June, and September. These periods often see fewer visitors, resulting in shorter queues and a more enjoyable experience.
5. Utilize Flexi-Tickets
Edinburgh Castle offers Flexi-Tickets, which allow you to visit the castle within a week of your selected date without needing to pre-book a specific timeslot. This can be a great option if you’re unsure of your exact schedule or want to have more flexibility during your trip.
6. Take Advantage of Special Offers
Keep an eye out for any special offers or discounts that can help you save money and potentially provide priority access to the castle. For example, the Explorer Pass offers discounted admission and skip-the-line access to various attractions in Edinburgh, including the castle.
7. Follow a Guided Itinerary
Edinburgh Castle offers a 1-hour itinerary that highlights the main attractions and can help you see the key sights quickly. By following this itinerary, you can maximize your time and minimize the time spent waiting in queues.
Key Details about Edinburgh Castle
Opening Hours
- The castle is open from 9:30 am daily, with last entry one hour before closing time.
- Closing times vary by season: 6 pm from April to September and 5 pm the rest of the year.
Admission Fees
- Adult (16-59 yrs): £16.50
- Child (5-15 yrs): £9.90
- Concession (60 yrs+ and unemployed): £13.20
Contact Information
For ticketing services, you can email ticketing@hes.scot or call during business hours (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, except UK public holidays).
By following these tips and strategies, you can enjoy a hassle-free visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its rich history and stunning architecture. Happy castle touring!
References:
- https://www.waitamoment.co.uk/museums-monuments/edinburgh-castle/edinburgh-castle
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/see-and-do/tours-guides-and-itineraries/just-an-hour
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/plan-your-visit/tickets
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g186525-d187653-r823763836-Edinburgh_Castle-Edinburgh_Scotland.html