Edinburgh Castle was home to kings and queens for many centuries. Queen Margaret (who was later made a saint) died here in 1093. The chapel built in her honour by her son, King David I, is Edinburgh’s oldest building. St Margaret’s Chapel still hosts weddings and christenings today.
https://www.edinburghcastle.scot › the-castle › history
. Castle Terrace NCP is the nearest car park. Blue Badge holders can request one of the limited number of accessible parking spaces on Castle Esplanade on a first come, first served basis.
Edinburgh Castle Terrace compared to other car parks nearby
1 hour
£4.95
6 to 7 hours
£34.65
7 to 24 hours
£35.95
Evening rate 1700-2359
£8.95
App 1 hour
£3.95
Is there any free parking in Edinburgh?
The good news is that, beyond the Centre, parking is largely free in Edinburgh. The bad news is that because it’s free, it can be a bit tricky to find a parking space sometimes. Once you’re about a third of the way down Leith Walk, restrictions don’t apply. This is good news for anyone visiting the Shore!
How hard is the walk up to Edinburgh Castle?
Takes about 10/15 minutes at a slow pace. It isn’t very steep. There’s the views as you head up but nothing along the way.
Does Edinburgh Castle have parking? – Related Questions
How much time do I need at Edinburgh Castle?
Opening times
You should set aside at least 2 hours to see the main attractions at Edinburgh Castle. Opening times for the independent museums at the castle may vary.
What is the best time of day to visit Edinburgh Castle?
As many visitors (especially those coming from cruise ships) plan to visit the castle first thing in the morning, there can be considerable crowds at opening time. For a (slightly) quieter visit, going in after 1pm is recommended.
How steep is the road to Edinburgh Castle?
Approach to site
The castle is reached across the esplanade – a wide area of smooth tarmac, with an uphill gradient of 5 degrees.
Count all 70 steps on the most direct route to the summit of the Castle Rock. This great flight of stairs once formed the original entrance to the castle. The gentler alternative route that winds up and around the cobbled hill was created in the 1600s for moving heavy guns.
How steep is the Royal Mile?
The route runs from an elevation of 42 metres (138 ft) above sea level at the palace to 109 metres (358 ft) at the castle, giving an average gradient of 4.1%.
Can you walk around Edinburgh Castle?
The castle is built on a rocky hill you can’t walk around the outside. over a year ago. Lots to see, so buy the ticket and enjoy!
Is it worth paying to go inside Edinburgh Castle?
Yes!While the tickets are not cheap, you do get good value for your money at Edinburgh castle. The castle has many different buildings that are worth seeing and the view from Edinburgh Castle may be the best in the city.
Can you walk around Edinburgh Castle without paying?
At the end of the Royal Mile is Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic monuments dominating the Edinburgh skyline. Entry to the castle is not free, but you can walk up to it and take in the fantastic views.
How long does it take to go round Edinburgh Castle?
Speed demons can tour the castle in an hour or less. Most people should budget two hours for the entire visit. For more information, visit the official Edinburgh Castle website.
Climbing to the top of Arthur’s Seat and back takes about two hours, or you can choose a low-level, easier option.
Do you need a guide for Edinburgh Castle?
Do I Need A Guide? Well the good news is that your ticket comes with an optional guided tour of the castle. You’ll be guided by an expert that knows everything there is to know about Edinburgh Castle.
How expensive is the Edinburgh Castle?
Tickets for Edinburgh Castle cost £15.50 for visitors aged between 16 and 60, £12.40 for visitors aged over 60, and £11.50 for children aged from 5 to 15.
Can you just turn up at Edinburgh Castle?
You should set aside at least 2 hours to see the main attractions at Edinburgh Castle. Opening times for the independent museums at the castle may vary. The castle is closed on 25 and 26 December.
Castle opening times.
Opens
Closes
1 October to 31 March
9.30am
5pm (last entry 4pm)
1 more row
Can I use my National Trust card at Edinburgh Castle?
Using your card in Scotland
You can also use your card to visit heritage sites in Scotland, looked after by the National Trust for Scotland.
How long does Edinburgh Zoo take?
The Zoo covers a large area with some hilly aspects. Certainly a good 3 to 4 hours allows you time to see everything and grab some refreshments.
Is parking free at Edinburgh Zoo?
Car parking – FREE until Wednesday 31 August
All car park users will need to take a ticket from the barriers on arrival and have this validated to exit the car park without paying full price (£10) at the machine. Find out more here.