Edinburgh Castle
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Overview
This historic stronghold stands on the precipitous crag of Castle Rock. One of the oldest parts is the 11th-century chapel of the saintly Queen Margaret, but most of the present castle evolved later, during its stormy history of sieges and wars, and was altered again in Victorian times. The Scottish crown and other royal regalia are displayed in the Crown Room. Also notable is the Scottish National War Memorial.
Ratings & awards
Green Tourism Gold
Features
- Opening Times
- Open all year
- Opening Times: Open all year daily, Apr-Sep 9.30-6; Oct-Mar 9.30-5; 1 Jan, 11-5 (last admission 1hr before closing). Closed 25-26 Dec
- Facilities
- Parking nearby
- Cafe
About the area
Edinburgh is one of Britain’s most spectacular cities and both Old and New Towns have UNESCO World Heritage status. At its heart, the Old Town is a treasury of architecture stretching back to medieval times with its labyrinth of narrow lanes (‘wynds’ or ‘closes’).
Nearby places to stay
View all (8)
Hotel
Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
- Family rooms: 6
- Free TV
- WiFi available
- Lift available
Nearby places to stay
The Witchery
Originally built in 1595, The Witchery is situated in a historic building at the gates of Edinburgh Castle. The two luxurious and theatrically decorated suites, known as the Inner Sanct...
100 Princes Street
100 Princes Street is the former Royal Overseas League HQ and has been wonderfully reimagined into a luxury townhouse by Red Carnation Hotels. Situated in the heart of Edinburgh the pro...
Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
This long-established hotel lies in the heart of the city overlooking Charlotte Square Gardens. Public areas are inviting and include relaxing lounges, a choice of bars (in the evening)...
The Caledonian Edinburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton
Set against the magnificent backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, The Caledonian is a former Victorian railway hotel built for the steam age in 1903. It hasn't lost any of the charm, character ...
Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa
Sheraton Grand Hotel boasts one of the best spas in Scotland – the external top-floor, infinity hydro pool is definitely worth a look, while the thermal suite provides a unique venue fo...
The Rutland
The Rutland enjoys a prominent position on the West End of Edinburgh , looking up to the castle but also along Princes Street and down into the New Town with glimpses of the River Forth...
InterContinental Edinburgh The George
This long-established hotel enjoys a city centre location. The splendid public areas have many original features such as intricate plasterwork, a marble-floored foyer and chandeliers. T...
Old Waverley Hotel
Occupying a commanding position opposite Sir Walter Scott's famous monument roughly halfway along Princes Street, the Old Waverley Hotel lies right in the heart of the city. With this a...
